Film director Tomoya Ishida, left, in his wheelchair, and choreographer Osamu Jareo in the documentary film “Henshin!” (Transform) (Provided by Pia Corp.)
In his debut as a film director, Tomoya Ishida stole the show at an independent film festival, showing that disabled people can lead productive lives in the arts.
Ishida, 23, who works from a wheelchair himself due to muscular dystrophy, won the Grand Prize at the recent 42
nd Pia Film Festival in Tokyo with his documentary film Henshin! (Transform).
The film features disabled people who have overcome difficulties to shine artistically.
“I was interested in how disabled people change their bodies and minds by participating in artistic activities,” Ishida said.