Directed by: Hideki Takeuchi
2019
/ 107 minutes
/ Unclassified all ages
If you’re not from Tokyo, you can’t sit with us!
Imagine a world where people from neighbouring prefectures were persecuted for entering Tokyo without a special visa—such is the premise of this extravagant, satirical film. Rei Asami (GACKT) is a transfer student from America and secret Saitama revolutionist who is on a mission to abolish the oppressive laws perpetuated against residents of Saitama. Upon entering Hakuhodo Academy, the alluringly handsome Rei becomes a favourite with the girls, melting their hearts with his charming good looks and mysterious background, much to the dismay of Momomi Dannoura (Fumi Nikaido; Himizu & JFF 2018’s River’s Edge), the overly-pampered son of the governor of Tokyo and the student council president. It isn’t long before the two meet, and Momomi finds out the truth about Rei. In an unexpected turn of events, Momomi changes his tune, and starts supporting Rei in his quest for equality. Together, they battle defence officers armed with hairdryer-shaped tasers and cruel Chiba natives whose debaucherous torture methods leave little to the imagination.
Based on the 80s manga by Mineo Maya, this action-packed historical fantasy plays on the universal rivalry between cool cities and uncool provinces in a cheesy blend of Sci-Fi, steampunk and renaissance swagger.
Event Cinemas Brisbane Myer Centre, Brisbane
Event Cinemas George Street, Sydney
Event Cinemas George Street, Sydney
The Capitol, Melbourne
Fly Me to the Saitama (翔んで埼玉)
6:00 pm Sunday, 24 November 2019
Learn more about the manga behind Fly Me to the Saitama with our guest researcher Dr Emerald L King (La Trobe) in a discussion about 80s manga and forgotten classics. Join us for the screening of Fly Me to the Saitama at The Capitol Theatre Sunday 24 November, 6:00pm and the post-film discussion.
Director: Hideki Takeuchi
Producer: Hiroki Wakamatsu and Shinya Furugori
Original Story: Mineo Maya
Screenplay: Yuichi Tokunaga
Cast: Fumi Nikaido and GACKT
Genre: Comedy
Format: DCP colour