The JICC and the Japan Commerce Association of Washington, D.C. present the award-winning documentary The Birth of Saké, a post-screening Q&A with the director, and saké tasting!

In a world where most mass produced goods are heavily automated, a small group of artisans must brave unusual working conditions to preserve a 2000-year-old tradition that we have come to know as saké.

The Birth of Saké is a cinematic documentary revealing the story of passionate saké-makers and what it takes to make world-class saké at Yoshida Brewery, a 144-year-old family-owned small brewery in northern Japan.

Japanese with English subtitles | Not Rated | 2015 | 94 min | Documentary | Directed by Erik Shirai

Due to the sake tasting, guests must present a valid 21+ ID to enter the JICC facility during the event. Tasting must be consumed on the premise.

POST-SCREENING DISUCUSSION WITH DIRECTOR AND LIGHT SAKE TASTING

After the screening there will be a discussion and Q&A with The Birth of Saké Director Erik Shirai. With the generous support of World Sake Imports there will also be a light saké tasting after the discussion featuring saké produced at the same brewery featured in the film.

BIRTH OF SAKÉ DIRECTOR ERIK SHIRAI

Erik Shirai is an international filmmaker based in NYC and has worked on notable projects like Anthony Bordain's No Reservations. Mr. Shirai won Best Documentary Director Special Jury Mention at the Tribeca Film Festival for his film The Birth of Saké in 2015.

In 2008, Erik launched his own production company, Cebu Osani Creative, as a foundation for his creative ideals, to create films that are compelling, original and visually cinematic. Erik’s main goal is to produce one-of-a-kind content with integrity and respect.