My Sunshine

This year, we are honored to present My Sunshine as the opening film – a poignant and visually stunning movie that perfectly sets the tone for this edition of our festival. Director Hiroshi Okuyama, known for Jesus, once again delivers a subtle and layered story that takes the viewer to a snowy Japanese island, where the seasons dictate the rhythm of life.

My Sunshine follows Takuya, a boy who is not drawn to the popular sport of ice hockey at school. His interest lies with Sakura, a promising figure skater from Tokyo. When former champion and coach Arakawa recognizes Takuya’s hidden talent, he offers him the chance to team up with Sakura to form a pairs skating duo for an important competition. As winter progresses, the feelings between the two grow, and they develop a special bond, balancing between friendship and love.

With stunning cinematography and a restrained narrative style, My Sunshine explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and breaking through expectations. The film premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival and was praised for its poetic charm.

We invite you to experience this beautiful and immersive film with us. Let yourself be carried away by the serene imagery and subtle emotions that make My Sunshine the perfect opening film.

Introduction by Luk Van Haute.
Sponsored by Yamagata Europe.

After the film, in and around the Skoop Café: opening reception with sushi & sake in collaboration with GOHAN and Konishi.

All images: © “My Sunshine” Production Committee – COMME DES CINÉMAS