Japanese Director Neo Sora makes bold statement at Venice Film Festival

Sora's film 'HappyEnd' is a Japanese-American drama exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the human connection.

Japanese-American film director Neo Sora made a powerful statement of solidarity with Palestine at the 81st Venice International Film Festival today. Sora, who was attending the photocall for his new film 'HappyEnd' in the Orizzonti section, donned a traditional Palestinian keffiyeh and a Palestinian flag patch on his jacket.

The move has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many praising the director's courage and support for the Palestinian cause. This is not the first time Sora has voiced his support for Palestine. He has previously used his social media platforms to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Japanese director Neo Sora appears at 2024 Venice International Film Festival, wearing the keffiyeh and a Palestinian flag patch. Credit: @asahi_cinema pic.twitter.com/7AkgOoDFeK

— 🇵🇸🇯🇵Thoton Akimoto (@AkimotoThn) September 3, 2024

Sora's film 'HappyEnd' is a Japanese-American drama exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human connection. It features a diverse cast, including Japanese actors Hayato Kurihara, Yukito Hidaka, and Yuta Hayashi alongside American actors Shina Peng and Kilala Inori.

The director's bold fashion choice at the prestigious film festival is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for Palestinian self-determination and serves as a call for greater awareness and understanding of the issue.

The Venice Film Festival continues until September 12, 2024, and 'HappyEnd' is scheduled for a Japanese release on October 4, 2024.