The 39th edition of the Tokyo International Film Festival kicked off on Monday, despite inclement weather, with a vibrant ceremony at Hulic Hall. The Japanese government took this opportunity to reaffirm its ambition to export JPY20 trillion (approximately $133 billion) worth of Japanese media internationally by the year 2033.
This year, the festival attracted an impressive 1,892 film submissions from 112 countries. The event commenced with the premiere of “Sukiyaki,” which narrates the story behind the song that topped the U.S. Billboard charts in 1963. Director Zeze Takahisa was joined on stage by lead actors Okada Junichi, Matsuzaka Tori, and Seino Nana, each playing integral roles in the film centered around composer Nakamura Hachidai and lyricist Ei Rokusuke.
Zeze shared that the film is set in the post-war period of Japan, coinciding with its rapid economic growth, exploring the themes of war and the evolving concept of peace. “My hope is that through this film, the festival will also serve as a festival of peace,” he expressed.
Matsuzaka highlighted that filming began in April last year, and it took over a year to present the film to audiences. “It’s not just about enjoying the music; it’s an immersive experience where you can feel the live energy as if you were at the event,” he noted.
Seino recalled being moved by the performances of her co-stars during filming, stating, “Witnessing the synergy between everyone on stage and how they transcended their roles really touched me.”
In a video address during the ceremony, Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae emphasized the government’s focus on the film industry, citing it as a strategic priority within Japan’s growth strategy. There are plans for increased public-private investment to achieve the ambitious export targets set for 2033.
“Film has the unique ability to unite viewers across different nations and deepen appreciation for diverse cultures and values,” Takaichi remarked.
Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Akazawa Ryosei reported that international sales of Japanese content currently reach about JPY6.1 trillion ($40.7 billion). He has presented a budget request of roughly JPY250 billion ($1.67 billion) for fiscal 2027 to support investments in the growing content sector.
Akazawa pointed out the success of the fifth installment of the “Kingdom” series, making history with each of its five films surpassing JPY5 billion ($33 million) at the box office, accumulating over JPY30 billion ($200 million) collectively. He also brought attention to the festival’s Centerpiece film, “Godzilla Minus Zero,” which is set to premiere globally next month.
Festival director Hisamatsu Takeo, who is nearing 50 years in the industry, expressed gratitude for attendees braving the weather and officially opened the festival. “Films come in so many forms, each offering its unique appeal and enjoyment. I hope to share this wonderful diversity of cinema with all of you,” he shared.
Filmmaker Rolf de Heer, who presides over the competition jury, reminisced about the impact of Japanese cinema on his life, recalling a shot from an Ozu film over 50 years ago that remains etched in his memory. “We are privileged to work in the land of these cinematic masters,” de Heer said.
Actor and singer Nakajima Kento, serving as the TIFF Navigator, reflected on the emotional weight of walking the red carpet despite the rain, calling it a blessing that signifies a bright future for film.
On the red carpet, director Milcho Manchevski joined the cast of “Sister Brother Manhole Cover,” including Sara Klimoska, while director Qiu Jiongjiong brought the cast of “Fuxi: Four Tales of Feasting.” Indonesian director Garin Nugroho also attended with his team from “Red Before Dawn.”
Judy Ongg represented the gala selection “Sunshine Women’s Choir,” a film touted by TIFF as Taiwan’s leading box office success. Ongg has been recognized with several accolades for her performance, including a Best Actress award at the Taiwan Film Critics Society Awards.
Among the prominent figures on the red carpet were Academy CEO Bill Kramer, Academy president Lynette Howell Taylor, and chief membership, impact and industry officer Meredith Shea, who are present for TIFF’s Academy in Tokyo program.
“This marks the first instance of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences participating in an international film festival. Being involved with such a significant event as the Tokyo International Film Festival is truly meaningful to us,” Kramer stated.
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Tokyo Film Fest Opens With ‘Sukiyaki’ as Japan Restates Content Goal
