It's been announced that Hirosue Ryoko and SMAP's Inagaki Goro will star in the upcoming movie "Sakura, Futatabi no Kanako" as married couple.

The movie is based on Niitsu Kiyomi's novel "Futatabi no Kanako", and it will be directed by Kurimura Minoru who previously received the NETPAC award at the Moscow International Film Festival with his debut film "Meshi to Otome." They are also planning to show the film at various film festivals around the world.

Hirosue's role is named 'Yoko', while Inagaki will play her husband 'Nobuki.'

After losing their little daughter 'Kanako' due to an accident, 'Yoko' strongly wishes to meet the reincarnation of 'Kanako'. �Grief eventually drives 'Yoko' to start taking care of the deceased daughter as she claims she can see 'Kanako'. Though 'Nobuki' wants to help 'Yoko', he also feel irritated by his wife who cannot accept reality and refuses to look forward. �One day, 'Yoko' encounters a pregnant high school girl 'Masami' (played by Fukuda Mayuko), who has decided to be a single mother, and believes firmly that the baby must be the reincarnation of 'Kanako'.

Hirosue commented, "This is a movie about a miracle that is led by the power of continuing to live even after painful and sad things happen as well as the power of life. I hope that this can courage many people." Inagaki also commented, "I was at a loss about playing the role, but because of the support from the director and the staff members, I was able to portray it while understanding the importance of life and the joy and sorrow of living. It is a wonderful movie that made me think it's not useless to believe in miracles."

Along with Hirosue, Inagaki, and Fukuda, Johnny's Jr.�Takada Sho and Enami Kyoko will also make appearances. Takada will play a high school boy 'Naoya' who watches 'Masami', and Enami will play an owner of a�secondhand bookstore who has connections to all the characters in the movie.

The shooting for the movie started in Ashikaga, Tochigi in spring of this year, and it is currently undergoing editing. You will be able to enjoy the protagonists' delicate acting as well as the beautiful sights of cherry blossoms in all their glory in Japan.

"Sakura, Futatabi no Kanako" is scheduled for release on April 6, 2013.

Source & Image: eiga.com