法人別リリース

Tokyo International Film Festival Closes on High Note at New Main Venues in Hibiya-Yurakucho-...

UNIJAPAN — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 15, 2021 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival
Tokyo International Film Festival Closes on High Note at New Main Venues in Hibiya-Yurakucho-Ginza Area, Tokyo’s Center of Cinema

The 34th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) concluded with the announcement of winners at the Closing Ceremony on November 8. The Tokyo Grand Prix was awarded to "Vera Dreams of the Sea," directed by Kaltrina Krasniqi, the first TIFF selection from Kosovo; while “World, Northern Hemisphere” by Hossein Tehrani won the Asian Future Best Film Award. Other winning films included “La Civil,” “Poet,” “The Other Tom,” “The Four Walls,” “Crane Lantern” and “Just Remembering,” as well as Amazon Prime Video Take One Awardees “Sunday & Calm Sea” and “Under the Bridge.”

Images: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/202111103177?p=images

Details of winners: https://2021.tiff-jp.net/award_winners_en/

The 34th TIFF showcased 126 films selected from 1,533 submissions from 113 countries and regions between October 30 and November 8, 2021.

-Conversation Series at Asia Lounge, Co-presented by The Japan Foundation Asia Center (JF) and TIFF
With an advisory panel headed by Palme d’Or winner Kore-eda Hirokazu, the series brought together acclaimed filmmakers and actors from Asia and beyond to engage in friendly dialogue for 8 days. Despite the ongoing pandemic, the Asia Lounge featured both in-person and online guests, with audiences able to participate in person and to livestream Q&As for each of the talks, as well as it could also set up the physical lounge where filmmakers would enjoy free-form conversation and exchange. International guests included TIFF Jury President Isabelle Huppert, Chang Chen, Kamila Andini, Bahman Ghobadi, Brillante Ma Mendoza, Apichatpong Weerasethakul and Bong Joon Ho.

-Other Joint Initiatives by JF and TIFF
The JF and TIFF jointly showcased the rich and diverse cultures of Asian cinema in the Competition, Asian Future, Gala Selection, World Focus and newly launched TIFF Series sections, including:
“Arisaka”
“The Dawning of the Day”
“Payback”
“American Girl”
“Asu”
“The Brittle Thread”
“The Brokers”
“The Coffin Painter”
“The Last Birds of Passage”
“When Pomegranates Howl”
“World, Northern Hemisphere”
“Churuli”
“GENSAN PUNCH”
“Memoria”
“Terrorizers”
“Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash”
“The Excursion” and “The Day the Wind Blew” from HBO Asia’s horror series "Folklore 2"
“Fragrance of the First Flower”

Official Website:
The Japan Foundation Asia Center: https://jfac.jp/en/
Tokyo International Film Festival: https://2021.tiff-jp.net/en/

Tokyo International Film Festival Closes after Its First Hybrid Edition of Physical Screenings ...

UNIJAPAN — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 13, 2020 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival Closes after
Its First Hybrid Edition of Physical Screenings
and Online Events, Including New “Asia Lounge”
During the 33rd Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) Closing Ceremony on November 9, “Hold Me Back” directed by Akiko Ohku received the Audience Award, the only award given this year due to COVID-19. Ohku said, “I’m really honored to receive this award for a second time. In these past 3 years, the world has changed, and while other festivals had to move online, TIFF was able to have audiences inside theaters, watching the films together. I’m so grateful to all the audience members and I hope I’ll soon be able to shake all your hands.”
(Images: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/202011116971?p=images)

At the 33rd TIFF, 138 films selected from 1,356 submissions from 107 countries and regions were screened from October 31 to November 9, 2020.

- The New “Asia Lounge” Conversation Series Co-presented by The Japan Foundation Asia Center and TIFF
The Japan Foundation Asia Center (JF) and TIFF are now in their seventh year of collaboration. This year, JF and TIFF co-hosted the conversation series “Asia Lounge,” a new initiative proposed by world-renowned director Hirokazu Kore-eda, who worked with the members of a curatorial committee to organize the event. It featured daily online conversations between leading Asian film directors and their Japanese peers, who discussed a myriad of topics. Guests included Kim Bora (South Korea), Huang Xi (Taiwan), Apichatpong Weerasethakul (Thailand), Mouly Surya (Indonesia), Tsai Ming-Liang (Malaysia/Taiwan) and Rithy Panh (Cambodia). Although originally conceived as a physical lounge where filmmakers from around the world would enjoy free-form conversations and exchanges, it had to move online in this inaugural year due to COVID-19, but audiences worldwide were able to participate virtually in Q&A sessions.

- Other Joint Initiatives by JF and TIFF
The JF and TIFF jointly showcased the rich and diverse culture of Asian cinema in the Tokyo Premiere 2020 and World Focus sections. Also, as a part of the JF’s Southeast Asian film restoration efforts, the 4K digitally restored version of Yasmin Ahmad’s masterpiece “Mukhsin” (Malaysia, 2006) was presented for the first time in the world.

Official Website:
The Japan Foundation Asia Center: https://jfac.jp/en/
Tokyo International Film Festival: https://2020.tiff-jp.net/en/

Source: Tokyo International Film Festival

Tokyo International Film Festival Reveals Diverse Lineup of Award Winners, Including Iranian ...

UNIJAPAN — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 14:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 13, 2019 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival Reveals Diverse
Lineup of Award Winners, Including Iranian Director
Reza Jamali’s “Old Men Never Die”
During the 32nd Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) Award Ceremony on November 5, Director Reza Jamali won the Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center for his film “Old Men Never Die.” The award is bestowed on a promising director in the TIFF Asian Future section, chosen for its chances at international success beyond cultural and national borders. Jamali expressed his feeling that “I’m happy to have received this award. I’ve finished shooting my second film, and to be given the wonderful opportunity to be acknowledged in this way has given me faith in my own (style) to go forward in the future.”

Images: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/201911083288?p=images

The Best Asian Future Film Award went to “Summer Knight,” directed by You Xing, the Best Screenplay Award to Shin Adachi for his film “A Beloved Wife,” and the Best Artistic Contribution to Wang Rui’s Chinese feature, “Chaogtu with Sarula.” The Best Actor Award went to Navid Mohammadzadeh from “Just 6.5” and the Best Actress Award to Nadia Tereszkiewicz, from “Only the Animals.” The Best Director Award went to Saeed Roustaee for “Just 6.5,” the Special Jury Prize to “Atlantis” and the festival’s most prestigious award, the Tokyo Grand Prix, was given to Director Frelle Petersen for Danish film “Uncle.”

- The Japan Foundation Asia Center Presents CROSSCUT ASIA #06: Fantastic Southeast Asia

The Japan Foundation Asia Center and TIFF are now in their sixth year of collaboration. This endeavor aims to deepen mutual understanding within Asia by showcasing Asian films in Japan and by bringing Asian talent to the world through TIFF.

The Japan Foundation Asia Center’s CROSSCUT ASIA series showcases Asian films focused on particular countries, directors, or themes. This year’s CROSSCUT ASIA showcased films featuring genre films ranging from thrillers to romantic horrors, reflecting regional characteristics such as internationally acclaimed director Lav Diaz’s first-ever sci-fi thriller “The Halt.”

- Symposium: Female Directors Talk About the horror films of Southeast Asia

On October 29, taking the stage for a talk titled “The Discreet Charm of Girl’s Horror Talk,” three of Asia’s leading female directors, Antoinette Jadaone (“Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay”), Mattie Do (“The Long Walk”) and Sigrid Andrea P. Bernardo (“Untrue”), whose works were all screened in CROSSCUT ASIA #06, discussed the horror films of Southeast Asia. Said Do, “The genre looks male-dominated, but people making genre films help each other, come out for you, they’re there for you. It looks unwelcoming, but we need the female perspective in drama and women would find it a supportive world.”

