#Japan #Kagoshima #Natsuka Ogawa #Gou #Letheany&Co.

Celebrating Natsuka Ogawa: A Pioneering Filmmaker

Natsuka Ogawa, an innovative female filmmaker from Kagoshima, has recently achieved significant recognition by receiving the prestigious "Shining Woman Award" from the International Soroptimist Club of Kagoshima. This award honors women who contribute positively to their communities, showcasing Ogawa as a leader who bridges local culture with global perspectives.

Having moved to Aira City in Kagoshima, Ogawa established Letheany&Co., where she focuses on producing unique films that connect her local roots with international audiences. Her commitment to nurturing new talent and fostering creativity has made her a prominent figure in the film industry, especially as she empowers the next generation of female leaders.

Her latest project, the film "Gou" (VICISSITUDE), which she produced and is directed by the promising young filmmaker Takuro Ichichi, has received multiple nominations and awards, including:

• - Official nomination in the Asian Newcomer section at the Shanghai International Film Festival
• - Best Award at the Chongqing 35mm Critics Week
• - Designation as a Ministry of Education and Culture-selected film for use in human rights education programs at schools nationwide.

The accolades reflect the film's innovative storytelling technique that minimizes dialogue and relies heavily on visuals, sound, rhythm, and sensation. This artistic approach leading to a "heartfelt cinematic experience" is notable in the film industry, and has drawn significant international attention.

Ogawa’s aspirations don’t stop here. She plans to further promote "Gou" on the international stage while also initiating new projects based in Kagoshima that merge film production with education and regional advancement.

Sneak Preview Alert!

Ogawa will host a special preview screening of "Gou" exclusively for media representatives on June 17, 2025, at TOHO Cinemas Roppongi Hills, featuring a Q&A session with the director. Interested parties should contact Letheany&Co. for reservations by providing their name, company, number of participants, and whether they will cover the event.

Event Details:

• - Date: June 17, 2025
• - Time: 2:30 PM (Includes Director's Greeting)
• - Location: TOHO Cinemas, Roppongi Hills
• - Eligibility: Media personnel by invitation only

For inquiries, please reach out at:

• - Phone: 0995-70-1622
• - Email: [email protected]

About Natsuka Ogawa

Natsuka Ogawa, originally from Kumamoto Prefecture and now residing in Kagoshima, is the founder of Letheany&Co. She graduated from Doshisha University with a degree in law before beginning her career in the entertainment industry as an actress. Ogawa appeared in popular TV dramas such as "Nobunaga Concerto" and "Detective 7," before transitioning to filmmaking. In 2019, she took her passion further by studying film at the Beijing Film Academy. Upon returning to Japan, she dedicated herself to film production, seeking to innovate and inspire through her work in Kagoshima's regional film scene.

With a vision that intertwines education and culture through cinema, Ogawa continues to pave the way for future filmmakers while bringing local stories to the forefront of international cinema.