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No Dogs or Italians Allowed

This is a warm and moving work that blends stop-motion animation with documentary elements. Centered on the director’s family history, it employs the meta-narrative device of the “giant hand” to portray the hardships and discrimination faced by Italian immigrants in France from the late 19th to the early 20th century. By weaving together grand historical currents and the struggles of ordinary people, the film uses deft and charming clay stop-motion animation to soften the weight of history, revealing a sense of warmth, resilience, and family bonds that transcend time—allowing audiences to experience the universal struggles and emotional power of the immigrant journey through humor.

Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the Window

Date：3/18

It focuses on Principal Kobayashi’s educational philosophy—respecting individuality and encouraging free exploration—the unique teaching methods of Tomoe Gakuen (such as classroom railcars, flexible curricula, and learning in harmony with nature), and the children’s growth in a warm, nurturing environment. In particular, it highlights Totto-chan’s friendship with and acceptance of her classmate Yasuaki, who has physical disabilities. The work also touches on the impact of war on innocent childhood, embodying core values of anti-war sentiment and cherishing every child, and ultimately offering readers warmth, emotional resonance, and profound reflection on education.

Aimitagai

Date：3/25

This is a warm, healing, and deeply moving film. Through the protagonist’s interactions with those around them after the loss of a close friend, it explores connection and mutual support amid life’s impermanence. With emotions built up through delicate, everyday moments, the film ultimately shows that even in loss, longing can be “held” and transformed into the courage and strength to keep moving forward. Many viewers have been moved to tears, and it is especially resonant for those who have experienced loss and understand the value of cherishing human relationships.

Superman

Date：4/1

With “hope and the radiance of humanity” as its central theme, the film emphasizes Superman as a symbol of hope and the power of choosing kindness. Departing from darker portrayals of the past, it weaves in humor and political allegory, allowing viewers confirm a sense of childhood wonder and reflect on the meaning of freedom. Audiences feel the film succeeds in making Superman more deeply human—not merely a figure of strength, but someone who chooses to shine.

F1 The movie

Date：4/8

With its extreme immersive audiovisual experience, the film vividly captures the adrenaline and intensity of high-speed racing, successfully placing audiences in the driver’s seat. The pulse-pounding track sequences, Brad Pitt’s portrayal of a legendary veteran, and its exploration of self-discovery, responsibility, and dreams lead many viewers to consider it an unmissable, high-energy crowd-pleaser and one of this year’s must-see films.

LEE

Date：4/15

The film traces how the legendary photographer Lee Miller transformed from a fashion model into a fearless war correspondent. With a distinctly female perspective and unwavering resilience, she used her camera to capture the brutal truths of World War II and give voice to silenced victims. It powerfully portrays her courage in confronting trauma and her profound sense of mission to bear witness to history. Through striking contrasts in color and Kate Winslet’s superb performance, the film reveals the female gaze and vitality of women amid war.

Paddington in Peru

Date：5/6

The film continues the series’ warm, humorous, and family-friendly tone, centering on the theme of “family and belonging.” It follows Paddington Bear on a journey to discover his roots, exploring the emotions of those living far from home and the meaning of where one truly belongs. While the story is sincere and touching, some critics feel it lacks the “unique Paddington magic and unexpected creativity” of the first two films, and that it takes time to adjust to the new cast—especially the new Mrs. Brown. Overall, it remains an enjoyable and well-made family comedy adventure.

Dog on Trial

Date：5/13

Blending courtroom comedy with profound lessons about life, the film is widely seen by audiences as using the absurd premise of a “dog on trial” to explore animal rights, law, and human nature, striking a balance between entertainment and depth. Critical highlights include the impressive performance of the dog Kodi, its sensitive portrayal of women’s struggles, and a warm, thought-provoking ending that encourages reflection on the relationship between humans and animals.

Close to Vermeer

Date：5/20

This is a fascinating and insightful work that delves deeply into the artistic allure of Vermeer and deciphers the details of his paintings. Beyond showcasing the behind-the-scenes story of the largest Vermeer exhibition in history, it presents discoveries through the eyes of restorers, using technologies such as X-ray imaging to reveal surprising findings—such as the original green background of Girl with a Pearl Earring. The film allows audiences to witness the master’s use of light and shadow and the mysteries of his everyday world. Highly engaging for both art beginners and enthusiasts alike, it successfully brings this enigmatic painter closer to modern audiences and helps explain why he is regarded as a true “master.”

The Salt Path

Date：5/27

The film authentically portrays a middle-aged couple at the lowest point of their lives who, after bankruptcy and the husband’s diagnosis with a rare illness, decide to shoulder their packs and walk the South West Coast Path. Through this journey, they rediscover love, freedom, and the meaning of life. Although the pacing is relatively slow, the emotional depth is profound. Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs deliver powerful performances that vividly capture the characters’ vulnerability, resilience, and companionship, making it a moving story about both “loss” and “finding again.”

Bride Hard

Date：6/3

Using exaggerated and hilarious antics, the film depicts chaotic weddings and tests of friendship, with the protagonist revealing genuine emotion and resilience amid absurdity and crises. Fast-paced and full of laughs, it also explores friendship, responsibility, and personal growth through the dynamics between the bridesmaids. Though presented as a comedy, its emotions are authentic, allowing audiences to laugh while feeling the deeper bonds and small, heartfelt moments of life—making it both entertaining and warmly moving.

Fureru

Date：6/10

Through delicate and tender storytelling, the film portrays the interactions and emotional connections between a blind pianist and the world around him. Centered on sensory experience, it highlights the power of hearing and the heart, allowing audiences to feel the subtle emotional touches between people. The story is warm and profound, offering reflections on life, solitude, and companionship, and gently reminds us to cherish every moment of genuine connection and understanding.

Library Service Poding Movie Festival

Poding Movie Festival

Poding Movie Festival Schedule on 2st Semester of 2025