Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za 2021
In the quiet city of Minamisoma, Fukushima, the historic Asahiza movie theater faces closure after nearly a century of showcasing classic 35mm films.
Director: Yuki Tanada
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za (2021)* about?
The film follows Rika Motegi, a young woman from Tokyo who travels to Minamisoma to prevent the historic Asahiza movie theater from closing. As she confronts the theater's manager, Yasuzo Morita, over his plan to destroy the theater's archives, their clash reveals deeper truths about cinema's role in preserving memories and community.
Who directed *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za*?
Yuki Tanada, known for her sensitive and character-driven films, directed *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za*. She crafts a slow-burn drama that balances emotional depth with quiet tension.
Who stars in *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za*?
The film features Mitsuki Takahata as Rika Motegi, Kyotaro Yanagiya as Yasuzo Morita, alongside Kayoko Okubo, Masahiro Komoto, and Yū Kamio in key supporting roles.
Is *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za (2021)* worth watching?
While the film isn't widely rated on IMDb, its genre—character-driven drama—along with its themes of nostalgia and preservation, makes it appealing for those who enjoy introspective, atmospheric stories. Its low-key yet emotional approach is a refreshing change from mainstream cinema.
How long is *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za*?
The runtime of *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za* is 114 minutes.
About Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za (2021) — The Fight to Save a Fading Film Legacy
In the quiet city of Minamisoma, Fukushima, the historic Asahiza movie theater faces closure after nearly a century of showcasing classic 35mm films. When its manager, Yasuzo Morita, prepares to burn the theater's archives, a determined young woman from Tokyo arrives to halt the process. Rika Motegi's arrival sparks an unexpected fight to save the theater, blending nostalgia with modern urgency in this poignant drama. Directed by Yuki Tanada, *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za (2021)* explores themes of preservation, memory, and the emotional weight of cinema through its intimate, character-driven narrative.
The film's atmosphere is melancholic yet hopeful, capturing the tension between past and present as Rika's passion collides with Morita's resignation. With a cast led by Mitsuki Takahata and Kyotaro Yanagiya, the movie weaves together quiet moments and emotional confrontations, making it a reflective yet engaging exploration of why cinema—and the places that hold it—matter. Perfect for fans of slow-burn dramas, *Cinematic Liars of Asahi-za* is a love letter to the enduring power of film.