The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) held its official lineup press conference for the 38th edition on October 1, 2025, at Base Q Hall in Tokyo Midtown Hibiya. The event drew strong media attendance as festival organizers, programmers, and directors presented the full list of competing films and outlined the special programs that will shape Japan’s most prestigious film celebration later this month.
Chaired by Ando Hiroyasu, the press conference began with remarks emphasizing TIFF’s enduring role as Japan’s cultural bridge to the global film community. “In an era of great transformation, cinema remains a universal language,” Ando stated, noting that the festival continues to expand its reach through collaborations with international partners and local creators. He reaffirmed TIFF’s mission to nurture talent, promote artistic freedom, and spotlight voices that challenge convention.
Programming Director Shozo Ichiyama then unveiled this year’s Competition lineup, describing it as a vibrant balance of international discovery and domestic innovation. Among the standout Japanese entries are Blonde, directed by Yuichiro Sakashita, and Echoes of Motherhood by Ryutaro Nakagawa—both tackling deeply human stories that reflect the evolving face of contemporary Japanese cinema. Ichiyama noted that the 2025 lineup underscores TIFF’s dedication to cinematic diversity and emotional storytelling.
Senior Programmer Kenji Ishizaka discussed the Asian Future section, which continues to champion emerging filmmakers from across the region. Meanwhile, Animation Section Programming Advisor Ryota Fujitsu highlighted the Animation program’s expanding scope, with selections that blur the line between mainstream appeal and experimental artistry. Fujitsu praised the medium’s ability to “connect across generations while pushing creative and technological boundaries.”
Andrijana Cvetkovikj, Senior Programmer for the Women’s Empowerment Section, introduced a slate of films that confront gender imbalance and celebrate female leadership in cinema. “This section is not just about representation—it’s about recognition,” she said, emphasizing TIFF’s role in fostering equity within the global film landscape.
Festival Navigator Kumi Takiuchi expressed her enthusiasm for guiding audiences through the upcoming edition, reflecting on her own journey as an actor and film advocate. The conference was moderated by Akihisa Souguchi and preceded by a private media briefing that offered industry insights into programming strategy and upcoming festival collaborations.
Beyond its film lineup, TIFF 2025 will host a variety of related events designed to strengthen Japan’s position in the global film ecosystem. The festival’s industry arm, TIFFCOM, will return as a key platform for co-production, distribution, and networking between international and Japanese producers. Organizers also highlighted new partnerships with streaming platforms and educational initiatives aimed at developing young filmmakers through workshops and panel sessions.
This year’s festival, set to unfold across Tokyo’s Hibiya, Ginza, and Marunouchi districts, is expected to welcome filmmakers, actors, and audiences from over 100 countries. With a focus on innovation, inclusion, and international collaboration, the 38th Tokyo International Film Festival promises to reaffirm Tokyo’s standing as one of the world’s most dynamic and forward-looking centers of cinematic culture.
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