TIGER is an independent Japanese drama inspired by real-life experiences within Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ community. The film offers a raw, intimate look at Japan’s aging queer population through the story of Taiga, a 35-year-old gay masseuse. When Taiga’s father falls il, he returns home only to face a family crisis: his sister pressures him to give up his inheritance rights, using his concealed sexuality against him in a society where coming out can cost everything: family ties, housing stability, and financial security.

The film also explores Japan’s emerging “friendship marriage” trend, where gay men and lesbian women enter legal unions for practical benefits rather than romantic connection. TIGER exposes the difficult choices LGBTQ+ individuals face in a culture that often prioritizes tradition over personal freedom.

Anshul Chauhan was born in India. After attending military academy and graduating from MS University Vadodara, he began his career as an animator in 2006 with Paprikaas Studios in Bangalore. In 2011, he relocated to Tokyo where he worked with Polygon Pictures on projects including the Emmy Award-winning TRON UPRISING (Disney XD) and the TRANSFORMERS TV series. At the same time, he pursued his passion for directing, establishing his independent production company, Kowatanda Films, in 2016. His directorial debut, BAD POETRY TOKYO, won the Grand Prix at the Brussels International Film Festival and screened at numerous festivals. TIGER is his fourth feature film.

Filmography (selection): 2018 BAD POETRY TOKYO, 2019 KONTORA, 2022 DECEMBER, 2025 TIGER