Celebrating Connections: Official Premiere of Summer Island - An Architectural Short Film

The official premiere of Summer Island (シンガポールの夏) on April 11, 2026 marked a special moment of cultural celebration and heartfelt storytelling. This event, held as part of the SJ60 commemorative events, brought together a diverse audience to experience a film that captures the simple yet profound journey of a Japanese father and his daughter exploring Singapore’s neighborhoods, architecture, and human connections. The energy in the room, the meaningful conversations sparked, and the shared appreciation for the film’s themes made the evening unforgettable.

The Origin of Summer Island

Summer Island began as a modest idea over a year ago. We wanted to tell a story about the quiet beauty of everyday moments shared between a father and child during a summer trip. Inspired by Takeshi Kitano’s Kikujiro (菊次郎の夏) and the gentle, evocative music of Joe Hisaishi (久石譲), the film reimagines that emotional tone within the unique context of Singapore.

The architectural short film explores how familiar places and simple encounters can create lasting memories. It highlights Singapore's neighborhoods, blending architectural details with human stories to build a narrative that feels both personal and universal. What started as a small project grew into something much larger thanks to the collaboration of passionate people, the discovery of meaningful locations, and the moments captured on film.

Premiere and Panel Discussion

The premiere took place at the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) as part of the Museum's Crossing Cultures: A Weekend of Curiosity programme. The film screening was followed by a panel discussion titled “Crossing Cultures in Art and Architecture”, where a diverse cast-turned-panel of architectural and art practitioners comes together to explore how culture, memory, and place intersect. The discussion delves into how art and architecture shape and transform cultural experience, reflecting on the ways creative practices translate identity across borders. From murals and pavilions to architectural filmmaking, the panel reveals how stories and spaces quietly bridge cultures, creating moments of familiarity, connection, and lasting impressions.

Summer Island is more than a film about a summer vacation. It is a bridge between cultures, celebrating the shared human experiences that connect Singapore and Japan. The film’s Japanese influences are woven seamlessly into the Singaporean context, creating a dialogue between two cultures through architectural language, visual storytelling and musical connections.

Gratitude to Supporters and Community

The success of the premiere owes much to the many people who supported the project. From the venue partners to the panelists and the tireless crew behind-the-scenes, each contribution was vital. The audience’s enthusiasm and engagement also played a key role in making the event memorable.

Our special thanks go to JCCI Singapore Foundation, DP Architects, WOHA Architects, Liu & Wo Architects, as well as everyone who have been part of our premiere to make the event a special one.

Looking Ahead to Tokyo

Following the successful premiere in Singapore, Summer Island will next be showcased in Tokyo, as part of the upcoming Tokyo Architecture Festival 2026. The journey of the film mirrors the journey of its characters — moving through places, meeting new people, and creating lasting memories. Looking forward to seeing you in Tokyo!

Screening Details:

【日比谷OKUROJI】東京建築祭 連携プログラム 短編映画「シンガポールの夏」上映会

■ 開催概要

日時：2026年5月23日（土）16:00〜17:00

会場：日比谷OKUROJI H05

参加費：無料

定員:  50名

Peatix Link: https://peatix.com/event/4954411/