The 37th Tokyo International Film Festival has opened.
There was a great opening ceremony. The opening film was “The Eleven Thieves,” and the performers took to the stage in spectacular fashion, and then film festival performers appeared one after the other on the red carpet.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s Video Message
Hello everyone. This is Shigeru Ishiba, Prime Minister.
The Tokyo International Film Festival is a film festival that represents Asia and attracts international attention.
I would like to sincerely congratulate everyone who has contributed to the development of the films for their ingenuity and efforts, and the 37th Tokyo International Film Festival will take place today.
The Japanese materials industry has an export scale comparable to that of the steel and semiconductor industries, and the source of its competitiveness lies not only in companies but also in individual creators such as film directors and production staff. In order to further develop Japan’s content industry, the government will work to create an environment that supports the development of the next generation of creators and improves transactions.
In August of this year, the Japan-Italy and Japan-Italy film co-production agreements came into force, and we have finally started accepting applications for co-productions. I heard that there will be special features about the famous Italian actor Marcello Mastroianni, who is celebrating his 100th birthday this year, and the works of famous directors. We sincerely hope that the appeal of the masterpieces of the past will be reaffirmed, and that this event will be a place for everyone to meet and interact while producing new works.
Finally, I would like to conclude my comments by praying for the success of this film festival and the further development of the Japanese film industry. thank you very much. Thank you for your support.
37 Tokyo International Film Festival Guide: Commentary Rinko Kikuchi
This was the first time I participated in the Tokyo International Film Festival, and I was able to stand here because of such an alien work. I want to touch many people through movies.
Q. What was it like walking a red carpet that took advantage of the tree lined streets of Tokyo?
Walking around it made me realize that there was a red carpet like this in the center of such a unique city called Tokyo, and I also realized that there were so many people there, watching the film and having fun that I was in there to feel it on my skin.
Q. Mr. Kikuchi, what is the fun of film festivals?
I believe that films are a way to connect with people from different countries as a common language. I think it’s really great to be able to have conversations through movies.
Q. Mr. Kikuchi has also been active in overseas productions, but what is your favorite thing about movies, whether Japanese or Western?
I came across films that surprised me and changed my life. The characters in the film are hurt, cry, and try to live with hope, and by being hurt and happy together, by the time you leave the movie theater, you feel completely refreshed and ready for the next day trying to utmost. I will work hard every day in the hope that I will be with the movies that I have watched since I was a child, I can also enter the world of movies and be able to put different things in inform many people through movies.
Competition Section Jury Chairman: Tony Leung
I am honored to be part of the judging team this year. We hope our review will satisfy you. It’s not easy, but I want to do my best. I hope you all have a great night.
“Eleven Bandits”: Comment from director Kazuya Shiraishi
Thank you for choosing “The Eleven Bandits” as your debut work. Filming took place from August to November last year, with everyone covered in mud, and I was filled with pride when I saw the cast members here. In the movie, she looks uncool and dirty, but here she is so clean and I am overwhelmed with emotions. Please I am looking forward to the movie.
“Eleven Bandits”: Commentary by Takayuki Yamada
Although it is set in the past, I believe that the actions and thoughts of people in the past are the same in the present. Depending on your perspective, you might think they are evil, but in the end, they are people who want to make things a little better for themselves and the people around them. I think if you apply that to yourself and those around you and watch it again, it will resonate with you.
Opening statement by Chairman Hiroyasu Ando
It had been raining since the morning, and we were especially worried about the red carpet, but the sky was on our side and the rain stopped in the afternoon, allowing us to do the red carpet in a very glamorous way. This year, the number of people visiting Rhett Carpet increased by about 20%, and the number of customers who enjoyed it was more than double last year. Also, more people came to the opening ceremony than last year. I am very happy. At this year’s film festival, we hope to bring together a wide variety of films to show to everyone, and we hope to increase the number of events, making it more enjoyable for everyone. We appreciate your continued support of the Tokyo International Film Festival and hope it will be a successful festival. I would like to announce the opening of the 37th Tokyo International Film Festival.
overview
Name: 37th Tokyo International Film Festival
Venue: October 28, 2024 (Monday) to November 6, 2024 (Wednesday) Hibiya, Yurakucho, Marunouchi, Ginza area