Celebrate Pride  this summer by watching some films that look at LGBTQ diversity in Japan.  Free admission, registration required for each film below

Hush! ハッシュ! 

June 22, 2018 6:30 PM  &   July 12, 2018 1:00 PM 

Directed by Ryosuke Hashiguchi [2001] 135 min.

Naoya and his partner Katsuhiro  receive a proposition from Asako, who they met by chance: would they father her child through artificial insemination? As they clash with their families, Naoya and Katsuhiro find their own new vision of a family. details >

TABOO 御法度 

June 23, 2018 3:00 PM 

Directed by Nagisa Oshima [1999] 100 min.

In this last film by Japanese master director Nagisa Oshima, the story unveils taboo same-sex relations in the Shinsengumi during the mid-19th century Bakumatsu period, the end of the Samurai era. Starring Ryuhei Matsuda, Takeshi Kitano and Tadanobu Asano, with music by Ryuichi Sakamoto.  details >

Lily Festival 百合祭 

June 26, 2018 6:30 PM  &  July 16, 2018 1:00 PM

Directed by Sachi Hamano [2001] 100 min.

Delightful romantic complications are stirred up with the arrival of a 75-year-old Casanova, Mr. Miyoshi, at a senior citizens’ apartment building. Six other apartment mates, who range in age from 69 to 91, find their lives forever transformed by his flattery and sexual attentions. Lily Festival celebrates golden girls who are bold and overflowing with energy and who find that there is sex after 60. details >

Kakera: A Piece of our life カケラ 

July 20, 2018 6:30 PM

Directed by Momoko Ando [2009] 107 min.

A bitter-sweet coming-of-age relationship between two young women, Haru (Hikari Mitsushima) and Riko (Eriko Nakamura) who become lovers in this tale of finding love and identity. Story by  Erica Sakurazawa, music is by James Iha (Smashing Pumpkins).   details >

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.