“Can I watch ‘Love Trial’ for free?” If you’re wondering that, this article thoroughly investigates how to watch the movie “Love Trial,” releasing on January 23, 2026, for free or at a discount. Starring Kyoko Saito, Yuki Kura, and Kenjiro Tsuda, this much-talked-about title is a socially conscious human drama centered on idols and romance. We’ll also cover the estimated streaming start window and detailed free-trial info for major video subscription services. “Which service is the best deal?” “When’s the best timing to watch for free?” We’ll answer all of your questions! By the end, you’ll immediately know the cheapest way to watch the movie ‘Love Trial’.
What is Love Trial?
“Love Trial” is a highly anticipated film slated for nationwide release on Friday, January 23, 2026. The director is Koji Fukada, whose work has been highly acclaimed at the Cannes Film Festival. Rising screenwriter Shintaro Mitani joins as a co-writer, crafting an ambitious courtroom drama that tackles the sensitive contemporary theme of “idols and romance.”
The lead is former Hinatazaka46 member Kyoko Saito, who plays Mai Yamaoka, an idol bound by a no-dating contract. Yuki Kura delivers a passionate performance as Kei Mayama, the man she loves who changes her fate. The cast also includes Erika Karata and veteran voice actor/actor Kenjiro Tsuda. The ensemble’s skillful performances bring tension and realism, adding depth to the entire piece.
Produced jointly by Knock on Wood, TOHO Studios, and Toho, the project is proceeding as a major production aiming to win film awards in Japan and abroad. It has also been announced for the 78th Cannes Film Festival, Cannes Premiere section, drawing significant attention even before release.
Basic Information on the Movie “Love Trial”
| Title | Love Trial |
|---|---|
| Release date | January 23, 2026 (Fri) |
| Director | Koji Fukada |
| Screenplay | Koji Fukada / Shintaro Mitani |
| Starring | Kyoko Saito, Yuki Kura |
| Co-starring | Erika Karata, Kenjiro Tsuda, etc. |
| Runtime | 124 minutes |
| Distributor | Toho |
| Genre | Human Drama / Romance / Social |
| Official site | https://renai-saiban.toho.co.jp/ |
The title “Love Trial” draws partial inspiration from the world of the former hit Vocaloid song “Love Trial” (by 40mP), yet the film is built as an original script. By directly asking, “Is an idol’s love a sin?” as a social issue, it’s an ambitious work that throws a stone into today’s entertainment industry.
“Love Trial” is the latest from director Koji Fukada and features the first on-screen pairing of Kyoko Saito and Yuki Kura! If you want details on post-release streaming and free viewing, keep reading.
Synopsis & Work Info
The movie “Love Trial” tells a shocking story in which an idol bound by a “no-dating” rule falls in love—and that love is ultimately judged in a courtroom. It’s not just a romance; it’s drawing attention as a socially conscious human drama that questions the structure of the entertainment industry and individual freedom.
The protagonist is Mai Yamaoka (Kyoko Saito), center of the popular idol group “Happy☆Fanfare.” She reunites by chance with her middle-school classmate Kei Mayama (Yuki Kura), and the two are drawn to each other. However, her agency has a “no-dating clause,” and citing breach of contract, Mai is summoned to court.
Is her love a sin, or a natural human emotion? Is what’s on trial “love,” or “individual freedom”—? Through Mai’s confessions and testimony, the film lays bare the essence of what it means to be an idol.
Characters & Cast
- Mai Yamaoka (Kyoko Saito): Center of a nationally beloved idol group. A tireless hard worker, but deemed a “criminal” for falling in love.
- Kei Mayama (Yuki Kura): Mai’s first love and former classmate. His presence profoundly changes Mai’s destiny.
- Yuri Miura (Erika Karata): A member of the same group. A woman who harbors complicated feelings toward Mai.
- Court-appointed defense attorney (Kenjiro Tsuda): A brilliant lawyer defending Mai who seeks to expose the dark side of entertainment contracts.
Amid the courtroom clashes, Mai reexamines what it means to “fall in love” and steels herself to choose her own life. Fukada’s signature delicate psychological depiction and social gaze merge into a work that mirrors our times.
