#Japan #Chofu #Youth 18x2 #Hiroko Maeda #Chofu Cinema

Experience the Unifying Power of Film at the Universal Screening of 'Youth 18x2: The Path to You'

In a heartwarming effort to promote a more inclusive society, Chofu City Cultural and Community Promotion Foundation is hosting a universal screening of the film 'Youth 18x2: The Path to You' on August 9, 2025. Directed by the talented Michio Fujii, this film has not only garnered attention in Japan but has also made its mark across Asia, becoming the highest-grossing live-action Japanese film ever released in Vietnam. This screening is one of the highlights of the Chofu Cinema Festival, a celebration dedicated to the art of filmmaking and the artists behind it.

An Engaging Post-Screening Talk Show

Following the screening, attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage in a talk show with the film's producer, Hiroko Maeda. Moderated by Associate Professor Akiko Kurata from Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, the discussion will delve into topics such as the journey of creating this collaborative film between Japan and Taiwan, along with captivating anecdotes from the film’s production set. This intimate setting provides an ideal opportunity for film enthusiasts to gain deeper insights into the film-making process and the challenges faced by the creators.

Event Details

©2024 'Youth 18x2' Film Partners

• - Film Information: 'Youth 18x2: The Path to You' (2024, 123 minutes, Blu-Ray format)
• - Director: Michio Fujii
• - Cast: Shuu Guanhan, Kaho Shibuya, Shunsuke Michieda, Hana Kuroki, and more.
• - Date and Time: August 9, 2025, at 16:00
• - Venue: Chofu City Cultural Hall, Kusunoki Hall

Ticket Prices: 800 yen (advance), 1000 yen (at the door), 500 yen (U29 discount), and 500 yen off for disabled persons.

Supportive Viewing Experience

The universal screening aims to ensure all audiences can comfortably enjoy the film, offering a variety of support services. Attendees can look forward to Japanese subtitles, an audio guide via the 'UDCast' app, an FM group hearing assistance system, wheelchair spaces, and childcare services. In addition, the talk show will provide sign language interpretation and real-time text support in both Japanese and English.

About Hiroko Maeda

Hiroko Maeda, a prominent film producer and CEO of Alchemy Productions, has a notable background in the entertainment industry. She began her career in music production for international artists such as Madonna and Michael Jackson before transitioning to film and television. Notable productions include television dramas, such as Koki Mitani’s classics 'Furuhata Ninzaburo' and 'Don't Call Me Prime Minister', with her debut as a film producer rooted in Iwai Shunji's 'Swallowtail' in 1997. Ms. Maeda has continued to create impactful films, collaborating internationally on projects like 'Kill Bill' and '2046'. Since 2022, she has been with BABEL LABEL, producing the Taiwanese co-production, 'Youth 18x2: The Path to You', achieving notable success with a box office of 2.7 billion yen across ten Asian markets.

About the Chofu Cinema Festival

The Chofu Cinema Festival is a unique film festival in Chofu City, celebrating the talents of filmmakers and the growth of film culture within this vibrant community. Throughout the festival, various events like award ceremonies, filmmaker talks, film screenings, and workshops led by professional staff will nurture and promote appreciation for cinema. The festival aims to provide opportunities for the public to engage with film culture throughout the year, with various related screenings and events.
Come join us for an enlightening experience filled with creativity, inspiration, and community spirit focused on the heart of film artistry!