The 32nd TIFF unspooled from October 28 to November 5, 2019.

Official Website:
The Japan Foundation Asia Center: https://jfac.jp/en/
Tokyo International Film Festival: https://2019.tiff-jp.net/en/

Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center at 31st Tokyo International Film ...

UNIJAPAN — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 16:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 8, 2018 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center
at 31st Tokyo International Film Festival Goes to
Huang Huang for His Film “Wushu Orphan”
During the 31st Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) Award Ceremony on November 2, Director Huang Huang won the Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center for his film “Wushu Orphan”. The award is bestowed on a promising director in the TIFF Asian Future section, chosen for its chances at international success beyond cultural and national borders. Accepting the award from the Japan Foundation President Hiroyasu Ando, Huang thanked the jury and TIFF filmgoers in English, Japanese and Chinese, adding, “I may someday become a part of the ‘Asian past,’ but for now, thank you for this Asian Future award.”

(Photo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/201811060052?p=images)

The Best Asian Future Film Award went to “A First Farewell,” directed by Lina Wang. The festival’s most prestigious award, the Tokyo Grand Prix, was given to Mikhael Hers for “Amanda.”

The Japan Foundation Asia Center and TIFF are now in their fifth year of collaboration. This endeavor aims to deepen mutual understanding within Asia by showcasing Asian films in Japan and Japanese films in Asia, and by bringing Asian talent to the world through TIFF.

World Premiere of Asian Omnibus Film Series: Asian Three-Fold Mirror

The world premiere of “Asian Three-Fold Mirror 2018: Journey,” the second in a series of Asian omnibus films, was held on October 26. The co-production project aims to deepen interactions between neighboring countries within Asia, as well as to enrich cultural understanding and explore Asian identities and ways of life.

At the world premiere screening, three young directors, Degena Yun (China), Daishi Matsunaga (Japan), and Edwin (Indonesia) presented their films along with their cast members: popular Indonesian actor Nicholas Saputra, acclaimed Chinese actress Jin Chen, up-and-coming actress Zhe Gong, striking Japanese actor Hiroki Hasegawa, Myanmar actress Nandar Myat Aung who is making her feature film debut, popular Indonesian actress Agni Pratistha, and her compatriot actor Oka Antara.

The Japan Foundation Asia Center Presents CROSSCUT ASIA #05: Soundtrip to Southeast Asia

The Japan Foundation Asia Center’s CROSSCUT ASIA series showcases Asian films focused on particular countries, directors, actors or themes. This year, CROSSCUT ASIA #05: Soundtrip to Southeast Asia showcased films featuring a rich variety of musical genres, reflecting historical and present-day Southeast Asia.

- Symposium: Directors Talk About Their “Soundtrip Cinema”
On October 26, Garin Nugroho from “Chaotic Love Poems”, Nguyen Quang Dung from “Go-Go Sisters” and Treb Monteras II from “Respeto” explained at the symposium that music has always been an integral aspect of filmmaking throughout the region.

The 31st Tokyo International Film Festival unspooled from October 25 to November 3, 2018.

Official Website:
The Japan Foundation Asia Center: https://jfac.jp/en/
Tokyo International Film Festival: https://2018.tiff-jp.net/en/
“Asian Three-Fold Mirror 2018: Journey": https://asian3mirror.jfac.jp/en/

"Amanda" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix at 31st Tokyo International Film Festival

UNIJAPAN — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 15:07:37 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 8, 2018 / Kyodo JBN / --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
"Amanda" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix
at 31st Tokyo International Film Festival
The 31st Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), held from October 25 to November 3, concluded with the announcement of winners at the Award Ceremony on its 9th day of the festival. This year, TIFF screened 181 films and 62,125 film fans (not including last day's turnout) attended the screenings. The Tokyo Grand Prix was awarded to "Amanda" directed by Mikhael Hers. Following are the winners of awards in all sections.

( Photo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/201811060047?p=images )

- Competition section
Tokyo Grand Prix: "Amanda" (directed by Mikhael Hers)
Special Jury Prize: "Before the Frost" (directed by Michael Noer)
Award for Best Director: Edoardo De Angelis ("The Vice of Hope")
Award for Best Actress: Pina Turco ("The Vice of Hope")
Award for Best Actor: Jesper Christensen ("Before the Frost")
Award for Best Artistic Contribution: "The White Crow" (directed by Ralph Fiennes)
Award for Best Screenplay by WOWOW: "Amanda" (co-written by Maud Ameline and director Mikhael Hers)
Audience Award: "Another World" (directed by Junji Sakamoto)

- Asian Future section
Asian Future Best Film Award: "A First Farewell" (directed by Lina Wang)
The Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center: Director Huang Huang ("Wushu Orphan")

- Japanese Cinema Splash section
Best Film Award: "Lying to Mom" (directed by Katsumi Nojiri)
Japanese Cinema Splash Best Director Award: Director Masaharu Take ("The Gun"), Director Seiji Tanaka ("Melancholic")

- Gemstone Award: Mai Kiryu (“Lying to Mom”, “The Chrysanthemum and the Guillotine”), Lien Binh Phat (“The Tap Box”), Karelle Tremblay (“The Fireflies Are Gone”), and Nijiro Murakami (“The Gun”).

Jury President Brillante Ma Mendoza commented that “Amanda” is “a seemingly simple, but not simple film” and “a story of complex human emotions.” Mendoza then shared his thoughts on the festival overall: “We the jury had such a good time together. The past few days, it was quite challenging to choose the winners because of the vast diversity of the films.” He added thanks to those behind the scenes, like assistant directors, production managers and more, as well as TIFF’s volunteer staff for their “kindness, hospitality and warmth.”

Official Website:
31st Tokyo International Film Festival: https://2018.tiff-jp.net/en/

"Grain" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix at 30th Tokyo International Film Festival

UNIJAPAN — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 9, 2017 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
"Grain" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix
at 30th Tokyo International Film Festival
The 30th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), held from October 25 to November 3, concluded with the announcement of winners at the Closing Ceremony on its final day. This year, TIFF screened 231 films and 63,679 film fans attended the screenings. The Tokyo Grand Prix was awarded to "Grain" directed by Semih Kaplanoglu. For the winners of awards in all sections, please see below.

(Photo: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201711087727/?images)

- Competition section
Tokyo Grand Prix: "Grain" (directed by Semih Kaplanoglu)
Special Jury Prize: "Crater" (directed by Silvia Luzi, Luca Bellino)
Award for Best Director: Edmund Yeo ("AQERAT (We the Dead)")
Award for Best Actress: Adeline D'Hermy ("Maryline")
Award for Best Actor: Duan Yihong ("The Looming Storm")
Award for Best Artistic Contribution: "The Looming Storm" (directed by Dong Yue)
Award for Best Screenplay by WOWOW: “Euthanizer” (written and directed by Teemu Nikki)
Audience Award: "Tremble All You Want" (directed by Akiko Ooku)

- Asian Future section
Best Asian Future Film Award: "Passage of Life" (directed by Akio Fujimoto)
The Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center: Director Akio Fujimoto ("Passage of Life")

- Japanese Cinema Splash section
Best Picture Award: "Of Love & Law" (directed by Hikaru Toda)

- SAMURAI Award: Composer and musician Ryuichi Sakamoto

- Gemstone Award: Mayu Matsuoka (“Tremble All You Want” actress), Shizuka Ishibashi (“THE TOKYO NIGHT SKY IS ALWAYS THE DENSEST SHADE OF BLUE” actress), Adeline D'Hermy (“Maryline” actress), Daphne Low (“AQERAT (We the Dead)” actress)

In awarding the prize to Kaplanoglu, jury president Tommy Lee Jones said, “We were impressed by this movie’s appreciation of the common understanding among all people through a shared mythic experience.” He then shared his own thoughts on the 30th TIFF, praising his fellow jury members, calling them “very bright filmmakers and thoughtful people.” He also noted they had a very international mix, saying, “We speak five different languages and needed five different interpreters…it felt like the United Nations! But we’re more humorous than the United Nations.” Jones also laid out his final feelings about TIFF and the jury’s final selections: “Festivals, at their best, are meant to relieve filmmakers and audiences from strict commercial demands,” and added, “As filmmakers, we have not been born and raised to waste your time, we have been born to improve it -- and I know that I can speak for this jury when I say we remain your humble and hopeful servants.”

