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Sawako Kabuki, the punk queen of Japanese animation, returns with I’m Late (2021), a poignant and often funny documentary about menstruation and what happens when it doesn’t arrive on time.
Highlighted by Kabuki’s freewheeling, humorous, and unconventional drawn animation style, which parades a restless clash of colors and metaphorical imagery, I’m Late features a diverse group of women — and even some men — sharing their varied experiences with the monthly challenge. Beneath its seemingly lighthearted surface, she delves into issues related to gender, healthcare, pregnancy, parenting, and adulthood.
Kabuki recalls the experience of making the film and what surprises she uncovered by the end of the production:
About eight years ago, while choosing a theme for my next film, I met Tomoki Misato, who later created Pui Pui Molcar, at a festival. I mentioned I was looking for a theme, and he suggested, ‘How about menstruation?’ From there, the conversation expanded.
I aimed to create a pop, realistic sex education film covering topics not typically taught in school. Witnessing childbirth, what surprised me most wasn’t the birth itself, but the pain and terror of the doctor stitching vaginal tears.
The film is based on a common experience — having a delayed period — but I hope it brings moments of surprise and discovery.
Kabuki holds a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Tama Art University and later earned her Master’s degree after working for a porn video company. Her distinctive films have been selected and awarded at festivals in over 20 countries, including Annecy, Ottawa, Rotterdam, Zagreb, and SXSW. Her short films include Summer’s Puke is Winter’s Delight, Master Blaster, and Anal Juke.
I’m Late was produced by New Deer (Japan) and Miyu Productions (France).
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