The Tokyo International Film Festival held its opening ceremony earlier this week at Hulic Hall, where approximately 1,892 film submissions from 112 countries and regions were received for the event. The festival premiered “Sukiyaki,” a biographical film chronicling how the titular song was composed and became a Billboard chart success in 1963. Director Zeze Takahisa led the opening proceedings alongside cast members Okada Junichi, Matsuzaka Tori, and Seino Nana.
Zeze emphasized that the film explores post-war Japan during its period of economic expansion, with the narrative centered on the characters’ reflections regarding peace and the war’s aftermath. Matsuzaka noted that production began in April of the previous year and required over a year to complete. Seino highlighted the emotional intensity of the performances witnessed during filming, describing the collaborative energy among cast members.
Japan’s government used the festival opening to advance its strategic objectives for the content sector. Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae delivered a video message indicating that her cabinet has prioritized film and related media as part of the nation’s growth strategy, with plans to increase public-private investment. The government aims to generate ¥20 trillion ($133 billion) in overseas content sales by 2033. Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Akazawa Ryosei noted that overseas content sales have already reached approximately ¥6.1 trillion ($40.7 billion) and that ¥250 billion ($1.67 billion) has been requested across ministries in the fiscal 2027 budget to support industry growth.
Akazawa highlighted recent commercial successes including the “Kingdom” film franchise, whose fifth installment became the first series to achieve five consecutive films exceeding ¥5 billion ($33 million) at the box office. The festival’s centerpiece selection, “Godzilla Minus Zero,” is scheduled to open worldwide next month across multiple regions. Festival director Hisamatsu Takeo presided over the proceedings despite rain, emphasizing cinema’s diversity and global reach. The opening also featured remarks from Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences leadership, marking the organization’s inaugural participation in an international film festival.
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