Sumo Do, Sumo Don’t

Film

Friday, April 10, 7 PM 
Followed by a Sumo Party 

PLEASE NOTE: To ensure the safety of all in our community, this film series and screening has been canceled and our building temporarily closed to the public. Please visit our COVID-19 page for information on ticket refunds, donations, and our virtual program initiatives.

Before receiving global acclaim for the smashing success of Shall We Dance? (1996), director Masayuki Suo had another major hit with this light-hearted comedy about a ragtag group of misfits who eventually find their self-worth by resurrecting a nearly defunct university sumo club. Gently poking fun at the outmoded traditions of Japan’s ancient sport while also celebrating its inherent values, Suo’s modern and comedic take on sumo transcends national specificity in a way that could inspire anyone to strap on a mawashi belt and step into the ring. A critical and commercial favorite, the film swept the 16th Japan Academy Prize in almost every major category.

“A hidden gem… Deftly handled and with the perfect mix of comedy and drama — and a touch of romance. The film is well worth seeking out.” –The Japan Times

1960, 1992. 105 min. 35mm, color, in Japanese with English subtitles. Directed by Masayuki Suo. With Masahiro Motoki, Misa Shimizu, Akira Emoto, Naoto Takenaka.

Tickets: $18/$15 seniors, students and persons with disabilities/$14 Japan Society members.

3-Film Pass: $2 off each ticket when you purchase three films in the same transaction.

All-Access Pass: $77 ($7 per ticket for all 11 films in the series)

This program is part of our Aim for the Best: Sports in Japanese Cinema series.

Program subject to change. For updated info and special offers, please visit: japansociety.org/film

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