Where can you watch “Oi, O-Ei” for free?
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Starring Masami Nagasawa, with co-stars Kaito Takahashi and Masatoshi Nagase, this much-discussed title is on the way.
This period drama, which portrays the hidden talent and life of Hokusai’s daughter, O-Ei, has finally been adapted into a film.
This article clearly explains how to watch the movie “Oi, O-Ei” for free or at a bargain price.
We also include predictions for platforms like U-NEXT, Hulu, and TSUTAYA DISCAS, plus a subscription comparison table.
“It’s still before the theatrical release, but which service is likely to stream it?” “From when will it be available?”
We’ll answer those questions properly, too.
Read on and you’re sure to find tips to watch “Oi, O-Ei” in the most cost-effective way!
I thought O-Ei was the goddess of cheering, kuma.
Oh, that’s not it, kuma! She’s Hokusai’s daughter, kuma!?
This makes the blood of the Video-Watching Bear (Guma) boil, kuma~!
What is Oi, O-Ei?
“Oi, O-Ei” is a historical drama film starring Hokusai’s daughter, the Edo-period ukiyo-e artist O-Ei.
It is based on the classic manga of the same name by Hinako Sugiura, which has enjoyed enduring popularity since the 1980s.
Scheduled for nationwide release on Friday, October 17, 2025, the film shines a light on the little-known talent of Katsushika O-Ei and depicts her passion for art, her inner conflicts, and her deep relationship with her father, Hokusai.
The lead is played by one of Japan’s foremost actresses, Masami Nagasawa, with popular actor Kaito Takahashi (King & Prince) and veteran actor Masatoshi Nagase also in the cast.
The director is Shinji Azuma, known for “Shabondama” and “Yaeko no Humming.”
The direction, which focuses not only on her skill as a painter but also on how she lived as a woman in her era, has become a hot topic.
About the original manga “Oi, O-Ei”
The original work is by manga artist Hinako Sugiura, known for her faithful depictions of Edo customs and characters, and it carefully portrays the warmth and chic sensibilities of Edo culture.
The story is based on anecdotes about the real O-Ei, depicting the world of ukiyo-e and her complex relationship with her father, Hokusai, through her eyes.
As a forerunner among female artists who are often re-evaluated from a modern perspective, O-Ei’s way of life draws attention.
The film faithfully reproduces that expressive power, with meticulous attention to detail in art direction, costumes, and sets.
“Oi, O-Ei” tells the story of a “forgotten genius female painter” who lived at the intersection of history and art.
Pay attention to Masami Nagasawa’s delicate yet passionate portrayal of O-Ei.
Synopsis and film details for Oi, O-Ei
“Oi, O-Ei” is the story of the tumultuous life of O-Ei, born as the daughter of the genius ukiyo-e artist Hokusai.
Despite her exceptional talent as an artist, her name was rarely recognized in the male-dominated world.
However, even while overshadowed by her father, the film carefully depicts how she stays true to her own expression.
Masami Nagasawa plays the protagonist, O-Ei.
She delicately portrays a complex woman who, while sometimes rebelling, respects her father and strives to forge her own path as a painter.
The story follows O-Ei, who continues to paint despite being shaken by Hokusai’s fame, until she is eventually recognized by the world as an artist in her own right—an inspiring work.
Characters and cast
- Katsushika O-Ei (Protagonist): Masami Nagasawa
- Keisai Eisen (Zenjiro): Kaito Takahashi (King & Prince)
- Katsushika Hokusai: Masatoshi Nagase
- Narration: Yayako Uchida
- Director: Shinji Azuma
Basic film info
- Original work: “Oi, O-Ei” by Hinako Sugiura
- Genre: History / Biography / Drama
- Release date: Friday, October 17, 2025
- Distributor: Tokyo Theatres
- Running time: TBA (to be updated at release)
This is recommended for those interested in Edo culture and ukiyo-e, or who are moved by artists’ struggles and growth.
