Watch Of Love & Law

Of Love & Law is a powerful, thought-provoking documentary released in 2017 that explores the lives of two openly gay lawyers and their struggles as they navigate the complexities of Japan’s legal system. The film is directed by Hikaru Toda and features Kazuyuki Minami and Masafumi Yoshida, two queer lawyers who run their own law firm, the first in Japan to specifically cater to the LGBTQ community.

The film opens with a scene of a traditional Japanese wedding, before delving into the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community in a conservative, patriarchal society such as Japan. It highlights the inequality and discrimination often faced by LGBTQ people, and how it affects their ability to live their lives freely and without fear. The two protagonists are determined to fight for equal rights and representation in the country’s legal system, and the film follows them on this journey.

Throughout the documentary, the audience is taken through some of the cases that the lawyers have worked on in order to protect their clients’ human rights - from a transgender man who needed to change his legal gender status, to a lesbian couple fighting for equal rights in parental guardianship. The struggles of their clients shed light on the many obstacles that the LGBTQ community face in Japan, including societal stigma, a lack of legal recognition, and an overall lack of understanding and empathy from the general public.

Of Love & Law highlights the uphill battle that Kazuyuki and Masafumi face in a country where LGBTQ rights are not always guaranteed. The documentary shows how the two lawyers work tirelessly to affect change in their society, both in the courts and through various outreach programs. Their unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of of their clients leaves the audience feeling deeply moved and inspired.

The documentary is also an intimate look into the lives of the two lawyers themselves. Through interviews with family members and loved ones, the audience is given glimpses into their personal lives and how they navigate their own identities as queer individuals in Japan. It shows the impact that their work has on their personal lives, and the struggles they face in trying to balance it all.

Of Love & Law doesn’t just tackle LGBTQ issues, it also touches on topics such as mental health and suicide in Japan. When discussing a case involving a transgender client who was denied legal gender recognition, the documentary explores the effects of the country’s strict gender norms on mental health and how it often leads to suicide.

The music in the documentary is calming and serene, with a fusion of traditional Japanese sounds and contemporary beats, creating an overall peaceful and introspective atmosphere. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the nuances of Japanese life that are often ignored by tourists or people who haven’t lived in Japan, while also interweaving animation to further emphasize the message of the film.

Overall, Of Love & Law is a compelling, socially relevant documentary that highlights the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ community in Japan. It is a story of hope, love and resilience that is both educational and inspiring, reminding both Japanese and international audiences about the importance of equality and inclusivity in a society that is still grappling with the complexities of what it means to live a full, free life.