Do you love Japanese film classics, anime or contemporary cinema stories? Do you miss Japan and want to see it at least on screen? Would you like to learn and discuss about Japanese culture and society? The Japan Society Film Club is an online space to chat about films and Japan in an informal atmosphere.

For our Film Club in August, we invite you to watch the emblematic anti-war film Twenty-Four Eyes directed by Keisuke Kinoshita in 1954.

Twenty-Four Eyes (『二十四の瞳』, Niju-shi no Hitomi, 1954) is a poignant Japanese film directed by Kinoshita Keisuke. Based on the 1952 homonymous novel by Sakae Tsuboi, it tells the story of Miss Oishi (Hideko Takamine), a dedicated schoolteacher in a small rural village, and her 12 students. Spanning from pre-World War II to post-war reconstruction, the film explores the socio-political changes in Japan and the profound impact of war and personal loss on the lives of ordinary people. With its emotional depth, exquisite cinematography, and powerful performances, Twenty-Four Eyes is moving portrayal of human resilience and the enduring power of education and friendship.

Keisuke Kinoshita (1912-1998) was a prominent Japanese filmmaker known for his sensitive storytelling and exploration of social issues. Beginning as an assistant director for Yasujiro Shimazu and Kozaburo Yoshimura, he later was promoted to director in the 1940s. His films, such as Carmen Comes Home (1951), Japan's first colour feature, Twenty-Four Eyes (1954), and The Ballad of Narayama (1958), garnered critical acclaim for their portrayal of humanistic themes and the effects of war. Kinoshita's work captured the intricacies of Japanese society, delving into the complexities of relationships and the struggles of individuals against societal norms. Lesser-known internationally than some other filmmakers from the postwar Golden age of Japanese cinema, he left behind a remarkable cinematic legacy and is one of the most celebrated directors in Japan.

Japan Society Film Clubs take place on the first Wednesday of the month. We recommend a film to watch in advance and meet online to discuss. Films are often available online for free, to rent or with subscription, on DVD/Blu Ray or on BFI player. The event is open to all and we encourage participants to freely express their opinions and feelings about the films.

If you have any questions, please call the Japan Society office on 020 3075 1996 or email events@japansociety.org.uk.

Booking Info

Please remember to watch the film in advance. Twenty-Four Eyes is available to watch online (or download with subscription) on Asian Movies and to rent or buy on Chili.

• You should receive an automated email from the Japan Society to let you know that your booking request has been registered. Please note that your booking is pending while we check your details and you will receive a further email once your booking is confirmed.
  
  
• For online events, we will send you the zoom links and details to attend the event closer to the date.
  
  
• If you don't receive any confirmation emails or links, please check your spam folder or email events@japansociety.org.uk.