Copyright by Yana Yatsuk.
The Japan Foundation Los Angeles (JFLA) presents special screening of “THE WIDE WEST” with sumo champions panel at the JFLA, 5700 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 100, Los Angeles, CA 90036, on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:20 p.m.
Admission is free. Reservation is required.
The Japan Foundation Los Angeles presents the world premiere of the film "THE WIDE WEST," inspired by the true, historic meeting between Japan's first sumo delegation and President Theodore Roosevelt in Washington D.C. in 1907.
In the screening at the JFLA, there will be the film's three BIG stars in attendance: three-time Mr. Universe Alexander Nevsky and Sumo Champions Hiroki Sumi and Ichi (former Ichinojo).
Following the film, there will be a discussion and Q&A with the producers and the stars.
Panelists: Alexander Nevsky (Producer, Star), Andrew Freund (Producer)
Hiroki Sumi (Star) and Ichi (Star)
The discussion will be followed by a photo session with the three-time Mr. Universe and the two Sumo Champions.
Also expected are director Joe Cornet, as well as co-stars Tatiana Neva, Nick Baillie, and Kaz Kobayashi.
SCHEDULE
6:30 pm: Reception
7:00 pm: Movie Screening
8:30 pm: Q&A Session with Producers and Stars
9:00 pm: Photo Opportunities with the stars (Hiroki, Ichi, Alexander)
9:30 pm: Close
MOVIE DESCRIPTION
Action / Western (2025, 85 min.)
THE WIDE WEST stars international action star and three-time Mr. Universe Alexander Nevsky and Sumo Champions Hiroki Sumi and Ichi. It is the first time ever that real sumo wrestlers with Pro Sumo titles are starring in a feature film.
Plot: In 1907, for the first time ever, a Japanese sumo delegation visits the United States. On the way to visit the White House, to perform for President Roosevelt, they get delayed in a small Western town, where trouble awaits . . .
The Wide West is inspired by true events, starring elite athletes, and sharing the Japanese cultural treasure of sumo as a main feature of a Hollywood film, as an historic first.
THE WIDE WEST trailer at YouTube
