A Romantic Film Experience Under the Stars

Launched in 1981 and cherished for over 26 years as a summer tradition in Hara Village, Nagano, the "Starlight Cinema Festival" once closed its curtains in 2007, much to the public's regret. However, it was revived by a group of volunteer enthusiasts, primarily local residents. In 2013, its fourth year since revival, the festival attracted over 5,000 attendees, solidifying its place as a beloved event that continues to capture the hearts of its fans through its dedicated efforts.

The venue is the outdoor stage within the Yatsugatake Natural Culture Garden. A 11-meter wide, 5-meter high screen is set up on the plateau of Hara Village, located at an altitude of 1300 meters. Utilizing both a 35mm film projector and a state-of-the-art digital projector, the festival offers an authentic cinematic experience with powerful 5.1 channel surround sound, despite being an outdoor event.

The film selection includes the 2D Japanese dubbed version of Disney's "Frozen," Ben Stiller's directorial and starring feature "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," and Robert Zemeckis's classic "Back to the Future." The lineup spans a wide range of genres and eras, from this year's most talked-about films to beloved masterpieces from the 1980s, catering to a diverse audience.



Among the selections, director Wes Anderson'sMoonrise Kingdomand Isao Takahata's "The Tale of the Princess Kaguya" offer particularly delightful choices, perfectly suited for the unique atmosphere of the "Starlight Cinema Festival."

Under the falling stars, capture unforgettable summer memories at this romantic outdoor cinema.