2024 Chicago Japan Film Collective
Full Lineup Announced!
Greetings from beautiful Chicago, where fall is in full bloom!
We are delighted to announce the full lineup for the 2024 Chicago Japan Film Collective (CJFC). This year’s festival, centered around the theme of ‘Co-existence,’ will feature 11 films, including 2 theater screenings and 9 online, with 6 international premieres, 3 U.S. premieres, and 2 North American premieres. Notably, 3 films are directed by women, emphasizing diverse voices in Japanese cinema.
Opening Night Feature: HOUSE OF SAYURI
U.S.Premiere
(In-theater screening) Tickets are on sale now!
Join us on November 17th (Sunday) at 7 PM for the highly anticipated opening night at the Music Box Theatre (700 seats), featuring House of Sayuri. Directed by SHIRAISHI Koji, a master of the horror genre, this film brilliantly blends horror, comedy, action, family coming-of-age, and romance into one seamless narrative. Shiraishi has successfully created a fresh take on the horror genre, pushing boundaries and redefining what it can be. Don’t miss this unique and unforgettable cinematic experience!
Online Screenings and Festival Collaborations
In a new 2024 collaboration, we are excited to partner with the SAKKA platform, offering a broader reach and opening opportunities for U.S. distribution. The online lineup consists of two documentaries and seven feature films, ensuring accessibility for audiences nationwide.
For the second year, CJFC X will spotlight films from collaborations with Japanese festivals. This year’s selection includes 99% Cloudy… Always from the Tanabe Benkei Film Festival and Esper X Private Detective Agency – Searching for Good-Bye – from the Jimbocho Movie Festival (JMF).
For more information, please visit our official website at www.cjfc.us.
FUKUMA Kenji Memorial Spotlight
Also this year’s festival features the FUKUMA Kenji Memorial Spotlight, honoring the late director with a special screening of his final work, Not Born Yesterday. Fukuma, a gifted filmmaker, poet, and critic, left a profound impact on both film and literature. His films offer deep insights into human connection and society. We are proud to present his final masterpiece to U.S. audiences, celebrating his life and lasting legacy.
Virtual Screenings (U.S. Nationwide: 11/14 – 11/24) Ticket Information
ALL-VIRTUAL ACCESS PASS (Access to all 9 online screenings): $30
3 VIRTUAL TICKET BUNDLE (Access to 3 online screenings): $20
SINGLE VIRTUAL TICKET (Access to one online screening): $12
*Early Bird Discount (until 11/7): $2 off with code CJFC2024EB
Closing Night Feature: QUALIA
(In-theater screening)
On November 24th, Qualia, directed by USHIMARU Ryo, will close the festival. Ushimaru, who is also an accomplished actor, presents a thoughtful exploration of personal and emotional landscapes. The film’s introspective tone offers a contemplative conclusion to this year’s festival.
Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive events. See you at the festival!