A Fake Dog and a Lying Cat | How to Watch Online Free & Streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu & U-NEXT, Mahiro Takasugi

Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko — would you like to know where you can watch it? This is a highly anticipated film starring Mahiro Takasugi and directed by Yuta Morigaki, scheduled for nationwide release on January 9, 2026 (Friday). The release will start with theatrical screenings (PG12). In this article, we will clearly explain how to watch it in theaters and, after the release, how to watch it for free or at a rock-bottom price. The theme of the film is a story about one family’s “lies” and “love” spanning 30 years. Based on official information such as the release date and rating, we will predict and compare the likelihood of it being available on various subscription services. We will also introduce how to use money-saving digital movie tickets, so if you want to know the cheapest way to watch it right after the release, be sure to read to the end.

“Where can I watch Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko, kuma?” Mahiro Takasugi is in it, kuma! First, you should see it in theaters, kuma~! …But my wallet feels empty, kuma. Let’s look for a good-value ticket, kuma~!

What Is Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko?

Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko, scheduled for nationwide release on January 9, 2026 (Friday), is a drama that carefully portrays family relationships. The film’s theme is a story about one family and their “lies” and “love” over 30 years, and at the time of release it will start with theatrical screenings (PG12). Below, we will organize the film’s overview, release information, and main staff and cast based on official announcements.

Overview of the Film (Genre & Themes)

Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko is a feature-length film that falls into the family drama genre. The story focuses on a single family and portrays how the “lies” that have built up over many years change their relationships. The themes include “truth and fiction,” “forgiveness and renewal,” and “emotional change over time,” and the film is expected to move audiences emotionally and evoke deep empathy. The direction focuses on delicate psychological depictions and conversations that reflect a contemporary image of the family, and from the trailer material we can sense an emphasis on each character’s inner life.

Release Date and Rating (January 9, 2026 Release, PG12)

According to the official announcement, the release date is January 9, 2026 (Friday). The film will premiere in Japan with theatrical screenings, and the rating is set at PG12. PG12 means “Parental guidance is recommended,” indicating that the content may include material that requires attention when children watch it alone. Since theater schedules may change after the release, we recommend that you check the latest schedule at the theater where you plan to watch the film before going.

Director, Main Staff, and Lead Cast (Mahiro Takasugi & Director Yuta Morigaki)

The film is directed by Yuta Morigaki. Director Morigaki has previous experience with works that were recognized at international film festivals, and his unique perspective and directing style are highly anticipated here as well. The lead role is played by actor Mahiro Takasugi, who serves as the emotional center of the story through the family’s central character. According to official information, other main staff and cast members have also been announced, but more detailed roles and staff names are expected to be released over time based on official updates. In conjunction with the release, special digital movie tickets at good value have been announced, so using these tickets can be advantageous when considering early theatrical viewing.

Synopsis and Basic Information for Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko

Here we outline the story structure and practical information at the time of release for Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko, while avoiding spoilers. We will cover everything from the film’s themes and characters to important points about the theatrical release.

Short Synopsis (No Spoilers)

Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko is a drama that depicts “30 years of lies and love” within a certain family. The story centers on how the small lies that quietly built up within an ordinary-looking family gradually change their relationships over the years. The characters change over time, and their choices and inner conflicts intersect as the story unfolds. The direction emphasizes psychological realism, with devices throughout the film that ask the audience “whose side they stand on.” Because the focus is on emotional shifts and subtle nuances, the film is expected to leave a quiet yet profound aftertaste.

Characters and Cast List

At present, the main cast members that have been firmly confirmed by official announcements are as follows. More detailed roles and additional cast members are expected to be revealed over time through future official updates.

• Mahiro Takasugi (lead) — Expected to play the central figure in the family.
• Other roles and cast — Please refer to official announcements.

Since the film carefully follows the passage of time and the characters’ inner changes, the performances of the main cast and the depiction of their relationships will directly influence how the work is received. For lead actor Mahiro Takasugi, this role is expected to require subtle emotional expression.

