On the other side of the globe, an array of artists and activists share their experiences as Queer Japanese People. This documentary examines how a non-Western, non-Christian tradition informs the queer experience of millions of Japanese citizens:
from Erotic Mangaka to trailblazing politicians, latex drag queens to lesbian bar owners, craftswomen to historians, pups, G-men and more!
Graham Kolbeins directs this in-depth look at queerness in Japanese society. The documentary delves into the tensions and latent harmony present in the LGBTQ community of Japan, as this film examines the impact of invisibility, otherness, changing times and the return of old traditions that empower Japanese queer folk. Featuring interviews with Gengoroh Tagame (Manga artist and author of “My Brother’s Husband” and “Pride”), Aya Kamikawa (the first openly transgender elected official in Japan), Vivienne Sato (drag artist), Atsushi Masuda (Butoh dancer), and a score by Will Wiesenfeld (“Baths”). The locations showcase Japanese nightlife in places such as Bar Goldfinger and Department H.
– Timothy Morisse
