Beyond the Fire: The Life of Japan’s First Pride Parade Pioneer

This marvellous film dives deep into Japan’s queer history, highlighting the incredible life of the man who pioneered the country’s first Pride march.

Screening dates and booking

Check which tickets are still available across the festival – and find out about extra ticket releases and standby queues.

Credits

  • Director-screenwriter

    Hiroaki Matsuoka

  • With

    Teishiro Minami

  • Japan-Sweden 2025. 105min

  • Courtesy of

    KamiHUG production

  • Languages

    Japanese, English

    With English subtitles

Introduction

Born in 1931, Teishiro Minami launched Japan’s first commercial gay magazine, coordinated a queer helpline and organised the nation’s first Pride parade in 1994. Minami and friends reflect on the complicated relationships and inter-community clashes that paved the way for today’s movement. Comprising a rich trove of archive footage and vibrant animation, Hiroaki Matsuoka’s documentary honours Minami’s legacy.

Wema Mumma

Content advice

Contains themes of suicide.

Contains homophobic attitudes and language.

Contains flashing images.

How to book

BFI Flare tickets start from £10, with concessions available for many screenings and discounts for BFI Members. Booking information and ticket prices.

If you’re aged 16 to 25, sign up for free to BFI 25 and Under for a chance to get £6 tickets to all screenings and events (subject to availability).

Missed out?

More tickets may become available for these screenings before and during the festival. Find out about extra ticket releases and standby queues.

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