Award-winning filmmaker and Eastern Michigan University (EMU) alumnus Joshua Woodcock is scheduled to return to his alma mater for a special event on March 10, 2026. The public event will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. at the University Student Center Auditorium in Ypsilanti.
The evening will include a screening of Woodcock’s film “One Night in Tokyo,” followed by a live interview, an audience question-and-answer session, and a reception. The program aims to highlight bilingual filmmaking, cross-cultural storytelling, and creative career pathways.
The event is hosted by EMU’s Japanese Section and sponsored by the Faculty Development Center. Organizers intend for students and community members to connect with Woodcock and learn about how language study, cultural fluency, and interdisciplinary education can contribute to global creative careers.
“Studying Japanese at Eastern opened so many doors for me professionally and creatively,” said Woodcock. “I’m excited to return to campus and share how those experiences influenced my journey so far.”
Woodcock is known for his work featuring Japanese–English bilingual storytelling and cross-cultural experiences. After studying Japanese and political science at EMU, he attended law school before moving into filmmaking. His visit underscores the role of international education in shaping diverse professional paths.
“One Night in Tokyo” centers on Sam (played by Reza Emamiyeh), who travels to Tokyo to visit his expatriate girlfriend Becca (portrayed by Cailee Oliver) but is left alone after she ends their relationship. While waiting overnight for a flight home, Sam meets Ayaka (Tokiko Kitagawa), leading them both through the city despite a language barrier. The film addresses vulnerability, self-discovery, and human connection through its bilingual narrative.
EMU President James Smith will open the event with remarks welcoming attendees while highlighting alumni engagement and experiential learning opportunities. According to the official website, James Smith has served as president of Eastern Michigan University.
Admission is free but requires registration via the event registration page. Guest parking will be available next to the Student Center, and EMU students may receive LBC credit for attending.
Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan’s second-oldest public university. Today it enrolls more than 12,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral, and certificate programs in various fields including arts, sciences, business, education, engineering and technology, health and human services. More than 200 undergraduate majors and minors are offered alongside numerous graduate programs (source). The campus features historic architecture as well as modern facilities that support student success (source). EMU has received national recognition for its academic programs (source) while focusing on delivering an educational experience that fosters critical thinking skills (source). The university emphasizes preparing students for meaningful societal contributions (source).
More information about Eastern Michigan University can be found on its official website.
