JFTFP26: The Last Blossom (CTBC)

A man with a criminal past seeks a new beginning in life — but can he really become someone beyond himself?

An elderly man named AKUTSU Minoru (KOBAYASHI Kaoru present self, TOZUKA Junki past self), serving a life sentence, awaits a lonely death in his prison cell. The only real sign of life in the cell is a potted balsam flower — hosenka in Japanese. One night, Minoru begins sharing his life story with the flower — and, improbably, it starts talking back. Through their conversations, Minoru recalls his past and reflects on the meaning of his life.

Country: Japan
Language: Japanese (With English subtitles)

Knowing Me, Knowing You: The True Self in Japanese Cinema

The UK’s largest festival of Japanese cinema, the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme (JFTFP), is back again. This is the place where cinema comes alive! Knowing others—let alone ourselves—is not easy, as we behave differently depending on the relationship, environment, or even intention. In an age of advanced digital technology, where imagery can be readily manipulated, it is even harder to define who we, or others, truly are. This notion of identifying the self has been repeatedly explored in cinematic narratives in variousways. However, is it really possible to know our true selves? And if so, would such revelations lead to happiness and freedom, or might they instead bring disastrous and harsh consequences? With these questions in mind, the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026 showcases some of the most unmissable Japanese films nationwide across the UK. From powerful social crime dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies to gender-defining films, fantasy, and horror, the programme offerssomething for everyone

Venue: The Dukes - The Rake

Films begin promptly at the advertised time with no trailers or adverts. Please arrive in good time to grab a drink and be seated comfortably. 

Add an £11 meal voucher for The Borough as part of your cinema experience. 

The all-inclusive price of £18.00 covers a Dukes cinema ticket, and a Borough meal voucher & *free drink, creating the ultimate night out!

Simply add the Meal option when buying your cinema ticket and collect your Meal Voucher from the Dukes . 

Your £11 meal voucher can be used towards any meal at The Borough.  View the menus here

*Free drink includes a tea, coffee, draught soft drink or a glass of fizz at The Borough

ARRANGING YOUR MEAL

Your vouchers wont expire so you can enjoy your meal any time that suits you.  Just make sure you allow plenty of time for eating so you don't miss that film!

Pre-book a table here or telephone The Borough on 01524 64170

While you enjoy your great night out, The Borough will donate £1 for every meal redeemed to the Dukes!