Exploring Grief and Renewal in "Ha-chan, Shake Your Booty!"

"Ha-chan, Shake Your Booty!" follows Haru, portrayed by Rinko Kikuchi, as she navigates the complexities of grief after the sudden death of her husband, Luis (Alejandro Edda). The film, directed by Josef Kubota Wladyka, premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival and is dedicated to Wladyka's mother, reflecting a blend of personal and cultural narratives. Haru's journey begins with her retreat into mourning, but as she is encouraged by her sister and friends to return to dance classes, she encounters new feelings for her instructor, Fedir (Alberto Guerra), leading to a comedic yet poignant exploration of love and loss.

Hollywood ReporterThe WrapIndieWire

Set in Tokyo, the film captures the multicultural essence of Haru and Luis's life together, showcasing their shared love for ballroom dancing and the blending of Japanese and Mexican cultures. This backdrop serves as a foundation for Haru's emotional journey, illustrating how their vibrant life is abruptly altered by Luis's death. The narrative shifts from a focus on their shared passions to Haru's struggle with her identity and grief.

IndieWire

Haru is supported by her sister Yuki (Yoh Yoshida) and cousin Hiromi (YOU), who play crucial roles in encouraging her to step back into the world. Fedir, the charismatic dance instructor, becomes a focal point for Haru's conflicting emotions as she grapples with guilt over moving on. Each character contributes to the film's exploration of grief, love, and the complexities of human relationships.

Hollywood Reporter

The film addresses the often messy nature of grief, portraying Haru's journey as both humorous and heart-wrenching. It challenges the notion of moving on, presenting Haru's attempts to engage with life and love again as a universal struggle. The film's light-hearted approach to serious themes invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences with loss and recovery.

IndieWire

Critics have noted the film's unique blend of humor and emotional depth. Wladyka's direction has been praised for its ability to shift between poignant moments and comedic relief, although some reviews suggest that the film occasionally lacks the emotional weight necessary to fully engage with its themes of grief. The film's vibrant aesthetic and engaging performances, particularly by Kikuchi, have been highlighted as strengths.

Variety Magazine

While many reviews commend the film's charm and humor, some critics argue that it simplifies the complexities of grief. The tonal shifts between comedy and drama have been described as uneven, leading to moments where the emotional impact feels diluted. The film's reliance on whimsical elements, such as a giant crow representing Haru's grief, has also drawn mixed responses regarding its effectiveness in conveying deeper emotional truths.

Variety Magazine

• “Even when it is most concerned with death, though, the film is full of life, from the colorful production design to the well-chosen costumes.” — Hollywood Reporter

Hollywood Reporter

• “In trying to make grief wholly digestible, Wladyka ends up making it bland.” — Variety

Variety Magazine

• “She makes Haru a character worth rooting for — even, or perhaps especially, when she’s making all the wrong decisions.” — The Wrap

The Wrap

"Ha-chan, Shake Your Booty!" is currently seeking U.S. distribution, with hopes of reaching a wider audience. The film's blend of humor, dance, and emotional exploration positions it as a unique entry in contemporary cinema, appealing to those interested in stories of resilience and renewal.

The Wrap