Shunga: The Lost Japanese Erotica

『春の画 SHUNGA』
Haru no e SHUNGA

North American Premiere. A lush documentary on the past, present and future of sexually explicit art prints known as shunga. Framed by director Junko Hirata, the film connects with the human stories behind the creation and preservation of erotic prints, woven together with Japanese history, culture and craftsmanship. Shunga: The Lost Japanese Erotica takes what could be a taboo subject and presents a proud tale spanning centuries, and celebrates this unique and captivating expression of Japanese art. Further, listen for this year’s JAPAN CUTS CUT ABOVE Award Winner Mirai Moriyama, who brings many examples of shunga to life with narration together with actress Yo Yoshida. Recommended for mature audiences.

Dir. Junko Hirata, 2023, 121 min., DCP, color, in Japanese with English subtitles. With Tadanori Yokoo, Makoto Aida, Ryoko Kimura, Mirai Moriyama, Yo Yoshida.

Part of JAPAN CUTS: Festival of New Japanese Film 2024
July 10—21, 2024

JAPAN CUTS is the largest showcase of contemporary Japanese cinema in North America and an annual highlight of New York’s cinema scene.

Image: © 2023 “SHUNGA the Lost Japanese Erotica” FILM PARTNERS.

Japan Society programs are made possible by leadership support from Booth Ferris Foundation and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Film programs are generously supported by ORIX Corporation USA, public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, Anime NYC and Yen Press. Endowment support is provided by the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Endowment Fund and The John and Miyoko Davey Endowment Fund. Additional season support is provided by The Globus Family and Friends of Film. Transportation assistance is provided by Japan Airlines, the official Japanese airline sponsor of Japan Society Film. Housing assistance is provided by the Prince Kitano New York, the official hotel sponsor of Japan Society Film.