Greetings

AQFF was born in 2007. It was launched with the aim of introducing selected queer films from Asia, especially independent films, and through that process, learning more about Japan and the world.  The power of independent films lies in the lack of constraints on their content, allowing for freer expression. From queer film to Asian queer film to independent Asian queer film, step by step our destination became clearer… and led us to the close and familiar environment of Asia, where we found many works by film makers we deeply identified with. Compared with works from Europe and America, chances to make and screen Asian queer films are strikingly limited. As a result, bringing these works to the attention of the public can be difficult. In terms of independent and commercial films, technical issues might seem to suffer by comparison, but there really is little difference when watching. Queer cultures throughout the world currently have a strong “western” image, but in Asia, compared to the west, there still exists harsh repression. We present these independent Asian queer films with the hope that they will provoke a reconsideration of the image of sexual minorities in Japanese society, and in other Asian countries. We believe that the works are of great significance and for that reason have chosen to feature them in a film festival devoted to queer Asian films. In fact, AQFF is the only film festival focusing on these films so it is important event, too. One of the roles of AQFF is to provide a venue to introduce audiences to these crucial cultural productions. Another role is to uncover new talent. That is, we are not just interested in showing films concerned with sexual minorities but also want to give you cinematic works that are brilliant as “films”. That is, the films shown at AQFF were selected for their power to stir the hearts of viewers, jolt the soul, and open up a new door. We wanted you to see films full of such feeling that, at the same time, are an encounter with some very talented directors. Those of us who assume the role of showcasing Asian Queer films know that bringing them to the public isn’t easy, but for the sake of talented queer writers in Asia, we approach the task with energy. AQFF treasures the directors who have produced these films.  Each little work found at the end of the selection process now takes wing into the world and people’s hearts as a unique film experience. We believe that, finally, it will be film experiences like these that break down the barriers between us.

(iri & Nagi, AQFF Representatives)

Venues

KINEATTIC

2-27-3-1F

Jingu-mae,_Shibuya-ku,_Tokyo

Tel＆Fax:_03(5411)8053

http://www.kineattic.com/

KINEATTIC: A gallery specializing in independent films and videos

In this era of independent movie production and increasing use of digital video cameras,

ATTIC encourages new artists to freely experiment with innovative works by providing a cozy, artsy space to show them in.