The film delves deeply into the life of “O-Ei as an individual creator,” not just “Hokusai’s daughter.”
Watch for the fusion of historical context and artistic direction.
Highlights to know before you watch
“Oi, O-Ei” is packed with qualities that go far beyond a simple biopic.
While historical in subject, it embraces themes that resonate today, carefully portraying art and a woman’s way of life—an impressive feat.
Here are three key points to keep in mind before watching.
1. Nagasawa’s new frontier as O-Ei
Masami Nagasawa’s O-Ei possesses both noble resolve—devoting her life to expression—and deep anguish.
Unlike many of her bright and cheerful roles, the figure of a painter who holds inner conflict yet sticks to her convictions brings out a new side of her as an actress.
2. Overwhelming art direction of Edo culture and ukiyo-e
The film applies exhaustive historical research to everything from Edo townscapes and studio sets to kimono patterns and props.
The textures of works painted by O-Ei and Hokusai are recreated with CG and live-action compositing, making them feel almost real.
It truly offers a visual beauty worthy of being called a “moving ukiyo-e,” guiding viewers into the aesthetics of Edo.
3. The depth of the parent–child relationship with Hokusai
Masatoshi Nagase’s Katsushika Hokusai and his relationship with his daughter, O-Ei, are also unmissable.
Though they clash, the two deepen their bond through the shared language of art, a connection that goes beyond a simple master–disciple relationship.
O-Ei’s powerful words, “Be a painter before being a woman,” resonate strongly with viewers.
Nagasawa’s riveting performance, the perfection of the sets, and the profound father–daughter drama.
With everything in place, this work will speak not only to art lovers but to many others as well.
Streaming services that are likely to carry Oi, O-Ei
We predict which streaming services will offer “Oi, O-Ei” after its theatrical run and present an easy-to-understand comparison table.
Let’s also check free trials and pricing plans.
Predicted streaming service comparison
| Service | Predicted start window | Price | How to watch for free |
|---|---|---|---|
| U-NEXT | Late November 2025 | ¥2,189/month (tax included) | Watch via the initial 31-day free trial |
| Netflix | Mid-December 2025 | Basic ¥990 / Standard ¥1,490 / Premium ¥1,980 | No free trial. Consider watching in your first paid month |
| Hulu | December 2025 to early January 2026 | ¥1,026/month (tax included) | First 2 weeks free, all-you-can-watch |
| TSUTAYA DISCAS | November–December 2025 (planned) | Legacy plan: 8 rentals/month for ¥2,052 (tax included) | Free registration grants points for renting older titles |
| ABEMA | Early December 2025 | ¥960/month (tax included) | Initial 2-week free trial available |
| d Anime Store | Mid–late December 2025 | ¥440/month (tax included) | Watch with the initial 31-day free trial |
On major services, streaming is predicted to start about 1–2 months after the theatrical release.
We recommend taking advantage of free trials to keep costs down.
FAQs before watching Oi, O-Ei
We answer common questions and concerns about the movie “Oi, O-Ei” in a Q&A format.
Whether to watch in theaters or wait for streaming, how heavy the content feels, and whether it’s family-friendly—check the points you’re curious about.
Q1. When will the movie “Oi, O-Ei” start streaming?
The film opens in theaters on October 17, 2025, and streaming on video platforms is predicted to start as early as late November, rolling out gradually.
Services like U-NEXT and TSUTAYA DISCAS are strong candidates.
Q2. Is the content difficult? I’m not into period dramas—will I still enjoy it?
Though set in the Edo period, it depicts emotions and perspectives that feel modern, making it accessible even to those who don’t usually like period dramas.
It’s easy to empathize with O-Ei, and the story moves at a lively pace.
Q3. Is it suitable for families? Can elementary and middle schoolers understand it?
It should be fine for children aged 12 and up.
If your family is interested in art, you can enjoy it together.
Q4. Can I enjoy it without reading the original manga?
Yes, it’s structured to be fully enjoyable as a standalone film.