Visuals & Music
The cinematographer is Kenichi Negishi, also highly praised for “Harmonium.” The striking visuals contrast the cold air of the courtroom with the passion burning within the protagonist. Music is by sound designer Kensuke Ushio (Sakanaction). The score—where silence and tension intersect—deepens the film’s emotions.
During the end credits, the theme song is a new cover of 40mP’s original “Love Trial” sung by Kyoko Saito. This closes the film’s world beautifully and leaves a powerful impression on viewers.
“Love Trial” is not a mere romance; it’s a courtroom human drama that asks, “What is freedom?” Kyoko Saito’s acting and Koji Fukada’s direction blend superbly.
Highlights to Know Before Watching
“Love Trial” squarely depicts two opposing values: love and rules, freedom and constraint. More than a simple love story, it’s structured in true Koji Fukada fashion, fusing social themes with human drama. Here are three highlights to note before watching.
1) The pinnacle of Fukada’s “quietly social” drama
Director Koji Fukada, acclaimed for works like “Harmonium” and “The Real Thing,” tackles the absurd entertainment-industry rule of “no dating,” portraying the conflict between individual freedom and social structures.
Courtroom scenes avoid flashy flourishes, favoring quiet, tense camerawork. You’ll feel like a “spectator” observing Mai’s anguish, with a realism akin to watching real news—one of the film’s biggest draws.
2) The delicate chemistry of Kyoko Saito × Yuki Kura
For Kyoko Saito, this is her first full-fledged lead role in a feature film after graduating from Hinatazaka46. Playing someone on the “forbidden to love” side as a former idol blurs the line between reality and fiction. Her every expression and line carry a reality that overlaps with her career to date.
Meanwhile, Yuki Kura’s Kei Mayama symbolizes “love” and “freedom” for Mai. Their delicate relationship allows the film to function as a poignant pure-love drama despite being a courtroom piece. The mere crossing of their gazes will take your breath away.
3) Reinterpretation of the theme “Love Trial” & musical direction
The ending features a newly recorded cover of the legendary track “Love Trial” by Vocaloid producer 40mP, sung by Kyoko Saito—transfiguring the film’s emotions into music. Fans of the original can enjoy it as a fresh interpretation.
Sound design is by Kensuke Ushio (Sakanaction). The tense BGM woven from piano and electronic tones subtly shapes the emotional waves. The balance of sound and silence is a key pillar of the film’s artistry.
“Love Trial” is a gem combining social drama × pure love story × musical direction. Fukada’s direction, the chemistry of Kyoko Saito and Yuki Kura, and the reimagined theme song are unmissable.
Streaming Services Likely to Carry “Love Trial”
“Love Trial” is a brand-new film hitting theaters on Friday, January 23, 2026. Typically, Toho-distributed Japanese films tend to begin streaming about 3–6 months after release on major services. Below, we forecast likely platforms and summarize pricing and free trials.
Predicted Start Windows by Major Streaming Services
| Service | Predicted start window | Price (tax incl.) | How to watch free |
|---|---|---|---|
| U-NEXT | May–July 2026 | ¥2,189 (all-you-can-watch + point system) | 31-day free trial + ¥600 points usable for rental |
| Amazon Prime Video | April–June 2026 | ¥600 (Prime membership) | 30-day free trial + rental discount campaigns |
| Hulu | May–August 2026 | ¥1,026 | 2-week free trial (occasional campaigns) |
| Netflix | June–September 2026 | ¥790–¥1,980 (plan-dependent) | No free trial. Sign up when it starts to watch immediately. |
| Disney+ | May–September 2026 | From ¥990 | First-month free campaigns (timing varies) |
| ABEMA Premium | June–October 2026 | ¥960 | 2-week free trial + use points for rental discounts |
| Crank-in! Video | May–July 2026 | From ¥990 (point system) | 14-day free trial + bonus points |
| TELASA | June–September 2026 | ¥618 | First 15 days free |
Which services are most likely?
Past Koji Fukada titles (“The Real Thing,” “Harmonium,” etc.) arrived early on U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video. Toho-distributed films also often debut on these two first.
Therefore, U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video are our top predictions. Both offer free trial periods, so with the right timing you may effectively watch for free.
