Skip to content

CRITERIAA Criterion Channel Companion

Home Search Collections Closet Lists

CRITERIA

A Criterion Channel Companion

© 2026 Criteria. Not affiliated with The Criterion Collection.

Otemba (1988) | Criteria

Backdrop for Otemba

Poster for Otemba

Otemba

United States • English • 1988 • 16m

This film is not currently available on the Criterion Channel

Director

Kayo Hatta

3.43/5·480 ratings·159 reviewson Letterboxd

Synopsis

Cultural traditions blend as a Japanese American family celebrates Christmas and a young girl tries to find her place within the family structure.

Included in
Holiday Short
Position 2
Included in
May 2023
Position 45
Included in
Asian American ’80s
Position 10

Credits

Crew

DirectorKayo Hatta

WriterKayo Hatta

CinematographerTodd Brunelle, Kurt Kaya

ComposerMasakazu Yoshizawa

EditorKayo Hatta

Cast

Kimi Nakabaas Otemba

Sachio Kanoas Father

Masami Saitoas Chizuko

Kami Nakabaas Kae

Kristi Nakayama

as Mari

Tadashi Yoshidaas Bar Singer

Masakias Piano Player

Jeannie Kokaguchias Bar Customer

Gary Masuuraas Bar Customer

Sara Yamahiroas Bar Customer

Ohtomo Takahiroas Bar Customer

Kiyu Takaishias Bar Customer

Koichi Ichikawaas Bartender