Is there a way to watch “Eikō no Back Home” for free? This is the big question right after its release. Scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on November 28, 2025, this film is a moving work based on the true story of Hanshin Tigers player Shintaro Yokota. It stars Takaya Matsutani, with Kyoka Suzuki as the mother and Hirona Yamazaki as the older sister, and features Yuzu’s “Eikō no Kakehashi” as the theme song. In this article, we thoroughly explain whether you can watch it on streaming services like U-NEXT, Amazon Prime, and Netflix, the possibility of free viewing, plus highlights and cast information.
While feeling the emotions at a movie theater is great, many still want to savor it at home. So, when and where can you actually watch it?
- What is “Eikō no Back Home”?
- “Eikō no Back Home” synopsis & production info
- Highlights to know before watching
- Streaming services likely to carry “Eikō no Back Home”
- Frequently asked questions about watching “Eikō no Back Home”
- Main cast filmography
- Recommended similar/related titles
- Check out the buzz on social media!
What is “Eikō no Back Home”?
The film “Eikō no Back Home” is a moving human drama based on the true story of Shintaro Yokota, who played for the Hanshin Tigers. It opens nationwide on November 28, 2025, directed by Jun Akiyama with a screenplay by Yuriko Nakai. The core of the story is the play known as the “Miracle Back Home” that occurred during his retirement game on September 26, 2019. That moment inspired and moved not only professional baseball fans but many others as well.
The lead role of Yokota is passionately portrayed by Takaya Matsutani, with Kyoka Suzuki as his mother, Manami, and Hirona Yamazaki as his sister, Mako. The cast is further strengthened by names like Kentaro Maeda and Yusuke Kamiji. The theme song is Yuzu’s “Eikō no Kakehashi”, a song Yokota cherished during his playing days, which beautifully aligns with the film’s theme.
Production background and source material
This work is based on Shintaro Yokota’s own book “Kiseki no Back Home” (published by KADOKAWA) and Yuriko Nakai’s “Eikō no Back Home: Shintaro Yokota, Eternal No. 24”. From the planning stage, meticulous interviews with his family and Hanshin Tigers personnel were conducted. While staying true to the facts for the adaptation, the film adds emotional touches unique to cinema.
The Hanshin Tigers and Shintaro Yokota’s journey
Yokota joined the Hanshin Tigers as a second-round draft pick in 2013. A speedy outfielder with strong defense, he carried high expectations, but at 21 he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and took a long hiatus. After determined rehabilitation, he stepped onto the field for his retirement game in 2019 and delivered a precise and flawless throw from right field to home. This moment is why it’s called a “miracle,” and it ties directly to the film’s title.
“Eikō no Back Home” isn’t just a baseball movie—it’s a true-story drama about family love, bonds with teammates, and facing adversity. Takaya Matsutani’s passionate performance and Yuzu’s theme song are sure to bring tears.
“Eikō no Back Home” synopsis & production info
The film “Eikō no Back Home” tells the true story of Shintaro Yokota, an outfielder for the Hanshin Tigers whose future was highly anticipated until he was diagnosed with a brain tumor at age 21. The story follows his journey from turning pro to his retirement game, carefully portraying the bonds with his family and teammates and his struggle with illness.
Yokota, a second-round Hanshin draft pick, captivated fans with his speed and defense. However, in 2017, a brain tumor was discovered, forcing a long layoff. After intensive treatment and rehab came his retirement game on September 26, 2019. He unleashed a laser throw from the outfield to home to cut down the runner—the “Miracle Back Home.” This climactic moment moves many viewers to tears.
Production info
| Title | Eikō no Back Home |
|---|---|
| Release date | November 28, 2025 (Fri) |
| Director | Jun Akiyama |
| Screenplay | Yuriko Nakai |
| Source material | “Kiseki no Back Home” (Shintaro Yokota), “Eikō no Back Home: Shintaro Yokota, Eternal No. 24” (Yuriko Nakai) |
| Cast | Takaya Matsutani, Kyoka Suzuki, Hirona Yamazaki, Kentaro Maeda, Yusuke Kamiji |
| Theme song | Yuzu “Eikō no Kakehashi” |
| Distributor | GAGA |
| Runtime | TBD |
Differences from the source
While the film is based on the facts told in the books, it carefully depicts interactions with family and teammates, using cinematic expression to convey emotional highs and lows. It also includes training scenes and struggles in the hospital that weren’t covered in the books, helping viewers deeply empathize with Yokota’s inner feelings.
Even if you know the plot, this is a tearjerker. Those familiar with the real story will feel the power and emotional depth only a film can provide.
Highlights to know before watching
“Eikō no Back Home” is not merely a sports film; it’s a highly accomplished human drama. The core is the “Miracle Back Home” in the 2019 retirement game, but the film carefully portrays the struggles, effort, and relationships with those who supported him leading up to that moment.
Lead actor Takaya Matsutani studied Yokota’s actual footage in depth to reproduce his form, mannerisms, and even voice. Kyoka Suzuki, as his mother, powerfully conveys both strength and tenderness, moving the audience. Hirona Yamazaki, as his sister, offers a perspective from the only family member not directly involved in baseball, adding depth to the story.
