Human rights for sexual assault and child abuse victims are global concern that is not only in addressed in Japan but throughout the world. From his debut, Director Masato Ozawa has continued to create films which shine a light on these serious social issues. In his previous work "Remiges," Ozawa expressed the struggles of a girl and a boy who have been victims of violence with a fresh perception and won "Best Picture Prize" at the 14th Jeonju International Film Festival. With his works Ozawa have quickly gathered acclaim as one of Japan's up-and-coming director. For "Lost Serenade" Ozawa challenged to depict original sin and redemption through a direct approach towards sexual violence also known as the 'soul murder.' Starring rising stars, Nori Sato and Uwa Ishibashi who poured their heart and soul into their characters, actors who shared Ozawa's passion in this theme, Yota Kawase, Asuka Kurosawa and Jun Miho also supported the film.

Lost Serenade

This short film is based on a true story by interviewing to several staff who actually work at children’s welfare centers. It depicts the substance of a Japan’s social services that has never been featured into movies. Kasumi is the second-year consultant at the children's welfare center. She has been struggling to fulfill her duties while feeling doubts; pulling a baby away from his mother and temporarily protecting him, or being yelled at by the parents unreasonably. One day, Kasumi is appointed to a case of Hina Yasuda, a nine-year-old girl whose mother is hospitalized for acute alcohol poisoning. While Hina is under protection, Kasumi discusses with her parents in order to get Hina back home. Hina’s parents seem corporative at first, however, it doesn’t long last; Mr. Yasuda leaves home, and Ms. Yasuda’s drinking habit seems not getting any better. Kasumi struggles gaining trust of Ms. Yasuda. However, Ms. Yasuda is moved by Kasumi’s devoted work and gradually opens up to her.

Softening... Breath

Kasumi, a child welfare officer who has entered the child guidance center as a new graduate and has been in her second year, struggles to fulfill her duties, even though she sometimes has doubts about how to proceed with her work. One day, she takes care of Hina, a 9-year-old girl who was temporarily taken into custody due to suspicion of neglect. It seemed that Hina would be able to go home soon after seeing her parents deeply reflecting on her...