Kano (film)

Kano is a 2014 Taiwanese historical sports film directed by Umin Boya. The film tells the true story of the multiracial Kano baseball team from Japanese-era Taiwan that defied expectations and reached the final game of the 1931 Japanese High School Baseball Championship at Koshien Stadium.

The film portrays the struggles and triumphs of the team, composed of Japanese, Han Chinese, and Taiwanese aborigines players, under the guidance of their coach, Kondo Hyotaro. It highlights the social and political context of the time, showcasing the tensions and prejudices that existed within the community. The narrative focuses on themes of teamwork, perseverance, cultural identity, and national pride.

Kano was a critical and commercial success in Taiwan, becoming the highest-grossing Taiwanese film of 2014. It received numerous accolades, including nominations and awards at the Golden Horse Awards. The film is notable for its historical accuracy, its portrayal of inter-ethnic relations, and its uplifting message of overcoming adversity. It is considered a significant contribution to Taiwanese cinema and a reminder of a pivotal moment in the island's history.