A collection of documentaries that seeks to generate debate around popular conceptions of gender expression, challenging commonly-accepted standards of bodily beauty.
Total Runtime: 105 min
The programme is followed by a Q&A with Shinjuku Boys director Kim Longinotto.
Shinjuku Boys
The Shinjuku Boys are three onnabe - Japanese women who live as men - working as hosts at a Tokyo nightclub for female clients. They dress like men and behave like men, a lifestyle that is not appreciated in Japan. Filmed at home and at work, they speak frankly about their lives, their hopes and their sexuality. Gaish acts tough and has many girlfriends, but in his heart, he is afraid of becoming lonely. Tatsu lives with his girlfriend. Kazuki has a relationship with a man who has chosen to live as a woman. The young women who come to the club often have relationships with the boys, but their underlying fear is whether such a relationship can withstand the pressures on a girl to get married and have children. This documentary from 1995 explores the complexities of sexuality in modern Japan.
Dir Kim Longinotto, Jano Williams | 1995 | UK, Japan | 53 min
FATbulous Me
‘Being fat’ often has negative connotations and is seen as a state that needs to be changed. Amy and Mallie suffered much frustration before learning to live in harmony with their bodies and advocating for body equality.
Dir Chia-Hsuan Tsai | Taiwan | 2021 | 19 min
Moving in Between
This documentary follows Erika’s gender transition as she moves between Taiwan and Japan, and undergoes sex reassignment surgery. Moving in Between illuminates the journeys of transgender people fighting their way through the social system.
Dir Chia-Hsuan Tsai | Taiwan | 2019 | 32 min
Fancy seeing more? Simply buy a “QE2021 X THH Pass” that gives you full access to the five programmes and Q&As at Queer East 2021 hosted at The Horse Hospital, plus 10% off drinks.
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