Dear Doctor is a 2009 Japanese drama film directed by Miwa Nishikawa. The film follows the story of Osamu Ino, a respected doctor in a rural village who takes on an intern named Keisuke Soma. Keisuke is initially skeptical of Ino's methods, but he comes to admire the doctor's dedication and the strong bond he has with his patients.
However, their opinions of him are shattered when they learn of a shameful incident from Ino's past. It is revealed that he had falsified the experimental data of a medical study, leading to the death of a patient. The villagers and Keisuke are at first shocked and outraged, but as they get to know Ino better, they begin to see him in a new light.
The film sensitively explores the themes of guilt, redemption, and second chances. Ino struggles with the weight of his past actions, but he is determined to make amends and regain the trust of his patients. Meanwhile, his relationship with Keisuke becomes more complicated as he tries to guide the young doctor on the right path.
The film boasts strong performances from its cast, especially Tsurube Shofukutei, who plays Osamu Ino with nuance and depth. Dear Doctor is a moving and thought-provoking drama that offers a poignant reflection on the power of forgiveness and the importance of second chances.
