This intriguing new film by gifted Japanese writer-director Kōji Fukada (HARMONIUM; LOVE LIFE; EAFFI festival guest 2023) follows Mai, a rising J-Pop idol in girlband 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’.

(Marie-Pierre Richard for EAFFI Discoveries)

The screening will be introduced by Dr. Till Weingärtner.

Part of East Asia Film Festival Ireland.