Looking for something to do this weekend?
Head to Ster-Kinekor Rosebank Nouveau for the 32nd Japanese Film Festival. On offer are four films with one screening each from 13 – 16 August, and the best news – they are free!
From heartfelt dramas and inspiring true stories to an uplifting musical comedy and an enchanting animated fairytale. The 32nd Japanese Film Festival invites Johannesburg audiences to experience the beauty and diversity of contemporary Japanese cinema. The Embassy of Japan presents the festival in partnership with Ster-Kinekor.
Taking place on 13, 15 and 16 August at Ster-Kinekor Rosebank Nouveau. This year’s festival features four acclaimed Japanese films, with free admission to each of the screenings.
For more than three decades, the Japanese Film Festival has introduced audiences around the world to Japan’s rich storytelling tradition. Offering a window into the country’s culture, creativity and unique perspectives through film. This year’s carefully curated programme celebrates universal themes of resilience, family, food, community, imagination and self-discovery.
Whether you’re a dedicated fan of Japanese cinema, an anime enthusiast or simply looking to discover something different on the big screen. The festival promises a memorable cinematic experience.
Festival programme
The Dancing Okami (108 min)
Screening at 18:00 on Thursday, 13 August, The Dancing Okami. An uplifting musical comedy set in the picturesque hot spring town of Kaga. The film follows a young woman who returns home after circumstances force her to abandon her dreams of becoming a professional tap dancer. She takes over her family’s traditional inn. Here she finds an unexpected way to breathe new life into her community through the joy of dance.
The Zen Diary (111 min)
A beautifully crafted culinary drama celebrating seasonal food, nature and mindful living. The Zen Diary will have a screening at 10:30 on Saturday, 15 August. When a mountain-dwelling essayist shares meals prepared from home-grown and foraged ingredients with his editor from Tokyo, food becomes a touching expression of love, healing and human connection.
Father of the Milky Way Railroad (118 min)
Also screening on 15 August, at 14:00, is the moving biographical drama that tells the story of renowned Japanese author Miyazawa Kenji through the eyes of the father who never stopped believing in him. Based on the bestselling novel, the film is a powerful tribute to family, perseverance and the courage to follow one’s dreams.
Princess Arete (105 min)
The final film is scheduled to screen on Sunday 16 August at 14:00. Princess Arete is a thoughtful, animated feature that reimagines the classic fairytale. Rather than waiting for someone to rescue her, Princess Arete questions the world around her and embarks on a journey of curiosity, independence and self-discovery in this beautifully crafted story for older children, families and animation lovers alike.
Audiences can attend all four screenings for free but must collect a ticket to secure a seat. These will be available at Ster-Kinekor Rosebank Nouveau box office from one hour before each screening. And will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is unreserved, and audiences are encouraged to arrive early, as screenings are expected to fill up quickly.
The festival offers Johannesburg audiences a rare opportunity to enjoy contemporary Japanese filmmaking on the big screen. Bringing together stories that entertain, inspire and provide fascinating insights into one of the world’s most celebrated cinematic cultures.
More information can be found on the Ster-Kinekor website at www.sterkinekor.com or download the SK App on your smartphone. For news and updates, go to Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | follow Ster-Kinekor on Twitter: @Ster-Kinekor. For all queries, call Ticketline on 0861-Movies (668 437).
