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.

In our Film Club this month, we will explore the acclaimed Japanese documentary Of Love and Law directed by Hikaru Toda in 2017.

Of Love and Law (『愛と法』, Ai to ho, 2017) is a story of family, justice and love centerering around lawyers Kazu and Fumi, a same-sex couple living in Osaka and founders of the first LGBTQ+ law firm in Japan. Exploring their personal and professional lives as they strive to challenge societal norms and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, the documentary offers a personal glimpse into the struggles they and their "misfit" clients face in Japanese society.

Hikaru Toda is a talented filmmaker known for her thought-provoking and emotionally resonant documentaries. She studied performance and visual anthropology at Goldsmiths, University of London, and works as a video ethnographer and independent filmmaker. Toda's films, such as Of Love and Law (2017), often tackle themes of identity, justice, and resilience, exploring the lives of marginalized individuals and communities. With compelling storytelling and intimate approach, her work sheds light on the intricacies of the human experience, offering a unique perspective on contemporary Japanese society

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. Of Love and Law is available to rent online on the BFI Player and Amazon Prime.

• 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.