“Things become confusing when you force something ephemeral to become something more concrete.” – KON Satoshi
The Japan Foundation, Toronto is proud to present a special three-film retrospective of the visionary Japanese director KON Satoshi (1963–2010), whose visually stunning and psychologically complex films have established him as a significant figure in the anime world even after his untimely death. Blending fiction and reality, Kon’s films challenged the boundaries of storytelling, using the medium of animation to craft and explore worlds where dreams, memories and reality intertwine.
Though his filmography is brief—just four completed features and one TV series—KON Satoshi’s legacy lives on and continues to influence generations of animators and filmmakers across the globe. A master of visual storytelling and layered narratives, Kon’s influence can be seen in the work of directors such as Darren Aronofsky and Christopher Nolan. His films defy genre and convention, navigating between dream and reality, fantasy and social commentary, and remain as relevant and captivating today.
Join us to rediscover the enduring beauty, complexity, and innovation of KON Satoshi’s films!
May 28 – June 4, 2025
The Japan Foundation, Toronto Event Hall
Presented in Japanese with English subtitles • Free Admission • In-Person Screenings • Registration Required
Millennium Actress
千年女優
Wednesday May 28, 6:00PM (ET)
Directed by KON Satoshi • 2001 • 87 minutes • Presented in Japanese with English subtitles • Trailer
A tribute to the golden age Japanese cinema, Millennium Actress follows a pair of documentary filmmakers who set out to chronicle the life of a reclusive former movie star. As she shares her story, her memories unfold as if she were still acting, blending past and present, history and imagination.
This film is suitable for general audiences. Parental guidance is advised for younger viewers.
Paprika
パプリカ
Friday, May 30, 6:00PM (ET)
Directed by KON Satoshi • 2006 • 90 minutes • Presented in Japanese with English subtitles • Trailer
In a future where technology allows therapists to enter their patients’ dreams, a stolen device unleashes chaos when dreams and reality begin to merge. Paprika is a visually dazzling masterpiece that plunges audiences into a surreal exploration of the subconscious, imagination, and identity.
⚠️ Please note: This film is rated R (in the US) which contains mature themes and intense imagery that may not be suitable for children. Viewer discretion is advised.
Tokyo Godfathers
東京ゴッドファーザーズ
Wednesday, June 4, 6:00PM (ET)
Directed by KON Satoshi • 2003 • 92 minutes • Presented in Japanese with English subtitles • Trailer
On Christmas Eve in Tokyo, three homeless companions — a middle-aged alcoholic, a runaway teenager, and a former drag queen — discover an abandoned newborn while scavenging through the trash. As they search for the baby’s parents, their own troubled pasts slowly come to light. Filled with humor, heartache, and warmth, Tokyo Godfathers is a story that celebrates found family, forgiveness, and hope.
This film is suitable for general audiences. Parental guidance is advised for younger viewers.