Even if you haven’t read the original, the story is carefully told and relationships are depicted clearly.
Q5. What are viewers saying?
Early screenings and social media feature many positive comments such as “a new frontier for Masami Nagasawa,” “stunning visuals,” and “the dialogues with Hokusai are moving.”
Check key questions in advance.
Pay special attention to the streaming window and target age range.
Selected filmographies of the lead cast
The principal cast of “Oi, O-Ei” have appeared in numerous buzzworthy works.
If you check out their representative roles beforehand, you’ll likely feel even more emotionally invested in their performances here.
Masami Nagasawa’s works
- “Moteki” (2011) … Showcases a wide range from comedy to serious drama
- “The Confidence Man JP” series… Overwhelming presence as the genius con artist “Dako”
- “MOTHER” (2020) … An overwhelmingly realistic turn as a mother
Kaito Takahashi’s works
- “Dragon Zakura (Season 2)” (2021) … Acting debut as student Teruki Seto
- “Boyfriend Kourin!” (2022) … His first leading TV drama drew attention
- “However, I Have Passion” (2023) … Established himself as a serious actor playing Masayasu Wakabayashi
Masatoshi Nagase’s works
- “Don’t Call It Mystery” (2023) … Won support for a role with great depth
- “My Man” (2014) … Left a strong impression with his unique presence
- “Paterson” (2016) … Appears in a film by Jim Jarmusch
“Oi, O-Ei,” where these careers intersect, can truly be called an artwork born of a collaboration among seasoned talents.
Exploring the main cast’s past works will deepen your understanding of their roles in “Oi, O-Ei.”
Recommended similar and related titles
For those moved by “Oi, O-Ei,” we’ve curated films and dramas themed around art, history, and family love.
Each title shares common threads such as artists’ struggles, women’s paths in life, and historical settings.
1. “HOKUSAI” (2021)
A live-action film depicting the life of Katsushika Hokusai.
Yuya Yagira and Min Tanaka portray the young and old Hokusai, vividly depicting his passion for creation and Edo culture.
It also touches on his relationship with O-Ei, making it highly relevant to this film.
2. “Ochoyan” (2020–2021, NHK Morning Drama)
A moving work about a woman who lives for the performing arts.
The protagonist, Chiyo, faces down the times and prejudice, carving out her own path with talent—a story that echoes O-Ei.
3. “The Monuments Men” (2014)
The true story of specialists who struggled to protect art looted by the Nazis during World War II.
Its themes—art’s value and the significance of preserving it for future generations—will resonate with art lovers.
4. “Ballerina” (2016)
A coming-of-age story about a girl who pursues her dream and overcomes adversity to express herself.
Though animated, it’s perfect for those like O-Ei who believe in their own potential.
If you enjoyed “Oi, O-Ei,” look for films that blend art with human drama.
Human stories set against a historical backdrop invite deep empathy and can be profoundly moving.
Check out the buzz on social media
We gathered real reactions to “Oi, O-Ei” from early test screenings and social posts.
We provide our own scoring from five angles: script, direction, acting, visuals, and music.
Evaluation parameters (out of 100)
| Parameter | Full score | Score for this film |
|---|---|---|
| Script | 20 | 17 |
| Direction | 20 | 18 |
| Acting | 20 | 19 |
| Visual beauty | 20 | 20 |
| Music | 20 | 16 |
| Total score | 100 | 90 |
Selected social/review quotes
- “Masami Nagasawa’s performance pierces the heart. She closely follows the complexities of O-Ei—wonderful.”
- “The visuals are too beautiful… I could really feel Edo’s atmosphere.”
- “The carefully drawn parent–child bond made me cry.”
- “The music is a bit restrained, but it fits the overall mood.”
On social media, visuals and acting receive especially high praise.
With an overall score of 90, expectations are high for this art-driven drama.
I want to be called Master Milk-Bear too, kuma~!
…But every picture I draw with crayons ends up being a “bear,” kuma.
I guess I’m destined to be a spectator bear, huh~♪
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