Love on Trial
Mai, a rising J-Pop idol, is finally about to have her big break when she unexpectedly falls in love. But in a treacherous industry where young singers must maintain an image of flawless purity, love is forbidden. When her relationship is exposed, Mai’s agency takes drastic action, dragging the couple to court over the “no love” clause in her contract, throwing her life into chaos.
Japanese master Koji Fukada (Love Life – Venice Competition 2022, Harmonium – Cannes UCR 2016) delves into the dazzling yet ruthless world of J-Pop, delivering an intimate love story intertwined with sharp social commentary. Inspired by true events, Love on Trial is a poignant drama about freedom, defiance, and a woman’s fight to reclaim her life.
Festivals & awards
Festival de Cannes 2025: Cannes Premières
Busan International Film Festival: A Window on Asian Cinema
Pingyao International Film Festival
Tokyo International Film Festival: Gala Selection
GINMAKU Japanese Film Festival Zurich 2026
Credits
Pro Material
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Press voices
«Très intelligemment mis en scène, tout est réussi dans le film.» Le Parisien
«Love on Trial de Koji Fukada saisit par sa précision chirurgicale.» Le Bleu du Miroir
«An emotionally engaging and compellingly provocative drama with a sharply written script.» Next Best Picture
«Magnifique figure qui trouve sa voix en disant non.» Télérama
«Une fable aussi fine que feutrée sur la dépossession de soi.» Les Inrocks
«Enter: That crazy little thing called love.» IndieWire
«Un récit universel sur la liberté qui souligne l’opposition entre deux mondes, mis en scène dans des séquences hors du temps qui évoquent Fellini ou Chaplin.» francinfo
«A murmured critique of Japanese celebrity culture.» Variety
«Avec un sens très précis du cadre, Koji Fukada filme ces jeux de rapprochement et de rupture.» Le Monde