Japanese Cinema's Global Rise: Directors and Stars Discuss Future

Japanese cinema is experiencing a significant global surge, a topic explored at a recent Kering Women in Motion event at the Tokyo International Film Festival. Director Kore-eda Hirokazu noted the growing international acclaim for Japanese films, a sentiment not prevalent a decade ago. He credited emerging directors like Hamaguchi Ryusuke and Fukada Koji for this increased attention, emphasizing the need for older generations to sustain this momentum.

The event featured a panel including singer and actor Ninomiya Kazunari, producer Murata Chieko, and Academy Museum president Amy Homma. They discussed the present and future of Japanese cinema, focusing on diversity and inclusion. Homma stressed the importance of recognizing multiple truths and parallel national cinemas, asserting that Japanese film history is as significant as any other. Ninomiya shared his experience on international productions, noting a greater tendency for questioning and collaborative problem-solving compared to Japanese sets.

Producer Murata Chieko, whose recent work received international acclaim and an Oscar nomination, expressed her desire to create impactful films that resonate widely. She highlighted that tolerance for diverse cultural perspectives is essential for such artistic success. Homma further elaborated on the value of diversity within teams, advocating for the integration of various cultural backgrounds and unique qualities as strengths, promoting "plural thinking" over individualistic approaches to build stronger collaborative environments.