New Film 'Blue Boy Trial' Shows Old Case About Transgender Rights in Japan

A new film called 'Blue Boy Trial' is telling the story of an important court case from Japan in the 1960s. It is about transgender rights and the challenges people faced. The movie helps us learn about this history.
By Newsroom | Film, Japan |

The film "Blue Boy Trial," directed by Kasho Iizuka, is bringing renewed attention to a pivotal legal case in 1960s Japan concerning gender reassignment surgery and the rights of transgender individuals. The film explores the societal and legal challenges faced by transgender people during that era, and how the "Blue Boy Incident" impacted perceptions and legal frameworks surrounding gender identity and medical procedures in the country. Its release aims to educate the public about this often-overlooked part of Japan's history and its continuing relevance to LGBTQ+ rights.

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Background of the "Blue Boy Incident"

The "Blue Boy Incident" was a legal case centered on a doctor prosecuted for performing gender reassignment surgeries. At the time, Japan's laws, particularly those related to eugenics, posed significant hurdles. The prosecution argued that the surgeries resulted in sterilization and were not deemed essential, leading to the doctor's conviction for violating these statutes.

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  • The case emerged during a period of modernization in Japan, where internationalization efforts were met with tightening moral regulations and a focus on obscenity laws, which sometimes targeted sex workers.

  • Law enforcement also encountered difficulties in prosecuting transgender women who were perceived as female but legally identified as male.

  • The legal defense in the case highlighted the constitutional right to pursue happiness, provided it did not infringe on others' rights.

"Blue Boy Trial" Film's Narrative and Themes

"Blue Boy Trial" is a narrative film that recounts the historical events, focusing on the experiences of transgender individuals impacted by the legal proceedings. The film's director, Kasho Iizuka, who is a transgender man, collaborated with queer voices to ensure sensitivity and accuracy in its portrayal.

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  • The story includes the testimony of Sachi, a transgender patient of the doctor, who confronts her past and identity in court.

  • The film also features other transgender women, Ahko and Mei, whose testimonies played a role in the case.

  • The narrative aims to make this historical period accessible to a general audience while centering the lived experiences of transgender protagonists.

The "Blue Boy Incident" occurred within a complex social and legal environment in Japan. The government's actions reflected a tension between embracing international trends and maintaining conservative social norms.

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  • Eugenics Laws: These laws were used to prosecute the doctor, as the surgeries were seen to cause sterilization and were not considered medically essential.

  • Anti-Prostitution Laws: These were enacted around the same time, impacting sex workers, including transgender individuals.

  • Societal Views: The case brought the existence and struggles of transgender people to the forefront, challenging societal perceptions. As one source notes, "I felt that present-day Japanese people ought to know that these people existed.”

Filmmaking Approach and Intent

Director Kasho Iizuka's aim with "Blue Boy Trial" was to bring a hidden history to light and to promote a greater understanding of transgender lives and rights.

  • The film consulted queer voices during its production to ensure authenticity and respect for the subject matter.

  • It is presented as a step towards allowing queer individuals to tell their own stories and gain recognition for their work.

  • The film has been screened internationally, including at the Melbourne Queer Film Festival, and was part of the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme in the UK in early 2026.

Expert and Critical Reception

Reviews and discussions surrounding "Blue Boy Trial" highlight its significance in Japan's cinematic landscape and its contribution to LGBTQ+ discourse.

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  • The film is credited with reshaping Japan's understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and continuing to resonate today.

  • It questions the legality of gender-affirming surgery and explores the meaning of happiness.

  • While the director is not transgender, sensitivity and accuracy were prioritized through consultations.

Conclusion and Ongoing Impact

"Blue Boy Trial" serves as a historical document and a catalyst for dialogue. The film's focus on the "Blue Boy Incident" sheds light on the legal battles faced by transgender individuals in mid-20th century Japan and underscores the ongoing complexity and shortcomings of legal rights for transgender people in the country. The film's success in international screenings suggests a global interest in these narratives and a growing recognition of transgender history. The efforts behind the film aim to foster greater visibility and acceptance for queer stories and creators.

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  • The film has been shown in various locations, including Tokyo, London, and other UK cities as part of film programs.

  • It highlights the long-standing struggle for legal rights and societal acceptance for transgender individuals.

Sources Used:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the 'Blue Boy Incident'?
It was a court case in Japan in the 1960s where a doctor was in trouble for doing gender reassignment surgeries. The laws at the time made it hard for transgender people.
Q: What is the film 'Blue Boy Trial' about?
The film tells the true story of the 'Blue Boy Incident.' It shows the experiences of transgender people during that time and their fight for rights.
Q: Why is this film important?
It helps people understand the past struggles of transgender individuals in Japan. It also shows how important it is to have rights and be accepted.
Q: Who made the film?
The film was directed by Kasho Iizuka. He worked with people from the queer community to make sure the story was told correctly and with respect.