“Love Trial” is likely to stream on U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video about 3–6 months after release. Use free trials to aim for zero-yen viewing.
FAQ on Watching “Love Trial”
As the release date for “Love Trial” approaches, more people are asking “When will it stream?” and “Can I watch it for free?” Here are the most common questions, answered with the latest available info.
Q1: When will “Love Trial” start streaming?
As of October 2025, an official streaming start date hasn’t been announced yet. However, live-action films distributed by Toho typically begin streaming about 3–6 months after release. Based on that, there’s a strong chance of U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video launching it around May–July 2026.
For the latest updates, check these official services:
Q2: Is there a way to watch it for free?
Watching completely free is generally difficult, but you can effectively watch for free by using trial periods. We especially recommend:
- U-NEXT: 31-day free trial + ¥600 in points (usable for new-release rentals)
- Amazon Prime Video: 30-day free trial to watch catalog and related titles
If you sign up right when streaming starts, you can watch during the free period and cancel—effectively ¥0.
Q3: When will the Blu-ray/DVD be released?
Blu-ray/DVD dates for “Love Trial” are still undecided, but generally they come about 6 months after theatrical release, so a July–August 2026 package release is likely.
Limited first editions may include a full-version CD of the theme “Love Trial” sung by Kyoko Saito and making-of footage—must-haves for fans.
Q4: Which devices can I use?
U-NEXT, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix support smartphones, PCs, tablets, and smart TVs. U-NEXT especially shines for high-quality streaming (Full HD/4K), ideal for a home theater setup.
Q5: Can I get notified when streaming begins?
On Filmarks and Netflix, you can enable “notify me” features. On U-NEXT and Amazon Prime, adding to your Watchlist can trigger notifications when it becomes available.
Streaming is expected around spring 2026. With free trials, you may effectively watch on U-NEXT or Amazon Prime Video at no cost.
Main Cast Filmography
One of “Love Trial”’s major appeals is the powerful performances by a talented cast. Lead Kyoko Saito, co-star Yuki Kura, and Kenjiro Tsuda each deliver career-defining work. Below are their signature titles and where to stream them.
Kyoko Saito’s Works
After serving as a central member of Hinatazaka46, Kyoko Saito has accelerated her solo acting career. In “Love Trial”, she delicately portrays an idol where reality and fiction intertwine.
| Title | Streaming service | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Shinigami-san | TVer / U-NEXT | Crime drama |
| Re:Mind | Netflix | Suspense / School horror |
| Depraved Appetite | TVer / Hulu | Social drama |
In “Love Trial”, she sheds her idol image to portray a woman’s conflict and resolve.
Yuki Kura’s Works
Rising actor Yuki Kura has won support from many directors with his unique presence and delicate acting.
| Title | Streaming service | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| The One I Want to See Most | U-NEXT | Romance / Human drama |
| Egoist | Netflix | Human / Social |
| Sweet My Home | Amazon Prime Video | Mystery / Psychological drama |
In “Love Trial”, he plays Mai’s lover Kei Mayama. His gentle expressions and quiet performance lend realism and warmth to the story.
Kenjiro Tsuda’s Works
Active as both a voice actor and an actor, Kenjiro Tsuda brings a rich, resonant voice and commanding presence to numerous titles. In “Love Trial,” he plays the protagonist’s attorney—cool-headed yet passionate.
| Title | Streaming service | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| The Way of the Househusband | Netflix | Comedy / Slice of life |
| Jujutsu Kaisen (voice: Kento Nanami) | Netflix / U-NEXT | Anime / Action |
| Goodbye, Cruel World | U-NEXT / Amazon Prime Video | Suspense / Ensemble drama |
Kenjiro Tsuda’s acting and voice heighten the film’s gravitas. In “Love Trial,” his presence as the lawyer supporting Mai amplifies the tension of the courtroom scenes.
All three leads leave a strong mark across diverse works, and “Love Trial” can be called a culmination of their careers. Watching each of their signature titles beforehand deepens your understanding.
Recommended Similar & Related Works
If “Love Trial” appeals to you, films that similarly portray love, society, and human conflict will likely resonate. Here are recommended related works by theme and directorial style, with streaming info.
