"Let's Go Karaoke!" "Let's Go Karaoke!"

The UK's largest Japanese film festival is back this month

Daniel Sheppard, Content Writer UK, Thatsup Daniel Sheppard, Content Writer UK, Thatsup
Daniel Sheppard

The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2025 (JFTFP25), the UK's largest festival dedicated to Japanese cinema, is set to return across multiple cities from 7 February to 31 March. This year's edition explores the theme of “Justice, Justification and Judgement in Japanese Cinema,” showcasing a diverse selection of films that tackle crime, morality, and societal values. 

London will play a major role in this year's festival, with screenings at the Institute of Contemporary Arts from 7 to 16 February and at Riverside Studios from 21 February to 4 March. Audiences can look forward to films like “The Moon”, a chilling drama inspired by real-life crimes against disabled individuals, and “Tea Friends”, which sheds light on loneliness among Japan's elderly population. Also featured is “Bushido”, a samurai drama about honour and revenge, and “Let's Go Karaoke!”, a comedic take on yakuza life through the lens of a high-stakes singing contest.

“Bushido”

JFTFP25 offers an extensive range of films that interrogate justice, morality, and human behaviour, making it one of the most compelling film festivals of the year and an unmissable opportunity for film enthusiasts eager to explore Japan's rich cinematic landscape.

You can find out more about the festival and book tickets here

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