Official Website:
30th Tokyo International Film Festival: www.tiff-jp.net/en/

Akio Fujimoto’s “Passage of Life” Wins “The Spirit of Asia Award by The Japan Foundation ...

UNIJAPAN — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 9, 2017 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
Akio Fujimoto’s “Passage of Life” Wins “The Spirit
of Asia Award by The Japan Foundation Asia Center”
at 30th Tokyo International Film Festival
At the 30th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) Closing Ceremony on November 3, “Passage of Life,” directed by Akio Fujimoto, won the Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center. The award was bestowed on a promising director in the TIFF Asian Future section, chosen by two jury members for its chances at international success beyond cultural and national borders. Fujimoto, a first-time feature film director, was joined on stage by the “family” who appeared in the film, all of whom were non-professional actors, and said, “I’m happy we were able to make this film in cooperation with Japan and Myanmar.”

(Photo: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201711077689/?images)

“Passage of Life” also won the Best Asian Future Film Award. The festival’s most prestigious award, the Tokyo Grand Prix, was given to Semih Kaplanoglu for “Grain.”

- The Japan Foundation Asia Center Presents CROSSCUT ASIA #04: What’s Next from Southeast Asia
The Japan Foundation Asia Center’s CROSSCUT ASIA series showcases Asian films with a focus on specific countries, directors and themes during the festival. Following the first three editions, which featured Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia, the fourth edition encompassed a larger area of Southeast Asia to mark the 50th anniversary of the formation of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). During the festival, which ran from October 25 to November 3, CROSSCUT ASIA introduced 13 films from Southeast Asia, including nine feature films and four short films.

This year’s CROSSCUT ASIA focused on the genealogy of Southeast Asian cinema as the maestros pass the baton to the next generation. It introduced such works as director HF Yambao’s “Kristo” (2016), recommended by Brillante Ma Mendoza; Kirsten Tan’s “Pop Aye” (2017), recommended by Eric Khoo; Wichanon Somumjarn’s “In April the Following Year, There Was a Fire” (2012), recommended by Apichatpong Weerasethakul; and short films by young Cambodian directors recommended by Rithy Panh.

- Symposium: Seeking World Recognition from Southeast Asia, Rising Stars Challenging New Forms of Filmmaking"
On October 27, Kirsten Tan from “Pop Aye,” B.W. Purba Negara from “Tales of the Otherwords,” HF Yambao from “Kristo” and Brillante Ma Mendoza, who recommended “Kristo,” appeared at the symposium with Kenji Ishizaka, Programming Director of CROSSCUT ASIA #04. Tan said that she struggled to manage many crew members and assistants for the animal. “The elephant is probably the best actor in my film because he’s not acting, he’s just doing his own thing,” said Tan. Negara shared his experience of working with nonprofessional actors, including the 95-year-old star. “Sometimes she improvised and sometimes for too long, but it’s okay because I work in documentaries.” Yambao, who was mentored by Mendoza, worked with a very limited budget and shot the film in five days. “I decided not to stage anything, and just went to actual events that were featured in the film.” Mendoza revealed his way of filmmaking, such as not providing scripts to actors in order to bring out fresh acting. As to new projects, Yambao is preparing a story about why he makes films, while Negara is working on a film about a traditional Indonesian art.

- The Japan Foundation Asia Center/ UNIJAPAN Seminar:
Learn from the Philippines! Promoting film locations: Lessons for Japan
A large number of world-famous masterpieces, such as “Apocalypse Now,” have been shot in the Philippines. However, big-budget films related to Japan, such as “Silence” and “Ghost in the Shell,” were not filmed in Japan. At the seminar on October 26, the representative of Film Development Council of the Philippines, Liza Dino-Seguerra, and Viva Communications licensing and acquisitions VP Tina B. Tubongbanua, director Hideo Nakata, Sapporo Film Commission representative Arifumi Sato and Asian Future Programming Director Kenji Ishizaka talked about why the Philippines became a favorite destination for foreign film productions and the possibilities for Japan.
“We aim to be a one-stop shop for foreign productions,” Dino-Seguerra said. Low cost and accessibility are some of the reasons why the Philippines is popular for filming. According to Nakata, Japanese organizations, including local governments and security agencies, have strong regulations for international productions that make shooting difficult, and English unfamiliarity is also an issue. However, Sato said that Sapporo is becoming popular for Philippine and Asian film productions because of the friendly local film commission and beautiful locations. For example, “I See You” aka “Kita Kita” was a big Philippine indie hit following its July 2017 release.

Official Website:
The Japan Foundation Asia Center: http://jfac.jp/en/
Tokyo International Film Festival: http://2017.tiff-jp.net/en/

"The Bloom of Yesterday" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix of 29th Tokyo International Film Festival

UNIJAPAN — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 17:30:13 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 7, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
"The Bloom of Yesterday" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix of 29th Tokyo International Film Festival
The 29th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), held from October 25 to November 3, concluded with the announcement of award winners at a closing ceremony. This year, TIFF screened 206 films and 60,589 film fans attended the screenings. The Tokyo Grand Prix was awarded to "The Bloom of Yesterday," directed by Chris Kraus of Germany. For the award winners in all sections, please see below.

(Photo1: From left: Tokyo Grand Prix winners Director Chris Kraus and Producer Kathrin Lemme, and Jury President Jean-Jacques Beineix (C) 2016 TIFF
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102849/201611076010/_prw_OI1fl_87T5wp3i.JPG)

(Photo2: All winners of 29th TIFF (C) 2016 TIFF
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102849/201611076010/_prw_OI2fl_5D7843nS.JPG)

- Competition section
Tokyo Grand Prix: "The Bloom of Yesterday" (directed by Chris Kraus)
Special Jury Prize: "Sami Blood" (directed by Amanda Kernell)
Award for Best Director: Hana Jusic ("Quit Staring at My Plate")
Award for Best Actress: Lene Cecilia Sparrok ("Sami Blood")
Award for Best Actor: Paolo Ballesteros ("Die Beautiful")
Award for Best Artistic Contribution: "Mr. No Problem" (directed by Mei Feng)
Audience Award: "Die Beautiful" (directed by Jun Robles Lana)
WOWOW Viewer's Choice Award: "The Bloom of Yesterday" (directed by Chris Kraus)

- Asian Future section
Best Asian Future Film Award: "Birdshot" (directed by Mikhail Red)
Spirit of Asia Award by Japan Foundation Asia Center: Director Alankrita Shrivastava ("Lipstick Under My Burkha")

- Japanese Cinema Splash section
Best Picture Award: "POOLSIDEMAN" (directed by Hirobumi Watanabe)

- SAMURAI Award: Director Martin Scorsese, Director Kiyoshi Kurosawa

- ARIGATO Award: Makoto Shinkai (Director), Mitsuki Takahata (Actress), Satoshi Tsumabuki (Actor), Godzilla (King of Monsters)

Jury President Jean-Jacques Beineix wrapped up the ceremony as follows. "The 16 films that have been submitted cannot pretend to represent the cinema in its whole. They nevertheless give a striking view of it. Those films give a sizzling scope of the vision of moviemakers. Moviemakers are witnesses of their times -- we need them to enlarge our comprehension of the world. Through those 16 films we could feel anxiety, fear of exclusion, racism, pessimism, loneliness, need of justice, and acceptance of our differences. Our awesome differences are our common wealth. Through all those points of views, cinema teaches us how to respect each other and to design the need for a more tolerant world, more respectful of our customs, our singularities. A universal film does not exist but through its diversity, cinema contributes greatly to opening our minds and to express the beauty of humanity. It gives us a glimpse of a better world. Thank you."