Past Works by Director Koji Fukada
Director Koji Fukada is known for quietly observing society’s “distortions” and “individual dignity.” His past works share a throughline of questioning human nature.
| Title | Streaming service | Theme |
|---|---|---|
| Harmonium (2016) | U-NEXT / Netflix | A psychological drama on family collapse and atonement |
| The Real Thing (2020) | U-NEXT / Amazon Prime Video | A suspenseful look at the perils lurking behind love |
| Just Only Love (script collaborator) | Netflix / TVer | A realistic portrait of a modern woman drowning in love |
Socially Conscious Romance Dramas
Like “Love Trial”, many films that weave social themes into love stories are profoundly moving. These titles are thematically close.
| Title | Streaming service | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| We Made a Beautiful Bouquet | Amazon Prime Video / U-NEXT | A social love story about a couple in their 20s navigating love and reality in Tokyo |
| River, Don’t Run (2023) | U-NEXT | A human drama about hope and despair in a town where time has stopped |
| The Last 10 Years | Netflix / U-NEXT | A tender, moving tale of a couple living with limited time |
Works About Idols & the Entertainment Industry
“Love Trial” takes on the theme of “no dating for idols.” Many works similarly depict the backstage and human drama of show business.
| Title | Streaming service | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World (TV drama) | TVer / Hulu | Pure love / School / Tearjerker |
| IDOL NEVER DIES | U-NEXT | Idols × Sci-fi × Social satire |
| Hot Gimmick: Girl Meets Boy | Netflix | Youth film exploring love and power structures in show business |
Each of these titles reflects social realities within love stories, resonating with “Love Trial.” Watching Fukada’s earlier works in particular will help the film’s message come through even more clearly.
To enjoy “Love Trial” even more, check out Koji Fukada’s films and other Japanese movies with love × social themes! U-NEXT and Netflix in particular have strong related lineups.
Buzz & Word of Mouth on Social Media
“Love Trial” has been trending on social media even before release. Its bold setup—a courtroom drama about “no dating for idols”—has sparked debate on X (formerly Twitter) and the review site Filmarks. Here we summarize reactions and analyze overall sentiment.
Impressions on X (formerly Twitter)
- “Kyoko Saito’s acting is overwhelming… Not an idol’s face, but an actress’s!”
- “Director Koji Fukada has done it again. Quiet but searing—and beautiful.”
- “The phrase ‘no dating’ made me rethink things. This isn’t just a romance.”
- “Kenjiro Tsuda in the courtroom is electrifying. That voice convinces.”
- “The balance of music and visuals is divine. I cried at the theme song…”
On X, there are especially many positive opinions about Kyoko Saito’s acting and Koji Fukada’s direction. Some say, however, that “it’s too heavy for a movie about idols” and that “you need to brace yourself,” fueling discussion.
Review Trends on Filmarks
On Filmarks, it’s spotlighted as a highly anticipated film even before release. From users who saw preview screenings, the following comments stand out:
- “Quiet for a courtroom drama—but it feels like the heart is screaming.”
- “The question ‘Is love a sin?’ made me reflect on my own life.”
- “Peak Fukada. Silence speaks louder than dialogue.”
5-Parameter Score Analysis
| Category | Average (out of 10) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Acting | 9.2 | Natural performances by Kyoko Saito and Yuki Kura; the late courtroom scenes are breathtaking. |
| Script / Structure | 8.8 | Relaxed tempo, but probing social themes that make you think. |
| Visuals / Direction | 9.0 | Beautiful contrasts of soft light and shadow; Fukada’s signature serenity. |
| Music / Theme | 9.1 | The new cover of 40mP’s “Love Trial” elevates key scenes; perfect musical entrances. |
| Satisfaction | 9.0 | Powerful afterglow; widely called a masterpiece that spotlights social issues. |
Overall Score
⭐ Overall rating: 91/100
“Love Trial” combines “beauty,” “weight,” and “reality,” leaving a deep impression on many viewers. Social media buzz repeatedly calls it “a film you can’t forget once you’ve seen it.”
On social media, Kyoko Saito’s acting and Koji Fukada’s direction are earning high praise! With an average of 91 points, some hail it as a representative Japanese film of the first half of 2026.
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