Screening Information (Theatrical Release Notes & Digital Ticket Information)

According to the official announcement, the release date is January 9, 2026 (Friday), with the initial release consisting of nationwide theatrical screenings. The rating is PG12, meaning parental guidance is recommended. Since theater schedules can change, please be sure to check with your preferred theater before watching. Official information has also announced the availability of money-saving digital movie tickets. Digital tickets are typically purchased via smartphone or PC and presented at the entrance, and may include early-bird discounts or benefits for purchasing multiple tickets. General tips for saving money when watching are as follows:

• Use the theater’s membership program and points.
• Check for early-bird and bundle discounts on digital movie tickets.
• Take advantage of discount categories such as student discounts, ladies’ day, and late shows.
• Check credit card benefits and special offers for e-money payments.

Immediately after the theatrical release, there are basically no official ways to watch the film completely free. By keeping an eye on when streaming and rental options launch after the release, and by using free trials and promotional campaigns offered by streaming platforms, you may be able to watch effectively for free or at a very low price. In the following sections, we will predict which subscription services are likely to stream the film and suggest specific ways to watch it for free.

Highlights and Points of Interest to Know Before Watching

Here are some key points to keep in mind before watching Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko. Although it is a quiet family drama, its strengths lie in subtle psychological portrayals and how relationships change over time.

Highlights in Acting and Screenplay

Lead actor Mahiro Takasugi is expected to express complex emotional shifts through the family’s central character. Because the screenplay deals with the long time axis of “lies and love over 30 years”, it is crucial that the script carefully handles the characters’ gradual changes and the payoff of accumulated emotions. Pay attention to the quiet dialogue, the pacing of pauses, and the way trivial everyday lies become meaningful later in the story.

Director Yuta Morigaki’s Unique Direction and Visual Style

Director Yuta Morigaki has previously shown a restrained visual aesthetic and careful character portrayals in his past works. In this film as well, he is expected to visualize the passage of time through cinematography and camera work. By capturing the small details of everyday life, the film likely brings each character’s inner life to the surface, leaving a lingering impression on the audience.

The Depth of Themes Around Family and “Lies”

The central theme of “lies” in the film includes not only malicious lies but also lies told to protect someone and lies told unconsciously, reflecting many different aspects. The story’s core question is what kind of consequences these lies bring about over time. While identifying with the characters, the audience will be encouraged to think about themes such as “forgiveness” and “renewal.”

Streaming Services Likely to Offer Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko

After its theatrical release on January 9, 2026, we can make some predictions about which subscription and streaming services might offer the film. These estimates are based on past release patterns, each service’s business model (rental vs. subscription), and common release-to-streaming windows in the Japanese market.

Assumptions and Criteria Behind the Streaming Predictions

The following predictions are based on these criteria:

• We assume a standard window for digital distribution after the theatrical release (digital rental about 3–6 months after release, and subscription streaming about 6–12 months after release).
• We consider each service’s strengths (rental-focused vs. subscription-focused) and their past track records.
• We take into account that titles often appear first as “digital rental/purchase” and only later move to “all-you-can-watch” plans.

Predicted Streaming Table (Service, Estimated Start Date, Price, How to Watch for Free)

Note: The streaming start dates are only predictions. Please check each provider’s official announcements for actual schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions About Watching Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko

Here we summarize common questions that arise before and just after the release in a Q&A format. These answers assume a theatrical release date of January 9, 2026 (Friday) and a rating of PG12.

Q1: From when and where can I watch it?

According to the official announcement, the nationwide theatrical release will begin on January 9, 2026 (Friday). Because theaters and showtimes may change, be sure to check the latest information at your preferred theater before watching.

Q2: Is there any way to watch it for free right after the release?

There is basically no official way to watch the film completely for free immediately after the theatrical release. However, by using theater membership systems and point programs, credit card benefits, and early-bird digital movie tickets, you can watch the film at a significantly reduced effective cost. Once streaming begins after the theatrical run, you may be able to watch effectively for free through the first-time trial offers of streaming platforms.

Q3: When is streaming likely to start?

Based on typical streaming schedules, digital rental often becomes available about 3–6 months after the theatrical release, and there are many cases where titles move to all-you-can-watch plans within 6–12 months. However, the exact timing can vary depending on contracts and distribution policies, so please confirm the official streaming start dates with each provider.

Q4: What should I keep in mind regarding the PG12 rating?

PG12 means “Parental guidance is recommended.” This rating is assigned to films that may contain depictions of violence, sexual content, or other shocking material that could affect children. Even though this is a family drama, the themes and emotional impact may be heavy, so we recommend that children watch with a parent or guardian and that you consider the viewer’s age and sensitivity.

