James D. Payne, 2016

Set both in modern Japan and the American South, Far Western explores how country and bluegrass music crossed geographic and language barriers in the post-WWII era, forming a unique cultural bridge between the two countries. For decades, a devoted group of Japanese musicians have promoted and played this music at home in Japan, as well as making regular pilgrimages to the birthplace of the music in the U.S. where they play in honky-tonks and festivals. Part music history and part character portrait, Far Western is told through the lives of these dedicated Japanese musicians, fans, and promoters.

93 min.
English | Japanese (subtitled)