Official website:
29th Tokyo International Film Festival: http://www.tiff-jp.net/en/

29th Tokyo International Film Festival's "Spirit of Asia Award by Japan Foundation Asia Center" ...

UNIJAPAN — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 17:00:25 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 7, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
29th Tokyo International Film Festival's "Spirit of Asia Award by Japan Foundation Asia Center" Goes to "Lipstick Under My Burkha" Directed by Alankrita Shrivastava of India
During a closing ceremony at the 29th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) on November 3, "Lipstick Under My Burkha," directed by Alankrita Shrivastava of India, won the "Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center." The award is bestowed on a promising director in the TIFF Asian Future section, chosen by three jury members for its chances of international success beyond cultural and national borders. Accepting her award from Hiroyasu Ando, President of the Japan Foundation, the young Indian director expressed her gratitude to both TIFF and the producer of her film, and commented, "I really believe that the spirit of Asia is the spirit of world peace across all countries. And I really feel that the women of Asia, particularly, should come together to build a more peaceful Asia and peaceful world."

(Photo1: Director Alankrita Shrivastava, the winner of the "Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center" (C) 2016 TIFF
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102849/201611076008/_prw_OI1fl_728RF2O9.JPG)

(Photo2: From left: Hiroyasu Ando, President of the Japan Foundation, Director Alankrita Shrivastava and Producer Plabita Borthakur (C) 2016 TIFF
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102849/201611076008/_prw_OI2fl_wVz037VO.JPG)

(Photo3: All winners of 29th TIFF (C) 2016 TIFF
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102849/201611076008/_prw_OI3fl_GF8xwK8v.JPG)

(Photo4: "Asian Three-Fold Mirror 2016: Reflections" press conference (directors and cast) (C) 2016 TIFF
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102849/201611076008/_prw_OI4fl_0a4E77up.jpg)

(Photo5: CROSSCUT ASIA #03: Colorful Indonesia Symposium (C) 2016 TIFF
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M102849/201611076008/_prw_OI5fl_VG9O8gHZ.JPG)

The "Best Asian Future Film Award" went to "Birdshot," directed by Mikhail Red of the Philippines, who commented: "I share this award with all the other struggling young filmmakers out there who wanted to fly but were shot down, who wanted to speak out but were silenced." The festival's most prestigious award, the "Tokyo Grand Prix," was given to Chris Kraus of Germany for "The Bloom of Yesterday."

The Japan Foundation Asia Center and TIFF are now in their third year of collaboration. In 2014, they jointly launched an Asia-focused film culture exchange initiative, which will run until 2020, when the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics are to be held. This endeavor aims to deepen mutual understanding within Asia by showcasing Asian films in Japan and Japanese films in Asia, and by bringing Asian talent to the world through TIFF. With the festival as a communication hub for the Asian film industry, the partners are building a future-oriented network in the region and furthering cultural exchanges.

World Premiere of Asian Omnibus Film Series: "Asian Three-Fold Mirror"

The world premiere of "Asian Three-Fold Mirror 2016: Reflections," the first of a series of Asian omnibus films, was held on October 26 during the festival. The ongoing co-production project aims to deepen interactions between neighboring countries within Asia, as well as to enrich cultural understanding and explore Asian identities and ways of life. The protagonist of each chapter is an Asian living in a different Asian country, allowing the directors to express their own unique visions, and to film on location in their own or other Asian countries, including Japan, the Philippines, Cambodia and Malaysia.

At the world premiere screening, three accomplished directors, Brillante Ma Mendoza (Philippines), Isao Yukisada (Japan) and Sotho Kulikar (Cambodia), showed up to present their films along with their cast members: acclaimed Filipino actor Lou Veloso, one of the most respected Japanese actors Masahiko Tsugawa, Malaysian actress Sharifah Amani, popular Japanese actor Masaya Kato and Cambodian actress Chumvan Sodhachivy.

Japan Foundation Asia Center presents CROSSCUT ASIA #03: "Colorful Indonesia"

The Japan Foundation Asia Center's CROSSCUT ASIA series showcases Asian films with a focus on particular countries, directors, actors or themes. Following the first and second editions, which featured Thailand and the Philippines respectively, this year's third edition focused on Indonesia, a country whose cultural diversity is unparalleled. The section featured works from young filmmakers who richly portray themes relevant to modern society, such as religion, ethnicity, gender and various forms of love. Among the region's promising new generation of directors, TIFF guests included Teddy Soeriaatmadja, who presented his "Trilogy about Intimacy," Riri Riza, Nia Dinata, Mouly Surya, Ifa Isfansyah, Edwin, Kamila Andini and Angga Dwimas Sasongko.

The 29th Tokyo International Film Festival unspooled from October 25 to November 3, 2016.

Official website:
Japan Foundation Asia Center http://jfac.jp/en/
Tokyo International Film Festival http://2016.tiff-jp.net/en/
"Asian Three-Fold Mirror 2016: Reflections" http://asian3mirror.jfac.jp

Highlights of Talk Events with Two Iconic Directors, Mamoru HOSODA and Shunji IWAI, at Tokyo...

UNIJAPAN — Wed, 02 Nov 2016 19:30:32 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 2, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
Highlights of Talk Events with Two Iconic Directors, Mamoru HOSODA and Shunji IWAI, at Tokyo International Film Festival
The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) screened more than 200 films, highlighting the work of two iconic directors, Mamoru HOSODA and Shunji IWAI, as well as hosting an exciting lineup of talk events featuring them in discussion with special guests from October 25 to November 3, 2016, at Roppongi Hills and other venues in Tokyo.

This year's Animation Focus shined a spotlight on Mamoru HOSODA, the brilliantly inventive director whose "Summer Wars" (2009) and "Wolf Children" (2012) were local and international hits, and whose latest masterpiece, "The Boy and the Beast" (2015), became the highest-grossing Japanese box-office film in 2015. TIFF screened 10 of Hosoda's works from his 20-year career.

Film and animation lovers who came to watch the October 26 screening of Hosoda's "Wolf Children" were in for a special treat: Both Hosoda and Hirokazu KORE-EDA, director of "Nobody Knows" and "Our Little Sister," took the stage after the film for a free-flowing conversation about the interesting parallels and similarities in their works, such as the absence of father figures, strong maternal figures and the theme of family.

On October 29, after the screenings of Daisuke "Dice" TSUTSUMI's Oscar-nominated "The Dam Keeper" and "Moom," he talked with Hosoda about their encounter several years ago that resulted in Tsutsumi's big decision to leave his position at Pixar. Tsutsumi said with a laugh, "If my work doesn't go well, it might be Mr. Hosoda who's to blame as he was the one who told me 'you are better suited to being a director than the art director!'"

In this year's Japan Now section, the Director in Focus was internationally acclaimed creator Shunji IWAI. From his "Love Letter" (1995), which put him on the world stage, to his latest masterpiece, "A Bride for Rip Van Winkle" (2016), Iwai's films have continued to be in a class all their own.

