EUROPEAN PREMIERE

In the midst of a frozen Minnesota winter, a Japanese drum master and a Korean adoptee from North Dakota join forces to assemble the world’s best female Taiko drummers in a bold effort to claim a cultural spotlight that has historically been reserved only for men and been off-limits to women for centuries.  As the early menace of Covid rumbles in the background, the group faces down hurdles to prepare for a historic performance in snowy St. Paul. Buoyed by dynamic drum performances and do-or-die spirit, Finding Her Beat is an energizing and uplifting story of music, cultural expression and sisterhood.

Their rhythm revolution includes rock stars from the world of Taiko and, through grueling rehearsals, Jennifer weaves together their disparate voices. Vulnerability, pain and joys are shared, and we quickly see the bonds of friendship form as these talented women navigate their way through differences in culture, age, language, and performing styles. 

As the clock ticks toward their first performance, it becomes clear that their story has become much larger than Taiko.

This film has a largely Asian and female/nonbinary crew to create an intimate production that reflected the drummers of Finding Her Beat.

FINDING HER BEAT WILL CONCLUDE WITH A LIVE TAIKO PERFORMANCE FROM 7.30-7.50PM FOLLOWED BY A TAIKO WORKSHOP WHICH WILL FINISH AT 8.30PM.  NUMBERS FOR THE WORKSHOP ARE STRICTLY LIMITED.  

EMAIL HELLO@SATISFIEDEYE.COM AFTER BOOKING YOUR FINDING HER BEAT TICKET TO CONFIRM ATTENDANCE OF THE WORKSHOP.   

Judges' Comments:  "Brilliant documentary about a wonderfully diverse group doing something that has never been done before and made by those who really know what they're doing, combining old world traditions with modern individuals being themselves.  Insightful, inspirational and touching, all while making it impossible to sit still."

SEIFF Award Nominations:  Best Documentary, Female Director