Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2021 To Include Animated Film “HELLO WORLD”

The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme, a programme which would usually see a variety of Japanese produced films shown in selective cinemas across the UK, have recently announced that this years event will be held online, for FREE, between to the 19th February 2021 and 10th March 2021. In addition to the event moving digitally for 2021 the website has updated with a list of films that are expected to be shown, one of which is ITO Tomohiko’s animated feature-length film HELLO WORLD.

Released in 2019 in Japan, and animated by Graphinica, HELLO WORLD is a sci-fi styled love story that sees two characters attempt to grow closer and show their affection in a world powered through technology. The film will be presented in Japanese with English subtitles.

About HELLO WORLD:
Set against the backdrop of 2027 Kyoto which shows the effects of massive technological advancement, the story follows a bookish high-schooler, Naomi (voiced by KITAMURA Takumi), who adores his classmate Ruri (voiced by HAMABE Minami) from afar, too shy to approach her. One day, Naomi meets a mysterious man who claims to be his future self. The visitor also delivers a world-shattering revelation – the teenage Naomi’s reality is nothing more than a virtual simulation of the past and he has come to alter it. Specifically, he wants to prevent a tragedy that is inevitably to befall Ruri, the future love of his life. The two team up and, under the visitor’s tutelage, Naomi slowly gains Ruri’s affection. But the adult Naomi hides a secret agenda..

Screening times and dates for HELLO WORLD, along with the other films, will be announced at a later date on the official website but the latest details are expected to be shared through social media.

Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2021 will be available between 19th February 2021 and 10th March 2021 and it is expected that a different film will be streamed each day through the website. Further information about this event, as well as availability and timings, can be found on the official website.