The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival commenced on 26 October at Hulic Hall. Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae identified content as a strategic priority within the nation's growth strategy.
Takaichi stated, "Film has the power to connect people’s hearts across countries and regions, and to deepen understanding of diverse cultures and values." To reach a target of selling JPY20 trillion ($133 billion) of Japanese content overseas by 2033, the government plans to provide production support and attract foreign location shoots.
The government requested approximately JPY250 billion ($1.67 billion) in its fiscal 2027 budget to fund growth investments in the content sector. Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Akazawa Ryosei noted that overseas sales of Japanese content have already reached around JPY6.1 trillion ($40.7 billion).
Akazawa Ryosei highlighted that the fifth "Kingdom" film was the first series in cinema history to have five consecutive installments gross over JPY5 billion ($33 million) at the box office. The film "Godzilla Minus Zero" is scheduled for a worldwide release next month across Japan, Asia, and North America.
Kramer said, "This is the first time the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has participated in an international film festival. To be part of such a major platform as the Tokyo International Film Festival makes this especially meaningful, and we feel honored to be here."
