Bus Stop Films
Chasing the Sun | World Expo, Osaka 2025

Chasing the Sun
Australia / 2025 / 13 min

When DJ, a young man with Down syndrome, sets off along through regional Western Australia in search of a local udon shop, he finds more than a meal – he finds an unexpected connection.

Chasing the Sun is a tender, gently humorous cross-cultural story about food, friendship and finding connection where you least expect it.

About the project:
Chasing the Sun was commissioned as an inclusive, cross-cultural short designed to spotlight the strength of Australia–Japan ties through story. The project was selected by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) as part of its cultural showcasing at a major global platform.

The film received its world premiere at the Australia Pavilion at World Expo Osaka 2025, where it played to international audiences as a celebration of contemporary Australian storytelling — warm, human, and quietly funny — made with inclusion at its core.

Created in partnership with Bus Stop Films, and supported through collaboration with the Japan Down Syndrome Society and Special Beauty Japan, the project reflects a shared commitment to authentic representation on screen and meaningful access behind the camera. Funding support was provided by the Australia-Japan Foundation.

Currently shown internationally at film festivals (New Filmmakers Los Angeles, Heart of Gold International Film Festival, Darwin International Film Festival). To be shown on SBS in November, 2026.