Ishiro Honda: Memoirs of a Film Director - Now Streaming

CHICAGO JAPAN FILM COLLECTIVE
Backstreet Cinema Series Vol. 2: “The Cinematic Roar”

Announces Online Screening of Ishirō Honda: Memoirs of a Film Director

December 12 - 21, 2025 available nationwide

The Chicago Japan Film Collective (CJFC), the Midwest’s first and only Japanese film festival, is pleased to announce an exclusive online screening of the documentary Ishirō Honda: Memoirs of a Film Director from December 12–21, 2025.

This online presentation provides audiences across the United States with rare access to a documentary capturing the life, vision, and creative legacy of Honda Ishirō, the groundbreaking director behind Godzilla, Mothra, and some of the most influential works in Japanese cinema history.

Directed by Jonathan Bellés, the film traces Honda’s wartime experiences, his decades-long collaboration with Akira Kurosawa, and his profound impact on global popular culture. The documentary offers an intimate look at an artist whose contributions helped shape not only Japanese filmmaking but also the international landscape of science fiction and fantasy cinema.

ONLINE SCREENING DETAILS

Available: December 12–21, 2025
Where to Watch:
https://watch.cjfc.us/ishiro-honda-memoirs-of-a-film-director

Viewing Window:
Once “Watch Now” is activated, viewers have 48 hours to complete the film.

Online Access Ticket: $10
Online ticket sales begin December 12.

FILM INFORMATION

Ishiro Honda: Memoirs of a Film Director

[Jonathan Bellés | Documentary | Spain | 2024 | 65 min. |(c)2024 Daifilms]

Ishiro Honda: Memoirs of a Film Director explores the life and career of Japanese director Ishiro Honda, focusing on his films, war experiences, and friendship with Akira Kurosawa.

ABOUT CJFC

The Chicago Japan Film Collective, established in 2021, is the Midwest's first and only Japanese film festival. CJFC showcases independent Japanese cinema by focusing on diverse creative voices, while deepening cultural understanding through film, conversation, and community events.