Shohei Ohtani

This film is an intimate and moving cinematic record of Shohei Ohtani's journey to MLB stardom. A faithful portrait of his talent development and battle with injuries, and his unique mindset to become a superstar ballplayer breaking all the barriers of race, language, discipline, and culture.

In 2025, as MLB's Dodgers and Cubs clash in Tokyo for a historic season opener, their games become a lens into Japan's passionate baseball culture and the values that bind two nations through America's pastime.

Chronicling Ohtani's upbringing in Japan and continuing through present day as Major League Baseball's reigning American League MVP, SEARCHING FOR SHOHEI intimately details Ohtani's origin story and unique path to becoming one of the game's biggest stars. Throughout the interview, Verlander, in parallel with his one-on-one discussion with Ohtani, shares his own first-hand experience from a 10-day visit to Japan where he takes in the culture and disciplined lifestyle that shaped Ohtani into the player he is today: MVP, All-Star, Silver Slugger and former Rookie of the Year.

In December 2021, Hideki Kuriyama began devoting his days to one singular goal: hoisting the championship trophy at the 2023 World Baseball Classic. How did he mold his players into one of the best and strongest Samurai Japan teams in history? A close-up documentary that looks back on Samurai Japan's path to becoming world champions, along with valuable behind-the-scenes footage captured by the team's dedicated crew.

Baseball is life for the die-hard competitors in Koshien, Japan’s national high school baseball championship, whose alumni include US baseball stars Shohei Ohtani and former Yankee Hideki Matsui. As popular as America’s World Series, the stakes are beyond high in this single-elimination tournament. For Coach Mizutani, cleaning the grounds and greeting guests are equally important as honing baseball skills, however, demonstrating discipline, sacrifice and unwavering dedication. Director Ema Ryan Yamazaki follows Mizutani and his team on their quest to win the 100th annual Koshien, and, in the process, goes beyond baseball to reveal the heart of the Japanese national character.

Experience the battle of juggernauts like never before as the Yankees and Dodgers revive MLB's most iconic playoff rivalry. With intimate access to superstar players, managers, and their families, witness the sacrifices it takes to claim baseball's throne.