On October 28, following TIFF's sold-out screening of "Love Letter," Iwai appeared with his leading lady, Miho NAKAYAMA. Nakayama, who played both leads in the film, recalled, "I was really a bit concerned about whether I would be able to differentiate the roles. I suggested changing one of the character's hairstyles, at least. But the director said, 'Don't,' and I felt even more concerned. But once we started shooting, I felt more confident."

Later on the same day, Iwai again took to the stage with his "Swallowtail Butterfly" star, Chara, and was greeted by prolonged applause. Chara recalls, "Swallowtail was a great experience and I loved making it. My life changed completely. It was the starting point of many stories for us." Iwai nodded in agreement. "I was so happy to work together," he said.

Japan Content Showcase 2016: Record-Breaking Number of Exhibitors and Buyer Registrations Record...

UNIJAPAN — Mon, 31 Oct 2016 17:30:17 +0900

TOKYO, Oct. 31, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Japan Content Showcase Organizer's Office (UNIJAPAN)
Japan Content Showcase 2016: Record-Breaking Number of Exhibitors and Buyer Registrations Record High Growth!
Japan Content Showcase (JCS), organized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Foundation for Promotion of Music Industry and Culture (TIMM), UNIJAPAN (TIFFCOM) and the Association of Japanese Animations (TIAF), and JCS 2016 successfully ended on October 27. This year, JCS expanded its venue to Daiba and Shibuya from October 24 (Monday) to 27 (Thursday) during its 4-day period as JCS marked the 5th year of holding the multi-content market.

The number of exhibitors at JCS 2016: 356 (233 domestic / 123 overseas) from 20 countries and regions, updated as the best record. In addition, there were 7 international pavilions: Cambodia, Indonesia, South Korea (KOCCA, KOFIC, and KOFIC (Busan Digital Contents)), Malaysia, and Taiwan. Best 3 overseas countries/region: 1. Korea, 2. Taiwan, 3. Cambodia (2015: 1. Korea, 2. Taiwan, 3. Cambodia and Malaysia) and Egypt for the first time.

The number of buyers jumped as Chinese and ASEAN buyers increased, registering a new record of 1,539 from 49 countries and regions. Best 3 overseas countries/region: 1. Korea, 2. mainland China, 3. Hong Kong (2015: 1. Korea, 2. Hong Kong, 3. Taiwan). First-timers from Austria and Kenya.

This year, a VR corner was included as a new feature, and new exhibitors such as talent agencies were invited. By gathering a variety of content from many genres, not only was JCS a market for distributing Asian content throughout the world, but also it was a platform for promoting networking between industry players.

Key Figures of 2016
                                            2016            2015
Number of Exhibitors      356 (up 2.6%)       347
Number of Buyers        1,539 (up 7.4%)    1,433

Outline of Japan Content Showcase 2016
- "Japan Content Showcase 2016," a multi-content market featuring music, film and animation, was held as a joint market of the following:
TIMM - Tokyo International Music Market
TIFFCOM - Affiliated market of the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
(The only film festival in Japan approved by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations)
TIAF - Tokyo International Anime Festival
- Date: October 24 (Mon.) - 27 (Thu.), 2016
- Venue: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba, Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
- Website: http://www.jcs.tokyo/en/

TIFF Announces Main Cast and Details of Omnibus Film Production "Asian Three-Fold Mirror 2016"...

UNIJAPAN — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 15:00:29 +0900

TOKYO, Mar. 14, 2016 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
TIFF Announces Main Cast and Details of Omnibus Film Production "Asian Three-Fold Mirror 2016" Revealed
The Japan Foundation Asia Center and the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) announced on March 14 the main cast for the omnibus film co-production project "Asian Three-Fold Mirror," which was launched in 2014, as part of collaboration between the Center and TIFF. The project aims to deepen interactions between neighboring countries within Asia, as well as enriching cultural understanding and providing chance for people to consider their identity and way of life as individuals in Asia.

As previously announced, three accomplished directors from Asia have been selected to contribute chapters to the first iteration of the "Asian Three-Fold Mirror": Brillante Ma. Mendoza (Philippines), Isao Yukisada (Japan) and Sotho Kulikar (Cambodia).

It has been confirmed that acclaimed Filipino actor Lou Veloso will be starring in Mendoza's episode, and one of the most famous Japanese actors, Masahiko Tsugawa, will be starring in Yukisada's chapter, along with Japanese actor Masatoshi Nagase and Malaysian actress Sharifah Amani. Japanese actor Masaya Kato and Cambodian actress Chumvan Sodhachivy will be appearing in the episode by Kulikar. The protagonist of each chapter is an Asian living in a different Asian country, allowing the directors to express their own unique visions and film on location in Asia and to create one omnibus film. The directors will be shooting in Japan, the Philippines, Cambodia and Malaysia from February to April 2016, followed by post-production at the highly regarded laboratory in Asia, Imagica South East Asia, in Malaysia in summer 2016.

The omnibus film will have its world premiere at the 29th Tokyo International Film Festival, to be held from October 25 to November 3, 2016, and will then be shown on the international film festival circuit.

Official Website:
Japan Foundation Asia Center: http://jfac.jp/en/
Tokyo International Film Festival: http://tiff-jp.net/en/

Omnibus Film Production: "Asian Three-Fold Mirror"
"Asian Three-Fold Mirror" is a collaborative film series between the Japan Foundation Asia Center and the Tokyo International Film Festival, bringing together three accomplished directors from Asian countries, including Japan. Just like a three-fold mirror, the omnibus films will reflect society and culture in today's Asia from three different angles, highlighting each director's unique vision.

Tokyo International Film Festival Holds Masters Session Jointly with Kyoto HISTORICA Int'l Film Fes.

UNIJAPAN — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 18:00:15 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 12, 2015 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival
Tokyo International Film Festival Holds Masters Session Jointly with Kyoto HISTORICA International Film Festival
The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) held a workshop called "Kyoto Filmmakers Lab" from Oct. 25 to 30 in collaboration with the Kyoto HISTORICA International Film Festival at the historical Ooe Nohgakudo Theater. A new program, "Masters Session," was added to support the continuous progress of young filmmakers and to assist their success in the film industry. TIFF arranged for one of the Masters Session and TIFF jury members from the Asian Future and Japanese Cinema Splash section to give a stimulating lecture, "Now and Future for Asian Cinema: The Standing Point of Asian Cinema," moderated by Mako Tanaka (Director of Kobe Film Office). 78 participants from 19 countries and regions attended this session.

At the session, guest speakers Jacob Wong (Curator, Hong Kong International Film Festival), Olivier Pere (Executive Director, ARTE France Cinema), Tatsushi Omori (Director), Mark Peranson (Head of Programming, Festival del Film Locarno) and Jeane Huang (Organizer of Urban Nomad Film Festival in Taiwan) talked about the present situation of the film industry and about independent filmmakers in their own countries and regions.

Referring to the situation in Japan, Omori said that although there are many independent films produced, fewer middle-budget films succeed in having both artistic and commercial elements compared to the past.

Pere said the situation in France is different in terms of support as the government supports cinema and French television channels are required to invest in film production, and especially ARTE is particularly interested in supporting new filmmakers. Wong from Hong Kong talked about the situation in mainland China as well as in Hong Kong. In mainland China, the major web companies are uniquely positioned to invest in and provide content as 60% of the moving images produced in mainland China are now seen on the consumer's cell phones or tablets and still there is enormous demand for content. Wong said this situation is a following wind for the independent filmmakers and that now the major websites are also producing films, adding that so young filmmakers could go to their studios and produce films for them. Following the panel's session, a Q&A session with the audience was held.

