Instruments of a Beating Heart

24m • Ema Ryan Yamazaki • Japan • 2024

First graders in a Tokyo public elementary school are presented with a challenge for the final semester: performing “Ode to Joy” at the ceremony for the new incoming 1st graders. Ayame, who often struggles to keep up with the group, is determined to play a major part, in the big drum.

** This short film will be screened as part of the Shorts 3 collection **