2011
The beginning
A small film festival begins in response to the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Since 2011
A Continuing Spacefor Dialogue.
A concise first-stage timeline with selected event photography. Additional records and images will be added after verification and permissions.
BJFF began in 2011, in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake, as a small film festival created to convey the situation in Japan to Boston and to create opportunities for support and dialogue.
Over time, the festival expanded from the immediate realities of disaster and recovery to a wider range of social, historical, cultural, and contemporary questions.
2012–2014
Disaster and its aftermath
Programs address disaster, radiation, displacement, and the longer-term consequences of nuclear events.
2015–2018
History and society
The festival broadens toward migration, history, community, and questions facing contemporary society.
2019–2020
Everyday life and identity
Programs explore caregiving, food education, regional culture, and identity.
2021–2022
Division and diversity
Films and conversations address division, race, prejudice, diversity, and belonging.
2023–2024
History in conversation
Programs examine nuclear history, war, modernization, and international exchange with filmmakers and specialists.
2025
Archive under review
The verified 2025 entry will be added with the expanded year-by-year archive.
Photographs: BJFF archive. Thank you to the participants and volunteers who have supported the festival over the years.