Japan Content Showcase Sees Record-Breaking Number of Participants

UNIJAPAN — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 13:00:14 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 6, 2015 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
Japan Content Showcase Sees Record-Breaking Number of Participants
Japan Content Showcase (JCS), organized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Foundation for Promotion of Music Industry and Culture (TIMM), UNIJAPAN (TIFFCOM) and the Association of Japanese Animations (TIAF), took place in GRAND PACIFIC LE DAIBA, Tokyo, from October 20 to 22. During the three-day period, it welcomed 24,291 participants, the largest number in its history.

This year JCS marks the 4th year as the multi-content market featuring music, films and animation. The high-powered seminars with hot topics including VOD business were held and received great response from the market participants. Many pitching sessions and matching events were also held and provided beneficial business opportunities and networking among participants from all over the world. Market screening and showcase live were successful in gathering attention from the industry professionals who looked for uprising talents from Japan.

We see that these figures truly reflect on the hard fact that JCS has been valued as a leading market in Asia, covering an extensive range of content markets such as Film, TV, Anime, and Music.

Indeed, at JCS2015 this year, more efforts were made to offer as much information as possible to make many participants satisfied by expanding the scale and number of seminars, matching events, and screenings.

Aiming to meet everybody's expectations as the leading market, second to none in Asia, JCS will begin to move forward for the next year.  Please be sure to participate.

- Key Figures of 2015
                                                2015              2014
Number of Exhibitors            347 (up  5%)          332
Number of Buyers             1,433 (up 24%)       1,160
Number of Participants     24,291 (up 33%)     18,318

- Japan Content Showcase 2015
"Japan Content Showcase 2015," a multi-content market featuring music, films and animation, was held at the "GRAND PACIFIC LE DAIBA" as a joint market of the following:
TIMM - Tokyo International Music Market
TIFFCOM - Affiliated market of Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
(The only film festival in Japan approved by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations)
TIAF - Tokyo International Anime Festival
Date: October 20 - 22, 2015
Venue: GRAND PACIFIC LE DAIBA
Website: http://www.jcs.tokyo/en/

JAPANESE CLASSICS - Featuring Kurosawa's 4K digital "RAN"

UNIJAPAN — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:00:46 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 5, 2015 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
JAPANESE CLASSICS - Featuring Kurosawa's 4K digital "RAN" and Kabuki-set Masterpiece "They Who Step on the Tiger's Tail," and Commemorative Screening of Films Starring Ken Takakura
To mark 30 years since its original release, the 4K digital restoration of Akira Kurosawa's "RAN" was presented on October 25 as part of the Japan Classics section of the 28th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF). Actor Tatsuya Nakadai, actress Mieko Harada, costume designer Emi Wada, who earned an Academy Award for costume design for her work on "RAN," Kurosawa's long-time assistant Teruyo Nogami, and assistant director Vittorio Dalle Ore were in attendance for a symposium after the screening. At this symposium, Nakadai recalled the filming of a climactic scene where he was to descend the staircase of a burning castle. "We spent one week just rehearsing. Master Kurosawa told me, 'Don't trip! If you make a mistake it'll cost me 400 million yen.' On the big day I kept chanting to myself, '400 million yen, 400 million yen'. Over the course of the filming, I got yelled at a lot and there were many hard times, but I think we did a good job," he reflected back with satisfaction.

As part of the "Ken Takakura and His Era: Commemorative Screening" to honor the actor, who passed away last November, "A Distant Cry From Spring" was screened on October 25 at TIFF. Actress Chieko Baisho, who starred with Takakura in 1980, spoke about her experiences working with Takakura at a talk show after the film. The event was the first time Baisho had spoken publicly about Takakura since his death. "We'll never see an actor like Ken again. Director Yoji Yamada used to say the most wonderful actors are the least self-indulgent. People without self-confidence play petty games, but he did nothing of the sort. He was really someone that I looked up to as an actor and a person."

Also as part of "Ken Takakura and His Era," the 1978 film "Proof of Wildness" was screened on October 26, with Ryoko Nakano, Takakura's co-star for both this work and "HOT PURSUIT" (1976), making an appearance to present the film. When Nakano talked about "HOT PURSUIT," the first foreign film to be screened in China after the Cultural Revolution, which captivated 800 million viewers, she spoke with enthusiasm: "Society in China was in a state where reality could become just like a film. It certainly fit the minds of the people at that time. Being able to closely identify with the story filled people with the burning feeling that 'We can do our best, let's work together.' It's a film that gave energy to the Chinese people as they built their nation."

Lastly, at TIFF's Special Night Event on October 26, a new 35 mm print of Kurosawa's 1945 Kabuki-adapted masterpiece "THEY WHO STEP ON THE TIGER'S TAIL" was screened with a dynamic Kabuki performance by one of today's leading kabuki actors, Kataoka Ainousuke. He said at the photo session, "I am going to do the performance in 'Kanjincho', which is the story that tonight's Kurosawa film is based on. As an actor, it was a great honor tonight to perform at the event with Kurosawa's film in the festival."

"Nise - The Heart of Madness" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix of 28th Tokyo International Film Festival

UNIJAPAN — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 21:00:15 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 2, 2015 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival
"Nise - The Heart of Madness" Wins Tokyo Grand Prix of 28th Tokyo International Film Festival
The 28th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) at Roppongi Hills, Tokyo, Japan from October 22 to 31 has successfully concluded. This year, TIFF screened 207 films and 63,738 film fans attended the screenings. The Tokyo Grand Prix was awarded to "Nise - The Heart of Madness," directed by Roberto Berliner. For the winners of award in all sections, please see below.

- Competition section
Tokyo Grand Prix: "Nise - The Heart of Madness" (directed by Roberto Berliner)
Special Jury Prize: "All Three of Us" (directed by Kheiron)
Award for Best Director: Mustafa Kara ("Cold of Kalandar")
Award for Best Actress: Gloria Pires ("Nise - The Heart of Madness")
Award for Best Actor: Roland Moller, Louis Hofman ("Land of Mine")
Award for Best Artistic Contribution: "Family Film" (directed by Olmo Omerzu)
Audience Award: "God Willing" (directed by Edoardo Falcone)
WOWOW Viewer's Choice Award: "Cold of Kalandar" (directed by Mustafa Kara)

- Asian Future section
Best Asian Future Film Award: "The Island Funeral" (directed by Pimpaka Towira)
The Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center: Director Degena Yun ("A Simple Goodbye")
- Japanese Cinema Splash section
Best Picture Award: "Ken and Kazu" (directed by Hiroshi Shoji)
- SAMURAI Award: Director Yoji Yamada, Director John Woo
- ARIGATO: Award: Kirin KIKI, Akihiro HINO, Suzu HIROSE, Mamoru HOSODA, Lily FRANKY

At the closing ceremony, Jury president Bryan Singer enthusiastically explained: "The most important part of filmmaking is creating a world that's believable. In the case of this film we all felt that it was as a believable film with a world full of sadness, humor and triumph." Berliner's words were: "It was a very cruel job. It took 13 years on this film. I rewrote it many times because Nise is such an important person who is a revolutionary figure. Only a few people know about her so it was my responsibility to show her to the world. In life, sometimes we know that we are doing something special, and I felt that way with this film."

For further details, please see the following link.
http://2015.tiff-jp.net/en/tiff/list_of_winners.html

Official Website:
28th Tokyo International Film Festival: http://2015.tiff-jp.net/en/

WORLD OF GUMDAM - 26 Films Screened in Special Program of 28th Tokyo International Film Festival

UNIJAPAN — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 18:00:28 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 2, 2015 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
WORLD OF GUMDAM - 26 Films Screened in Special Program of 28th Tokyo International Film Festival
- Two of Supervising Directors in Golden Age of Gundam Join After-screening Talk Shows -

The 28th Tokyo International Film Festival saw a special screening of "Gundam Reconguista in G" (G-Reco), part of the Mobile Suit Gundam 35th Anniversary Project, at Shinjuku Piccadilly in Tokyo on October 23. After the screening, director Yoshiyuki Tomino, who was involved in the production of the series for the first time in 15 years since "Turn A Gundam," and Yoichi Ochiai, who participated as media artist, presented a talk show.

