I Want to Be Known As... A Neat and Clean Pervert! - Mari Ishikawa

Director Mari Ishikawa’s documentary intimately explores the complex legacy of her grandfather, who led a double life as a respected community member and a closeted gay man in post-war Japan. The film navigates the societal constraints and personal desires of a generation grappling with unspoken truths. Through archival footage and personal reflections, Ishikawa seeks to understand the man behind the facade and the impact of his hidden life on her family.

The documentary received critical acclaim for its sensitive and nuanced exploration of a hidden life within a specific socio-historical context. Reviewers praised Ishikawa's personal approach and her ability to evoke empathy for her grandfather, while also highlighting the broader themes of societal repression and the search for identity. The film was noted for its quiet power and thoughtful introspection.

• A deeply personal and affecting portrait of a life lived in secrecy.

• Masterfully balances historical context with intimate family history.

• Thought-provoking exploration of identity, desire, and societal judgment.

Google audience: Audiences largely lauded the film's emotional depth and courageous exploration of a taboo subject. Many found it a moving and insightful look into the complexities of hidden lives and the impact of societal pressures. The directorial perspective was frequently cited as a strength.

Selected for the Berlinale Forum at the 2019 Berlin International Film Festival, received the Audience Award at the 2019 Torino Film Festival.

Director Mari Ishikawa initially set out to make a film about her grandmother, but discovered her grandfather's hidden life through old diaries and letters, which then shifted the focus of the documentary.