Kore-eda Hirokazu Hails Japanese Cinema’s Global Moment as Ninomiya Kazunari, Academy’s Amy Homma and ‘Kokuho’ Producer Murata Chieko Take Stage at Kering Women in Motion Tokyo Event
Kore-eda Hirokazu said Japanese films are attracting more international attention than they did a decade ago, crediting younger directors and their growing recognition overseas. At a Tokyo film event, speakers discussed how to pass that momentum on and make the industry more inclusive.
Actor Ninomiya Kazunari said international productions can encourage more questions and collaborative problem-solving on set. Producer Murata Chieko, whose film “Kokuho” received acclaim abroad and an Oscar nomination for makeup and hairstyling, stressed the value of welcoming different cultural perspectives. Academy Museum director Amy Homma argued that varied backgrounds and ways of thinking strengthen creative teams.
In short
- Japanese cinema is gaining international attention.
- Speakers urged support for the next generation.
- Panelists said diverse perspectives strengthen film-making.
Explained simply
Japanese cinema has a long history, but its films have often received less attention overseas than those from some other major film industries. In recent years, younger Japanese directors and films such as Kokuho have gained wider international recognition.
The discussion brings together people from different parts of filmmaking and film culture: director Kore-eda Hirokazu, actor Ninomiya Kazunari, producer Murata Chieko and Academy Museum director Amy Homma. Their work spans making films, performing in them and presenting cinema to audiences.
The wider issue is how the industry can sustain international interest and make filmmaking more inclusive. Different cultural experiences and ways of working can shape collaboration on set and the stories that reach audiences.