Experience the Captivating Film 'Gou' at the 47th Pia Film Festival

Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience as the film 'Gou' earns a spot at the prestigious 47th Pia Film Festival. On September 6th (Saturday) and September 16th (Tuesday), we are thrilled to invite the first 20 attendees for free screenings, an opportunity not to be missed!

How to Apply

To secure your spot, please reach out via email with your full name, number of attendees, preferred date, and contact information. After enjoying 'Gou', we encourage you to share your thoughts by tagging #映画郷 on social media, helping to spread the word about this groundbreaking film. We look forward to your applications!

A Unique Visual Experience

Directed by Takuro Iijima, a graduate of the Beijing Film Academy’s directing program, 'Gou' is a remarkable debut feature. This film took almost a decade to materialize from concept to completion, displaying the characteristics of an 'extreme' independent movie. In 2024, it made headlines by being nominated for the Shanghai International Film Festival as the youngest Japanese entrant, gaining immense attention from industry professionals.

One of the film's most striking features is the stunning sunrise scene, meticulously crafted over a month to embody visual beauty and immersive storytelling. We urge everyone to experience this captivating ambiance firsthand at the festival!

Story Overview

At its core, 'Gou' delves into the life of a high school baseball player named Gaku, who has been tirelessly pursuing his childhood dream of becoming a professional athlete. Just as his hard work begins to bear fruit, he is confronted with harsh realities that challenge his ambitions. Through changing seasons and trials in life, Gaku navigates his journey within the expansive beauty of nature that profoundly influences his path.

Awards and Recognitions

'Gou' has already begun to amass accolades, having been officially selected for various prestigious film festivals, including:

- 2024 Shanghai International Film Festival – New Asian Talent Competition
- 2024 Chongqing 35mm Critics' Week – Best Film
- 2024 Beijing International Film Festival – Official Screening
- 2025 Nippon Connection in Germany – Official Selection
- Selected for the Pia Film Festival in September 2025

This film is not just a tale of ambition and nature, but also a reflection on how we navigate life in a competitive society, urging audiences to engage with their feelings beyond verbal communication.