BFF – Of Love and Law

Film Hub NI are very pleased to present Japanese documentary, Of Love and Law.

Calling in at Fermanagh Film Club, Dungannon Film Club, Subterranean Film Club (Omagh) and The Black Box Belfast (as part of Belfast Film Festival), this important and moving film brings to light the hidden stories of people who are silenced and made invisible by Japanese society and its laws.

Fumi and Kazu are partners in love and law; they run the first law firm in Japan set up by an openly gay couple. As lawyers driven by their own experience of being ​outsiders​, they attract a range of clients who reveal the ​hidden diversity of a country that prides itself for collective obedience, politeness and conformity. Tired of being silenced and made to feel invisible, ​the lawyers and their misfit clients expose and challenge the archaic status quo that deems them second-class citizens. With the backdrop of civil liberties under attack, the film poses universal questions about what it takes to be an individual, what it means to be a minority and what role a family plays in our increasingly polarised world.

The film’s producer, Elhum Shakerifar said “We’re always keen to ensure that our films are as accessible as possible, and community screenings outside of the traditional cinema space are an important opportunity to bring a variety of audiences together and to facilitate a broader discussion. Although Of Love & Law centres on very specific cases and individuals fighting for minority rights in Japan, their work and values resonates far beyond, and we’re delighted to know that audiences across Northern Ireland will be able to see the film through the support and wonderful work of Film Hub NI.”

Please note: The Black Box event will feature a post-screening discussion with cinematographer Jason Brooks and John O’Doherty from the Rainbow Project.