The second film in the film season A restless curiosity about human nature is one of the director’s most acclaimed works.

The Insect Woman (1963) tells the story of women across three generations, through their experiences with sex, survival, and shifting social roles.

Born in 1918 to a farming family in the rural Tōhoku region of northwestern Japan, Matsuki Tome is forced into an arranged marriage with the wealthy Honda family. After giving birth to a daughter, Nobuko, she runs away and heads to Tokyo, where she begins working as a maid and later at a brothel, eventually taking clients herself. After earning enough money, she brings Nobuko from the countryside to join her. However, Tome is arrested for prostitution and, upon completing her sentence, returns to find that her daughter has become the mistress of her former patron.

Insect Woman is named after its female protagonists, who navigate their way through life with the toughness, determination and vitality of insects.

The screenings are in Japanese with English subtitles. Duration: approx. 123 mins

*Please note that this movie is rated 15 and is therefore not considered suitable for an audience younger than 15 years old

Guests who are booked to attend the screening can also enjoy 10% off drinks at the Stand on their way in.

*Please note that filming and / or photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.