Africazine:
A new cinema has opened in Japan, showcasing the resilience and creativity of its founder.
Matthew Kelson has transformed an old kindergarten building in Uenohara into a cinema called CineYama. After leaving his job at Netflix in 2024, he decided to stay in Japan and pursue his passion for film, aiming to provide unique cinematic experiences for local audiences.
Matthew Kelson’s Journey to Uenohara
Kelson moved to Japan from Los Angeles in 2020, initially living in Tokyo for two years with his family. He had visited Japan multiple times before relocating. After leaving Netflix, he focused on how to leverage his film industry experience to benefit the local community.
His background includes studying film production in Detroit and working as a teacher and cinema technician. He previously operated an independent cinema in Detroit, which closed due to disputes with the landlord.
Challenges in Establishing CineYama
Kelson faced significant challenges in establishing CineYama, including finding a suitable abandoned kindergarten building and navigating the lengthy renovation process. The approval process for reconstruction was prolonged due to various issues with local authorities and his lack of proficiency in Japanese.
He emphasized the importance of patience, building trustworthy relationships, and demonstrating commitment to ensure the project’s longevity.
Upcoming Events and Community Engagement
- Continue showcasing films that are hard to find elsewhere.
- Engage local audiences with cultural films to promote understanding.
- Maintain family involvement in cinema operations.
CineYama represents a unique blend of passion and community spirit in Japan’s film landscape.
