Shoplifters — Movie Quotes

This line is spoken during Nobuyo's interrogation by the police after the family has been discovered. It is a powerful defiance of the societal norms that would condemn her for "kidnapping" Yuri while validating the real motherly love she provided.

This quote encapsulates the film's central theme, challenging the primacy of biological ties in defining parenthood. Nobuyo asserts that motherhood is about love, care, and action, not just the physical act of childbirth.

Nobuyo says this to Osamu, reflecting on their decision to keep Yuri and the bond that has formed between them all. It's a moment of quiet affirmation of their unconventional family unit.

This quote directly states one of the film's core messages. It suggests that the families we choose can be more supportive and loving than the ones we are born into, especially when biological families are dysfunctional or abusive.

Osamu says this to the police during his interrogation, expressing a mix of resignation and regret about his role in Shota's life. It highlights the tragedy of his situation and the limited opportunities available to him.

This quote reveals Osamu's deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and his awareness of his limitations as a father figure. It's a poignant admission that the only skill he can pass on to Shota is one that puts him at odds with society.

As the bus carrying Shota away from Osamu pulls away, Shota looks back and quietly utters this word. Osamu, running after the bus, doesn't hear him, which adds to the scene's bittersweet poignancy.

In English: "Dad...". This single word, spoken at the end of the film, is the culmination of Shota's emotional journey. Throughout the movie, he refuses to call Osamu "father," but in this final moment, as he leaves, he acknowledges the bond they shared, even though their time together is over.