JFTFP26: A Bad Summer

Directed by veteran filmmaker JOJO Hideo (Twilight Cinema Blues, JFTFP24), A Bad Summer is an explosively emotive drama that weaves together black comedy and psychological tension with devastating precision.


SASAKI Mamoru (KITAMURA Takumi) is a shy, introverted welfare department caseworker, impassively carrying out duties such as sanctioning fraudulent claimants despite pressure from the office. One day, his colleague MIYATA Yuko (ITO Marika) discovers that fellow caseworker TAKANO Yoji (MAIGUMA Katsuya) is coercing a single mother, HAYASHINO Aimi (KAWAI Yuumi), for sex in exchange for welfare benefits.

Having reluctantly agreed with Yuko to help uncover the truth, Mamoru starts visiting Aimi who is on the verge of child neglect. While she denies any involvement with Yoji, Aimi is in fact secretly entangled with KANEMOTO Ryu (KUBOTA Masataka), a criminal underworld boss involved in shady dealings. Without truly knowing her, Mamoru gradually forms a personal relationship with Aimi, only to find himself trapped in a nightmarish summer — one that builds to a shocking and unforgettable climax.

Screening as part of the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026: Knowing Me, Knowing You - The True Self in Japanese Cinema.

You may also like the following events from Queen's Film Theatre, Belfast:

• This Sunday, 1st February, 02:45 pm, Frederick Wiseman: Ballet in Belfast
• This month, 11th February, 08:45 pm, NISF X LUMI: Alphaville in Belfast
• This month, 12th February, 06:00 pm, NISF X LUMI: Silkwood in Belfast

Also check out other Entertainment events in Belfast, Performances in Belfast, Arts events in Belfast.