Q5: When is it better to choose rental versus an all-you-can-watch plan?

If you only want to watch the film once and as soon as possible, digital rental is often the fastest and most affordable option. If you plan to watch multiple titles on the same service or use the service for a longer period, it can be more economical to sign up for a subscription once the film is available on an all-you-can-watch plan. The smartest approach is to check for campaigns and point bonuses around the time streaming begins and decide based on those offers.

Filmography of the Lead Actor

The film stars Mahiro Takasugi. Here we outline his career, acting style, and what kind of role we can expect him to play in this film.

Mahiro Takasugi’s Career and Acting Style

Mahiro Takasugi has been active in films and TV dramas since a young age and is recognized for his subtle emotional expressions and restrained, introspective acting. In a work like this that portrays family conflict, he is expected to deliver quiet performances that convey delicate shifts of feeling. According to official announcements, Takasugi plays the central character in the family, and the depiction of this character over many years will be a crucial showcase for his acting.

Expected Role and Points to Watch in This Film

While detailed character names are expected to be announced over time, official information indicates that he will be “the central figure in the family”, serving as the emotional axis of the story. Key points to watch include:

• How he differentiates the character’s emotional state as time passes.
• His expressions and timing in scenes where he confronts the family’s lies.
• How he responds to Director Yuta Morigaki’s direction and demonstrates his maturity as an actor.

Recommended Similar and Related Works

Here are some works that share themes or tone with Kakuu no Inu to Uso o Tsuku Neko. We focus on family dramas, stories about secrets and lies, and works that explore emotional changes over time.

Recommended Viewing List (With Suggested Order)

• Shoplifters — A masterpiece that questions the nature of family from the perspective of family bonds and society.
• Like Father, Like Son — A moving film about the truth of parent–child relationships and what makes a family.
• Family Stories (similar family dramas) — A group of works that portray how small lies and secrets affect families.

In terms of viewing order, watching one thematically similar film first and then seeing this one can deepen your understanding of themes such as family, lies, and forgiveness, enhancing the emotional impact after viewing.

Check Reactions and Word of Mouth on Social Media!

We can anticipate possible trends in social media reactions right before and after the release and rate the film across several key parameters. The scores below are predictions based on pre-release information, the director and lead actor’s reputations, and interest in the film’s themes.

Five Evaluation Parameters

• Acting: 22 out of 25
• Screenplay: 20 out of 25
• Direction: 18 out of 20
• Emotional Impact: 17 out of 20
• Buzz/Trendiness: 8 out of 10

Total score (out of 100): 85.

Reasons Behind the Scores and Likely Social Media Reactions

The acting score is expected to be high thanks to the combination of lead actor Mahiro Takasugi and Director Yuta Morigaki. For the screenplay, the heavy theme of “lies and love over 30 years” means the quality of payoff and character development will strongly influence the evaluation. The direction is likely to be highly anticipated given the director’s past work, although the quiet storytelling may divide opinions. The emotional impact depends on how much viewers can relate to the characters, so the predicted score is relatively high. The buzz score is expected to be solid, driven by film festival recognition and attention on both the director and lead actor, although it may not reach the level of a large-scale blockbuster.

Typical Social Media Reactions (Trends)

• Positive reactions: Likely to focus on praising the subtlety of the performances and the director’s visual style.
• Negative reactions: May come from viewers who feel the pacing is slow or who do not connect with the quiet tone.
• Neutral/Analytical reactions: Discussions may become active around foreshadowing and the motivations behind the family’s actions.

Summary: The Quickest Route to Free Viewing and Money-Saving Techniques

At the time of release, theatrical viewing will be the default option. Because completely free viewing is difficult, consider the following order to find the cheapest way to watch:

• If you watch in theaters: Use early-bird digital tickets, theater membership points, and discount days.
• Right after streaming and rental start: Use rental services like U-NEXT, Amazon Prime Video, and DMM TV, leveraging points and first-time benefits to watch effectively for free.
• After the film moves to all-you-can-watch plans: Sign up for services like Netflix or Hulu when the film enters their subscription libraries and watch it there.

“Finished watching, kuma?” “It’s not out yet, but I’m fully prepared, kuma!” “Still deciding whether to watch it in theaters or on streaming, kuma?” “If you want to save money, use your points, kuma~!”