Kou Shibasaki (27) has found her next starring role in the movie "Shokudo Katatsumuri." It is the second feature-length film from director Mai Tominaga, who got her start doing TV commercials.

"Shokudo Katatsumuri" is based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Ito Ogawa. Using food as its theme, it depicts the relationship between a mother and daughter.

Shibasaki plays a young woman who was so heartbroken that she lost her voice. She returns home to her free-spirited mother (Kimiko Yo), whom she has never been close to. With her cooking skills, she decides to open a small restaurant that accepts only one reservation per day, putting all her effort into preparing a meal that will make her customers happy.

Tomokazu Miura and Brother Tom are among the supporting cast members, playing quirky characters. The movie is also said to have a fantasy touch, with animated/CG scenes and musical sequences.

Filming began in May and is expected to finish in late June. The release date for "Shokudo Katatsumuri" is currently set for 2010.