Get ready for a jam-packed schedule full of drama, adventure and romance.
The Japanese Film Festival is almost here, and they’ve released their massive line-up to get you excited. Returning to the cinema for its 25th year, this festival showcases the latest and greatest in Japanese cinema. Find spectacular Japanese films at the Kino Cinemas or at ACMI from November 18 to December 5.
Japanese Film Festival
The festival will kick off with a screening of Hokusai on Thursday November 18. Directed by Hajime Hashimoto, this period drama follows the life of the legendary ukiyo-e artist. This dramatic film was based on Hokusai’s life, and was shaped by research from historical documents.
Anime lovers will be thrilled to know that the Japanese Film Festival will be screening high fantasy adventure film, The Deer King. This animated film, directed by Masashi Andō, is an adaptation of Nahoko Uehashi’s novel series of the same name. The Deer King is set in a fantasy world set years after a vicious war, in which a deadly disease runs rampant.
Meanwhile, Poupelle of Chimney Town is another animated feature film. It follows the story of a young chimney sweep, who embarks on an adventure in search of the stars as a way to escape the dystopian metropolis of his world.
Cinephiles will also love True Mothers, which was shown at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2020. Critically acclaimed director Naomi Kawase was at the helm of this film, crafting a powerful and emotionally intense drama about motherhood.
On the other hand, for something more romantic, try Hold Me Back by Akiko Ōku. This romantic comedy follows the life of happily single Mitsuko. However, when she starts to feel attracted to awkward salesman Tada-kun, she experiences a chaotic inner battle between choosing the single life or pursuing a romantic relationship. This film was a winner at both the 2020 Tokyo International Film Festival and the 2021 Japan Movie Critics Award.
This was just a taste of all the films on offer at the Japanese Film Festival. Discover the full schedule here.