Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Self-harm, child abuse themes in touching Japanese drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Light of My Lion
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In LIGHT OF MY LION, Hiroto (Yuya Yagira, The Asakusa Kid) and his brother Michie (Ryota Bando) live an orderly life, though they've lost their parents and Hiroto must take care of his brother, who's been diagnosed with autism. Hiroto works in social services, helping people all day, and he comes home to his Michie, who also needs special help. One day a child appears at their doorstep; he insists that he's meant to live in their home. Hiroto must decide where this little boy, who goes by the name Lion, should live. Will he send him to the police, or will he make a more difficult decision?
Is It Any Good?
This touching, at times troubling, portrait of a special family highlights the strength that comes from deep compassion for others. Excellent acting in an everyday setting allows the extraordinary circumstances of Light of My Lion to shine through.
The show does address themes of loss, domestic violence, and child abuse, so it's not without mature themes. But much of the story occurs before the show begins, allowing for a mystery to unfold. Great for families of teens who like elevated dramas.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about compassion in Light of My Lion. How does the main character's compassion for his brother on the autism spectrum help him have compassion for people in pain? What experiences have deepened you and allowed you to have more compassion for others?
One of the characters in this show has a limited ability to communicate. How do other characters adjust their observations to understand his communication? What cues do you look for when people are communicating with you?
The main character, Hiroto, is a caregiver for younger family members. How does his integrity guide him to make good decisions? How do you depend on your integrity when you face challenges?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 17, 2025
- Cast : Yuya Yagira , Ryota Bando , Tasuku Sato
- Network : HBO Max
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Family Stories , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Integrity
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : November 12, 2025
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