This film serves as a poignant reminder of the power of love and acceptance, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in heartfelt dramas with a touch of social relevance.
Bashment (2010)
Bashment is a film directed by Rikki Beadle-Blair, a prominent British playwright, screenwriter, and director known for his thought-provoking and socially relevant works.
Takeshi Dylan Sadachi
(佐立武士) Born in 1997, Takeshi spent their childhood in Connecticut before attending high school in both Japan and the U.S. After studying at Waseda University and SOAS University of London, they have worked as an editor for a fashion news outlet and culture magazine. The film’s emotional depth and its portrayal of diverse characters make it a thought-provoking and engaging cinematic experience.
If you’re looking for a film that challenges societal norms, celebrates the importance of acceptance, and reminds us of the transformative power of love, then Close-Knit is a must-see.
The film’s setting becomes an integral part of the narrative, creating a rich backdrop against which the story unfolds.
Bashment is a film that deserves attention for its powerful storytelling and meaningful exploration of identity. She’ll leave everything behind and befriend one of the actresses for whom she’ll develop romantic feelings.
Oshima’s direction skillfully balances the emotional depth of the story with its larger social and political implications. Don’t miss this cinematic gem that has rightfully earned its place as a significant milestone in Japanese cinema.
With the rise of the Pride Parade in Tokyo’s Shibuya and Harajuku, to the pressure on the Tokyo Government to officially recognize same-sex partnerships, there’s a lot to celebrate in Japan.
And Toko (Toko Narushima), a housewife who has an affair with a scam artist.
Suo gained international recognition for his critically acclaimed film Shall We Dance? Tajiri’s sensitive direction and the powerful performances of the cast make for a compelling cinematic experience. His cinema surely represents a must-watch as he’s a pioneer in exploring LGBT+ topics on the screen.
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Released in 2020, the live-action film centers on Kyouichi Ootomo, an unfaithful office worker. The film became a cult of indie queer movies thanks to its photography. Through stunning visuals and meticulous attention to detail, Suo transports the audience into the enchanting world of maikos, bringing Kyoto to life on the screen.
The film blends comedy, drama, and romance flawlessly, creating an enjoyable and uplifting experience for viewers.
Kusanagi stars as Nagisa, a nightclub worker who takes in her teenage niece after the girl’s alcoholic mother is reported for abuse.The film centers burgeoning relationship between the two as they discover shared passions and forms of expression.
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Kakera: A Piece of Our Life (2009)
Director: Momoko Ando
Director Momoko Ando’s first feature film, A Piece of Our Life, got audiences talking in 2009 for its portrayal of same-sex relationships and unorthodox cinematography.
Love My Life, released in 2006, stands as one of his notable contributions to the world of cinema.
The film revolves around the life of Ichiko (played by Rei Yoshii), a university student who is discovering her own identity and coming to terms with her sexuality. As the protagonists go after what they want, fast and ambitiously, 800 Two Lap Runners is an authentic story where sports play (pun intended) as the narrative background.
One of his most famous works, Hiroki Ryuki’s film handles queerness with a genuine touch.
Much like Hashiguchi’s previous works, such as A Touch of Fever and Hush — both of which featured gay men — the film weaves the loneliness and fragility of each character through their muted desperation.
Watch now onAmazon
Get even more involved with Japanese LGBTQ+ Culture:
LGBTQ+ Anime That Strive To Get It Right Based in Japan: Life as a Married Gay Couple With Seigo & Bren Trans Youth in Japan: A Documentary Highlighting Their Struggles and Triumphs
Kalanchoe no Hana (2018)
Director: Shun Nakagawa
Independent film director Shun Nakagawa snatched 13 awards at various Japanese film festivals.
You can find them on instagram at @takeshiordylan
A Guide to Japanese Queer Films
As of 2016, Japan has six yearly queer film festivals, bringing LGBT+ stories across the nation: from Aomori to Kagawa.