Happyend

Sociopolitical issues and a thoughtful coming-of-age story meet in charming fashion in HAPPYEND, Neo Sora’s first fiction film. In a Japan of the near future, major earthquake threats loom over the country, with cell phone alerts the only possible warning. At the same time, a lively group of five high school friends are determined to enjoy every moment of their graduation year, even if it means breaking the rules of social order. When the police crash an unauthorised techno event, lifelong friends Yuta and Kou manage to escape, heading to their school with their pals to keep the party going, but the practical joke that damages their principal’s brand new car has serious consequences. A new facial-recognition security system is installed, jeopardising the freedoms enjoyed by the students, who ultimately call for rebellion. While Kou engages in the protests, Yuta dwells in indifference, and they slowly drift apart. With an understated style, Sora sensitively captures the transition from adolescence to adulthood, revealing all the troubled beauty of this life changing phase; hopes, dreams, anger and a melancholy sense of loss that is deeply touching. (Maria Giovanna Vagenas) 

In the presence of Neo Sora.

Neo Sora: THE CHICKEN (2020, K), SUGAR GLASS BOTTLE (2022, K), RYUICHI SAKAMOTO: OPUS (2023)