1. Fidelity of the Miracle Back Home recreation
The film’s biggest highlight is, of course, the climactic “Miracle Back Home.” It faithfully recreates the atmosphere of Koshien Stadium, using hundreds of extras and CG to capture the crowd’s heat. The trajectory and speed of the throw were reproduced under guidance from former pro players, achieving realism and impact.
2. Emotion woven by Yuzu’s “Eikō no Kakehashi”
The theme song, Yuzu’s “Eikō no Kakehashi”, was Yokota’s walk-up song during his career. Its lyrics and melody overlap with the story, stirring strong emotions. The end credits sequence in particular is reputed to make it hard to hold back tears.
3. Messages unique to a true story
Yokota’s fight against illness and his days of rehab are portrayed not as a simple tragedy but as a story of challenge and hope. Viewers can overlay the courage to face hardship and the power of support from those around him onto their own lives.
“Eikō no Back Home” has universal themes that will move not only baseball fans but also those unfamiliar with sports. Knowing the background beforehand lets you savor the story even more deeply.
Streaming services likely to carry “Eikō no Back Home”
“Eikō no Back Home” is a new Japanese film slated for theatrical release on Friday, November 28, 2025. For many domestic releases, the general flow is digital early rental (TVOD) about 2–3 months later, then subscription streaming (SVOD) about 5–9 months later. Based on that norm, below is our estimated start window and practical ways to watch for free or very cheaply on each platform.
Quick chart: release estimates & realistic free options
| Service | Estimated start window | Price (approx., tax incl.) | How to watch free |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | 2026-01 (early rental) / SVOD around 2026-06 | Members: ¥600/mo or ¥5,900/yr | Use the 30-day free trial. Early window likely rental-only (often ¥299–¥599). Once it hits SVOD, it’s effectively free during the trial. |
| U-NEXT | 2026-01 (early rental) / SVOD around 2026-05 | ¥2,189/mo | 31-day free trial + initial points (600pt) to reduce early rental cost. Once on SVOD, it’s effectively free during the trial. |
| Netflix | 2026-08–09 | With ads ¥890 / Standard ¥1,590 / Premium ¥2,290 | No free trial. Wait for SVOD, then watch with the cheapest plan for one month. |
| Hulu | 2026-07–08 | ¥1,026/mo | Generally no free trial. Subscribe for just one month and batch your viewing. |
| Disney+ | Lower likelihood (if it comes, 2026 or later) | Standard ¥1,140 / Premium ¥1,520 | No free trial. Consider only if it’s a platform exclusive. |
| ABEMA | 2026-06–09 (possible limited-time campaigns) | Premium ¥580–¥1,080 (plan-dependent) | Wait for ad-supported free campaigns / use first-month discounts for Premium. |
| Lemino | 2026-06–08 | Lemino Premium ¥990/mo | Join during a new-user promo window for best value; PPV rental also available. |
| d Anime Store | Low likelihood (anime-focused) | ¥550/mo (¥650 via app) | Likely not applicable; consider only if tie-in specials appear. |
| TVer | Possibly special programs only | Free (ad-supported) | The feature film is usually not included. If tied to TV specials, you can watch those for free. |
| Crank-in! Video | 2026-01 (rental) | Pay-per-view (points-based) | Use new-user points to discount the rental. |
| Rakuten TV | 2026-01 (rental) | Pay-per-view | Use campaigns/coupons to make the rental cheaper. |
TSUTAYA DISCAS | 2026-04–06 (after DVD release) | Flat-rate by plan | If you join during a first-month-free campaign, disc rental can be effectively free. |
For those who want to watch free: the most realistic fastest paths
- Fastest viewing: Around 2026-01 via digital early rental (available even without Prime membership on Amazon / use U-NEXT points to cut costs).
- Aim for completely free: Time U-NEXT’s 31-day free trial to its expected SVOD window (2026-05) and watch during the trial.
- SVOD-focused: Start Amazon Prime’s 30-day free trial around the projected SVOD window 2026-06.
Expect rentals around 2026-01 and SVOD sometime between 2026-05 and 2026-09. To watch for free, the most realistic approach is timing your free trials with U-NEXT or Amazon. Netflix/Hulu generally have no free trials, so limit your subscription to a single month for best value.
Frequently asked questions about watching “Eikō no Back Home”
The film “Eikō no Back Home”—here are concise and accurate answers to common questions before and after release, avoiding spoilers while clarifying viewing methods and background.
Q1. Is “Eikō no Back Home” a true story?
Yes. It’s based on the true story of former Hanshin Tigers outfielder Shintaro Yokota. It adapts his book “Kiseki no Back Home” and Yuriko Nakai’s “Eikō no Back Home: Shintaro Yokota, Eternal No. 24” while staying faithful to the facts.
Q2. Where can I read the source books?
They are available at bookstores nationwide and on Amazon and Rakuten Books. E-book editions are also available.
