New Documentary Shares Japan’s Surprising Passion for the Packers

Football fans in Wisconsin may be surprised to learn some of the loudest cheers for the Green Bay Packers may not be coming from Lambeau Field, but rather from Japan. A new documentary, No Packers, No Life, shares the surprising story of Japan’s dedicated Packers cheering squad. Filmmakers Sean Hanish and Paul Jaconi-Biery join Todd Allbaugh, host of The Todd Allbaugh Show, with the first official announcement about its release in October. They are the same people who brought us Just A Bit Outside: The Story of the 1982 Milwaukee Brewers.   

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Listen to the complete conversation, starting at the half-way point, here:

This film follows the unlikely discovery of thousands of Japanese fans who gather in karaoke bars at 2 a.m. to watch Packers games live, despite the time difference. The project was first spotted at the Wisconsin Film Festival in Madison, where it drew a sold-out crowd and rave reviews.

“It’s such a joyful expression of what it means to be a Packers fan,” Hanish says. “We knew right away this was something audiences across the state would love.”

Jaconi-Biery explains how the unique way the cheering squad was first discovered. 

“Wisconsin businessman Ty Morse is walking through Shibuya in Tokyo and notices someone in a Packers jersey,” he says. “A simple ‘Go Pack Go’ turned into an invitation to a bar where thousands of Japanese fans regularly celebrate the team.”

The documentary not only captures the passion of these overseas superfans, but also highlights the spirit of Wisconsin hospitality. 

“It’s really a love letter to the people of Wisconsin,” Jaconi-Biery says. “Seeing the Packers through someone else’s eyes makes you appreciate just how special this team and the state really are.”

The world premiere of No Packers, No Life will be a VIP event hosted at the Marcus Majestic Cinema in Waukesha. Members of the Japanese cheering squad and other special guests are expected to attend. Tickets and more information about the premiere event are available on the website here. General tickets for showings around Wisconsin go on sale October 3.

The filmmakers encourage fans to wear their jerseys and treat any of the screenings like it’s a game day. 

“It’s 90 minutes of pure joy,” Hanish says. “Tailgate, grab a couple of beers, and get ready to see a Packers fandom like you’ve never seen it before.”