This intriguing new film by gifted Japanese writer-director Kōji Fukada (Harmonium; Love Life; festival guest 2023) follows Mai, a rising J-Pop idol in girl band Happyfanfare, and her journey from fantasy to harsh reality. When Mai’s romantic relationship with former classmate Kei goes public, her career collapses, entangled in a public trial for violating the so-called ‘no dating’ clause in her management contract. Inspired by real lawsuits, the film exposes a controlling, exploitative industry where a glittering world of young female idols are marketed as a fantasy of ‘purity and virginity’. With former idol Kyoko Saito in the lead role, the film has an authenticity and emotional resonance that offers powerful commentary on the complexities of idol culture and personal freedom, both in Japanese society, and more globally.

The screening will be introduced by Dr Kim-Marie Spence (School of Arts, English and Languages, Queen’s University Belfast).

Notes by Marie-Pierre Richard