The animation industry is now in a golden age of CG. However, this work consists of mostly hand-drawn pictures. Tomino said "it's said that hand-drawn anime looks really 'different', and in light of this, I want this culture to remain as a separate genre."

Furthermore, he revealed, "I made the universe of G-Reco because I wanted the next generation to think about the problem of consumption of resources on earth." Ochiai agreed with the importance of receiving a strong message through G-Reco. Tomino added, "I made it for planting the seeds of new thought in 10- to 15-year-olds."

Additionally, director Yoshikazu Yasuhiko served as character designer and animation director of "Mobile Suit Gundam" and voice actress Mayumi Tanaka attended another talk show on October 25. Tanaka previously worked with Yasuhiko on 3 projects, and did the voice for the main character, Casval Rem Deikun. About her casting, he recalled he told casting supervisor director Fujino "Casval has to be Tanaka." However, Fujino showed his disapproval on her mental picture from her previous famous voice role of "ONE PIECE." Tanaka was disappointed to hear that, but the audience gave her a huge round of applause.

Reminiscing about the period being at the forefront of animation production, he said, "I didn't have any good memories in anime because I don't think I have any talent, but now I'm fulfilled to the point where I can finally feel as though I'm working in anime. Thanks to my wonderful staff and cast, I can say I'm satisfied with the current and next films." He revealed this in a deeply emotional way.

28th TIFF Special Night Event at Kabukiza Theatre

UNIJAPAN — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 14:00:14 +0900

TOKYO, Oct. 28, 2015 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
28th TIFF Special Night Event at Kabukiza Theatre
- Features Leading Actor KATAOKA Ainosuke and SAMURAI Award Honorees John WOO and Yoji YAMADA -

Leading kabuki actor KATAOKA Ainosuke thrilled the audience at Tokyo's historic Kabukiza theatre with a performance of Goro in the Rain, kicking off the Tokyo International Film Festival's Special Night Event at Kabukiza Theatre. His performance was followed by a ceremony to present the 2nd SAMURAI Award to this year's recipients, John WOO and Yoji YAMADA. After the honorees received the crystal statuettes and made brief remarks, they were all joined onstage by surprise guests: actress Sayuri YOSHINAGA and director Keishi OTOMO. There followed a special screening of Akira KUROSAWA's kabuki-set prewar masterpiece "They Who Step on the Tiger's Tail."

- Date and Time: Mon., October 26, 5:30 pm
- Venue: Kabukiza Theatre
- Appearance: KATAOKA Ainosuke (Kabuki actor), John WOO, (Director), Yoji YAMADA (Director),

Special Guests: Sayuri YOSHINAGA (Actress) and Keishi OTOMO (Director)

Notes and quotes:

John Woo
"I'm incredibly excited to be here tonight, receiving the SAMURAI Award with a great master I greatly respect, Mr. Yamada. His films are filled with love and humanity, which is what makes cinema loved around the world. This is the humanity that made me fall in love with movies and decide to devote my life to making them. Japan has had so many great directors, writers and actors, and their work has always influenced me. Thank you to the festival, and to my friends who have supported me all these years."

Yoji Yamada
"I've been a part of the Tokyo International Film Festival from the very beginning, and my film 'The Yellow Handkerchief' was shown in the first edition. It makes me so happy and honored to receive the Samurai Award here tonight."

KATAOKA Ainosuke
"I am going to do the season's first performance in 'Kanjincho' in Kyoto, which is the story that tonight's Kurosawa's film, is based on. As an actor, it was a great honor tonight to perform at the event with Kurosawa's film in Tokyo International Film Festival. I will continue to do my best as a kabuki actor as well as in other roles."

Akira Kurosawa's Kabuki-to-Film Adaptation to Be Screened at 'Special Night at Kabukiza Theatre'

UNIJAPAN — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 18:00:15 +0900

TOKYO, Sept. 16 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
Akira Kurosawa's Kabuki-to-Film Adaptation to Be Screened at 'Special Night at Kabukiza Theatre'
The 28th Tokyo International Film Festival will be held from October 22 to 31 this year. In 2014, a new alternative event -- Special Night Event at Kabukiza Theatre -- was held, and this acclaimed event will take place again this year on October 26 as one of the highlights of the festival. This year's event will feature a new 35mm print with English subtitles of "They Who Step on the Tiger's Tail", which was filmed before World War II by the great master Akira Kurosawa. The film is an adaptation of famous Kabuki play 'Kanjincho (The Subscription List)'. As a special treat, renowned Kabuki actor Kataoka Ainosuke will appear on stage for performance.

Akira Kurosawa adapted Kabuki play 'Kanjincho' for the big screen and completed it as "They Who Step on the Tiger's Tail" in 1945 after the war. Japanese censors claimed that the film ridiculed 'Kanjincho' and the very existence of the film was kept hidden. GHQ prohibited the showing of many works, including "They Who Step on the Tiger's Tail", thinking they would hinder postwar democratization. This created a moment of crisis for the existence of Kabuki in Japan. The ban on the showing of "They Who Step on the Tiger's Tail" was finally lifted and ultimately Kabuki's crisis was averted in part by a group of GHQ officers who understood that art supersedes politics.

Before the screening of the movie, Kabuki actor Kataoka Ainosuke will appear in the Kabuki performance 'Ame no Goro (Goro in the rain)'. The performance, which includes dancing, the richness of the kabuki genre, and the beautifully picturesque Nihon Buyo, will be enjoyed by everyone.

Seventy years after the end of the war, this event of Japan's world-renowned Kabuki performance and Akira Kurosawa's masterpiece screening at the Kabukiza Theatre will be a night to remember and celebrate for national and international art devotees for whom art transcends international boundaries.

"28th TIFF presents Special Night Event at Kabukiza Theatre"
DATE: October 26 (Mon)
PROGRAM: Kabuki Performance 'Ame no Goro', Film Screening "They Who Step on the Tiger's Tail" directed by Akira Kurosawa
VENUE: Kabukiza Theatre

Japan Foundation Asia Center presents "CROSSCUT ASIA #02 The Heats of Philippine Cinema" at TIFF

UNIJAPAN — Fri, 15 May 2015 15:00:33 +0900

TOKYO, May 15 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
Japan Foundation Asia Center presents "CROSSCUT ASIA #02 The Heats of Philippine Cinema" at Tokyo International Film Festival
The Japan Foundation Asia Center and the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) jointly launched "CROSSCUT ASIA" last year, showcasing Asian films focusing on particular countries, directors, actors and themes. This year, we will focus on Philippine films as our second project.

http://2015.tiff-jp.net/en/press/pressrelease.html

As the second in the CROSSCUT ASIA series - which began with a special program on Thai cinema in the previous year - the Japan Foundation Asia Center and TIFF are turning their attention to the cinema of the Philippines. Renowned around the world, Philippine cinema boasts a rich history and is now in a *"Third Golden Age." This year's CROSSCUT ASIA features a noteworthy lineup, including a special program of the works of director Brillante Ma. Mendoza, who is known for his film "Kinatay" which won Best Director award at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival. His new film "TAKLUB" has been selected in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival this year.

The 28th TIFF will take place October 22-31, 2015 at Roppongi Hills and other venues in Tokyo.

