Eternally Younger Than Those Idiots, which is presented as part of The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2022, is a film that achieves a remarkable depiction of contemporary young people in Japan. The modest and non-descript synopsis and trailer are deceptive, and in watching it, the emotion of each of the characters gradually seeps through like water on paper, touching the heart of the viewers. As its director states in his video introduction, the film was aimed to present the reality that younger generations face in contemporary Japanese society.

For this special talk, The Japan Foundation has invited Director of the emotionally charged Eternally Younger Than Those Idiots, YOSHINO Ryuhei, as well as TSUMURA Kikuko, the author of the book of the same title from which this film was adapted. They will reflect on the creative process for both moving image as well as literature, while discussing how they see each other’s work.

Along with Dr Irene González-López, Lecturer at Birkbeck, University of London, who specialises in Japanese cinema, the speakers will explore how they see young people in contemporary Japan, and if creative works such as film or literature in general can have some influence on the life of youth as well as the views towards them and beyond.

This online event is free to attend but places are limited and registration is essential. To reserve your space, please book your ticket here.