Tokyo Film Festival Director Takeo Hisamatsu Wants More Money, More Parties and a Bigger Global Profile for Japanese Cinema
Tokyo International Film Festival director Takeo Hisamatsu wants to expand the event’s role as a global platform for Japanese cinema, at a time when the country’s films and animation are attracting greater international attention. He says the festival needs more funding, industry partnerships and social events to build on that momentum and strengthen its international profile.
Hisamatsu returned to the post after former chairman Hiroyasu Ando stepped down; he previously directed the festival from 2017 to 2021. This year, Tokyo added prizes for its Nippon Cinema Now showcase and launched a work-in-progress initiative linking Japanese productions with international industry figures. Japan’s box office reached a record ¥274.5 billion ($1.8 billion) in 2025, and the festival is seeking public support and sponsors ahead of its 40th edition next year.
In short
- Hisamatsu wants more funding to grow Tokyo’s film festival.
- New initiatives aim to connect Japanese films with global industry figures.
- Japan’s box office hit ¥274.5 billion in 2025.
Explained simply
The Tokyo International Film Festival is Japan’s main film festival, bringing filmmakers and industry figures together to show films and build professional links. Takeo Hisamatsu, who has led the festival before, has returned as director after Hiroyasu Ando stepped down as chairman.
Japanese films and animation have been drawing more attention overseas, while Japan’s box office reached a record level in 2025. The festival has added awards and a programme connecting Japanese productions with international industry figures, and is seeking more public funding and sponsors as it prepares for its 40th edition.
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