Brillante Ma. Mendoza is a living national treasure of Philippine independent cinema. He is one of the most prominent Filipino filmmakers today. He is the first Filipino to compete and won at three major international film festivals, showing authentic Filipino stories to the world. His film, "Captive," competed at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2012, while "Tirador (Slingshot)" won the Caligari Film Award in 2007 of the same festival. "Thy Womb" won the La Navicella Venezia Cinema Award in the equally prestigious Venice Film Festival in 2012, while "Lola" was selected in competition at the same festival in 2009. But his most notable achievement came when he won the Best Director Award at the Cannes Film Festival for his film "Kinatay" in 2009. The year before, his film, "Serbis (Service)," was selected in competition at the same festival. Known to his peers as "Dante," he started his career as a production designer in various films and television advertisements. In 2005, he founded Center Stage Productions (CSP), an independent film production outfit that aims to rethink and reinvent Filipino cinema by producing meaningful and relevant films. His debut film, "Masahista (The Masseur)" won the Golden Leopard Award at the 2005 Locarno International Film Festival in Switzerland and paved the way for the rise of Alternative Cinema in the Philippines.

A message from Director Brillante Ma. Mendoza:
"I am delighted to be a part of this year's Tokyo International Film Festival where my film as well as other works from the Philippines (will be shown). The Tokyo International Film Festival is a great occasion for everyone as it showcases not only movies from the Philippines but a variety of works from around the globe that are not available at everyday cinemas. I hope everyone will have a chance to appreciate these works."

CROSSCUT ASIA
CROSSCUT ASIA is a showcase of Asian films focusing on particular countries, directors, actors and themes. This unveils hidden gems of Asian films that portray modern Asia.

Tokyo International Film Festival Showcases Shuji Terayama and Orson Welles

UNIJAPAN — Wed, 13 May 2015 16:00:32 +0900

TOKYO, May 13 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
Tokyo International Film Festival Showcases Shuji Terayama and Orson Welles
- Retrospective Screenings of Works by Geniuses of East and West at 28th TIFF -

The 28th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) is pleased to announce in Cannes, that we will have two special screenings of works by Shuji Terayama - who used his multiple talents as a poet and a director of stage and screen to lead the underground cultural scenes of the 1960s - and works by Orson Welles - whose influence on modern cinematography through such masterpieces as "Citizen Kane" is incalculable.
The 28th TIFF will take place October 22-31, 2015 at Roppongi Hills and other venues in Tokyo.

- Terayama Films
In commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Terayama's birth, the festival will screen a special selection of the feature films that Terayama directed. This special selection includes, among other full-length works, "Pastoral: To Die in the Country (Den'en ni Shisu)" (1974), which was selected in the competition section of the 28th Cannes International Film Festival.

Shuji Terayama:
Born in 1935 in Aomori Prefecture. Terayama wrote haiku since his youth and was active as a tanka poet during his days as a student at Waseda University. After dropping out of school, Terayama worked as a playwright, radio dramatist and screenwriter. In 1967, at age 31, he established the theater troupe Tenjo Sajiki. Terayama in 1971 wrote and directed his first full-length film, "Throw Away Your Books, Rally in the Streets," which won the Grand Prize at the San Remo Film Festival. "Pastoral: To Die in the Country," which Terayama directed in 1974, was screened at the 1975 Cannes International Film Festival. Though suffering from illness at the time, Terayama directed "Farewell to the Ark" in 1982. He died of his illness at the age of 47 in 1983. The dramas, films and words that Terayama left to this world continue to inspire people of all generations around the world.

- Orson Welles Retrospective at His Centenary (tentative title)
Orson Welles Retrospective will be co-hosted by the National Film Center, Motion Picture Association, Japan and International Motion Pictures Copyright Association. This retrospective celebrates the centennial of the birth of Orson Welles (1915-1985), who produced many legendary works in the history of global cinema following his sensational debut with "Citizen Kane" (1941). Welles's energetic and creative directorial style gave rise to an expansive filmography that includes numerous unfinished works and multiple versions of his films. At the centenary of Welles's birth, this special selection of his work - to be presented with the cooperation of the Munich Film Museum - includes "Citizen Kane" and comes closer to understanding "the unknown Orson Welles."

Orson Welles:
Orson Welles was born in 1915. In 1938, his theater group performed a radio play based on "The War of the Worlds" by H.G. Wells, which caused a nationwide sensation in the United States. His debut film as director, "Citizen Kane," received critical acclaim. However, from Welles's second film, "The Magnificent Ambersons," onward, he became one of "cursed filmmakers," doomed to see one film after another released in a form differing from his original vision or canceled during production. Regardless, his works are each stamped indelibly with his fierce individuality and never cease to impress cinema fans. Welles also had an active career as an actor. He died in 1985.

Note: The screening titles are subject to change.

"Heaven Knows What" Won Tokyo Grand Prix of 27th Tokyo International Film Festival

UNIJAPAN — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 17:00:18 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 14 /Kyodo JBN/ --
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF)
"Heaven Knows What" Won Tokyo Grand Prix of 27th Tokyo International Film Festival
The 27th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) at Roppongi Hills, Tokyo, Japan from October 23 to 31, has successfully concluded.
This year, TIFF screened around 200 films and over 44,700 film fans attended the screenings. The Tokyo Grand Prix was awarded to "Heaven Knows What," directed by Josh Safdie and Benny Safdie. For the all section's award winners, please see below.

- Competition section
Tokyo Grand Prix: "Heaven Knows What" (directed by Joshua Safdie, Benny Safdie)
Special Jury Prize: "The Lesson" (directed by Kristina Grozeva, Petar Valchanov)
Award for Best Director: Joshua Safdie, Benny Safdie ("Heaven Knows What")
Award for Best Actress: Rie Miyazawa ("Pale Moon")
Award for Best Actor: Robert Wieckiewicz ("The Mighty Angel")
Award for Best Artistic Contribution: "Test" (directed by Alexander Kott)
The Audience Award: "Pale Moon" (directed by Daihachi Yoshida)
WOWOW Viewer's Choice Award: "Test" (directed by Alexander Kott)

- Asian Future section
Best Asian Future Film Award: "Borderless" (directed by Amirhossein Asgari)
The Spirit of Asia Award by the Japan Foundation Asia Center: Director Sotho Kulikar ("The Last Reel")

- Japanese Cinema Splash section
Best Picture Award: "100 Yen Love" (directed by Masaharu Take)
Special Mention: "Ecotherapy Getaway Holiday" (directed by Shuichi Okita)

- SAMURAI Award: Director Takeshi Kitano, Director Tim Burton

For further details, please see the following link.
http://2014.tiff-jp.net/en/tiff/list_of_winners.html

Also, the multi-content market "Japan Content Showcase 2014" (JCS) at the Hotel Grand Pacific LE DAIBA, Tokyo Japan from October 21 to 23, has successfully ended.
331 exhibitor organizations from 25 countries and regions, and 1,160 buyers from 39 countries and regions, JCS achieved a significant increase in exhibitors and buyers for an all-time high in our history as it welcomed.

Joined by more than 18,000 participants, Three days of the JCS was filled up with business meetings, seminars, pitching sessions, showcase lives and networking parties. The JCS wrapped up with the opening reception of 27th Tokyo International Film Festival and live performance event "JAPAN NIGHT" that featured Japanese top artists.

As a special feature, leading Japanese broadcasting networks and their affiliates set up large-scale TV network pavilions in an attempt to create vibrant environment for business by bringing the shooting sets from their TV programs into their own exhibition zones. It seems to have benefited to make their businesses more than active.

From the globe, the JCS welcomed the National Pavilions from Cambodia, Canada, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan and Thailand and first-time exhibitors from Colombia, Ivory Coast and Estonia.
Japan Content Showcase2015 is scheduled to be held at the end of October 2015 in Tokyo.

Official Website:
27th Tokyo International Film Festival : http://2014.tiff-jp.net/en/
Japan Content Showase 2014 : http://jcs2014.com/en/