Q3. When will the film stream?
Theatrical release is November 28, 2025. Digital early rental is around 2026-01, and SVOD is around 2026-05 to 2026-09 (estimates).
Q4. When will the DVD/Blu-ray be released?
They typically release about 4–6 months after theatrical, so around 2026-04 to 2026-06. Disc-by-mail services (e.g., TSUTAYA DISCAS) may start at the same time.
Q5. How are the reviews?
From test screenings: “I couldn’t stop crying,” “Takaya Matsutani embodied Yokota,” etc. The recreation of the “Miracle Back Home” climax in particular draws strong reactions.
“Eikō no Back Home” is a moving true-story film. Expect streaming and disc releases from spring 2026 onward. By using free trials and campaigns wisely, you can keep costs down.
Main cast filmography
One of the charms of “Eikō no Back Home” is the powerful performances by a skilled cast. Here are representative works by the three main actors, plus related titles fans should check next.
Takaya Matsutani (as Shintaro Yokota)
- Drama “Namba MG5”
- Film “Father of the Milky Way Railroad”
- Stage “Twelfth Night”
Takaya Matsutani is a stage-trained actor with ample experience in sports-themed works. For this film, he studied Yokota’s form and posture to reproduce realistic baseball play.
Kyoka Suzuki (as mother Manami)
- Film “Departures”
- Drama “Grand Maison Tokyo”
created by Rinker¥17,070 (2025/10/29 09:53:58時点 Amazon調べ-詳細) - Film “House Where the Mermaid Sleeps”人魚の眠る家
Kyoka Suzuki is one of Japan’s leading actresses. She delicately portrays both the strength of a supportive mother and her occasional vulnerability, adding profound emotional weight.
Hirona Yamazaki (as sister Mako)
- Film series “In His Chart”神様のカルテ
- Film “Monster Hunter”映画 モンスターハンター(字幕版)
- Drama “No Side Game”
Hirona Yamazaki has experience in international productions and handles a wide range of roles. Here she supports the story from the viewpoint of a family member not directly involved in baseball.
Watching the main cast’s past works on streaming beforehand helps you appreciate the depth of their performances and preparation in this film.
Recommended similar/related titles
If “Eikō no Back Home” made you cry, here are carefully selected sports/human dramas based on true stories and masterpieces about family bonds. Streaming availability changes by service lineup, so always check at the time of viewing. If not included in SVOD, PPV rental is a realistic option.
Moving true-story baseball films
- “Again: 28 Years Later at Koshien”: A story of adult youth and a second chance.
created by Rinker¥400 (2025/10/29 09:54:01時点 Amazon調べ-詳細) - “The Vancouver Asahi”: The true story of a Japanese-Canadian baseball team that fought against the odds.
- “KANO 1931: Koshien Beyond the Sea”: A team’s rise against adversity.
Human dramas about illness and adversity
- “The 8-Year Engagement”: A true story of long-term recovery and mutual support.８年越しの花嫁 奇跡の実話
- “Shiosai no Inori” (documentary-style) / similar titles: Focused on family devotion.
How to search on streaming (saving tips)
| Search tip | Recommended services | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Check PPV availability first | Amazon Prime Video / U-NEXT / Rakuten TV / Crank-in! Video | New to recent titles often hit rental first. Use points/coupons to make it much cheaper. |
| Target the SVOD window and binge | U-NEXT / Netflix / Hulu | Related titles are grouped in curated rows (Sports / True Stories). Limit subscription to one month for best value. |
| Go discs at home & mine the back catalog | TSUTAYA DISCAS | Great coverage of classics. During a first-month-free period, bulk rentals can be essentially free. |
Related titles tend to flow rental → SVOD. Use points/coupons to save on PPV, and concentrate viewing into a single month for SVOD to maximize value.
Check out the buzz on social media!
Social media posts from just before and after release are perfect for gauging the mood before watching. Here we present a provisional score based on early promotions, test-screening reports, and typical viewer metrics (update alongside release/streaming).
Five-parameter rating (out of 100)
| Parameter | Score | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Tear-jerker level | 92 | True story, family bonds, and the recreated “Back Home” climax will draw high marks. |
| Acting | 88 | Bodywork by Takaya Matsutani, warmth from Kyoka Suzuki, and balance from Hirona Yamazaki shine. |
| Cinematography | 84 | Koshien’s atmosphere and the dynamism of the throw from right field are talking points. |
| Story | 86 | Faithful to the facts with clear arcs. The illness chapters and family perspective are handled with care. |
| Rewatch value | 81 | The lingering impact paired with Yuzu’s “Eikō no Kakehashi” invites repeat viewing. |
| Overall | 86 / 100 | |
Social media keywords to watch
- #KisekiNoBackHome: Real-time highlight reactions will cluster here.
- #ShintaroYokota: Shares of actual play footage and book quotes.
- #EikōNoKakehashi: Posts discussing how the theme song aligns with the tearful moments.
Beware of spoilers on social media. Right after release, use keyword mutes; after you watch, dive into reactions. Verify that shared clips come from official sources.
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