Festival director Hisamatsu Takeo outlines a bold vision to turn Tokyo into a global networking hub.
At a time when Japanese cinema is enjoying renewed global visibility and the country’s creative industries are receiving unprecedented institutional support, the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) finds itself at an important juncture. Returning as Festival Director after previously leading the festival from 2017 to 2021, Hisamatsu Takeo brings with him not only experience, but also a renewed ambition to position Tokyo as a dynamic meeting point for filmmakers, producers, critics and audiences from across the world.
In this exclusive interview with The Sunday Guardian, Hisamatsu Takeo discusses his return to TIFF, the changing landscape of Japanese cinema, the festival’s international ambitions, its Women’s Empowerment initiative, and the role Tokyo can play as a bridge between Asian and global filmmakers. He also speaks warmly about Indian cinema, describing India as one of the world’s most vibrant film cultures and calling for greater creative collaboration between the two countries.
Q. You are returning to the Tokyo International Film Festival after having served as Festival Director from 2017 to 2021. How does it feel to come back to the festival at this particular moment, and what do you see as the most significant changes in TIFF since your previous tenure?
A. I am extremely delighted and honored to come back to the Tokyo International Film Festival as the Festival Director.
I love Tokyo—a city that constantly evolves while preserving its traditions, and where diverse cultures and values intermingle. It is a profound honor for me to host a film festival, which I am deeply passionate about, right here in this remarkable city.
The most significant change since my previous tenure is the heightened global presence of Japanese cinema, clearly demonstrated by Japan being selected as the Country of Honour at this year’s Cannes Marché du Film. Furthermore, the strong support from the Japanese government marks a vital shift. The government is actively backing the content industry, positioning it as a core industry alongside automobiles and steel.
Q. In my previous conversation with Chairman Ando Hiroyasu, he spoke extensively about strengthening international exchange and transforming TIFF into a vibrant meeting point for filmmakers, producers, critics and industry professionals. How do you intend to carry this vision forward?
A. To me, the real magic of a film festival is not just sharing the joy of cinema, but bringing filmmakers together to exchange views, inspire each other, and collaborate. Moving forward, I hope to play an even active role in fostering those connections.
Q. TIFF has often been described as one of Asia’s most important international film festivals. What do you believe should distinguish Tokyo from other major festivals in Asia and across the world?
A. Japan boasts a rich and diverse content culture—from anime and gaming to manga and music. Reflecting these unique strengths of Japan and the energy of Tokyo, we would like to build a festival that showcases the full, vibrant spectrum of cinema—from artistic masterpieces to mainstream entertainment.
Furthermore, Tokyo offers exceptional hospitality, safety, and a welcoming environment where creators from around the globe can connect with peace of mind. We aim to serve as a vital hub where filmmakers from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond come together, as well as a launching pad for them to reach the world stage.
Q. When you accepted this new responsibility, what was the first thought that came to your mind? Was there a particular aspect of TIFF that you felt especially eager to revisit or develop further?
A. We want to build a festival with a rich and diverse lineup so that everyone—not just avid cinephiles—can find something they love. I believe that is the true magic of cinema itself.
Furthermore, beyond our screening program, we aim to continually elevate the festival’s overall value through providing networking opportunities, co-production support, nurturing talents, and the discovery of emerging creators.
Q. The Women’s Empowerment Section became one of the defining initiatives of the recent editions of TIFF. How do you assess its impact so far, and what future do you envision for this important platform?
A. To build a truly sustainable film industry, we need an environment where diverse perspectives are genuinely valued. The Women’s Empowerment section holds great significance—not only in supporting female filmmakers, but also as a vital initiative that elevates the creative potential of the industry as a whole.
Going forward, we aim to further evolve this initiative by providing opportunities for Japanese and international creators to share their experiences, forge new networks, and pave the way for future co-productions.
Q. Finally, what message would you like to send to filmmakers, producers and cinephiles in India who have followed TIFF and see Japan as an important creative partner?
A. Indian cinema is currently one of the most vibrant and energetic film cultures in the world. I am personally deeply inspired by its creativity, rich diversity, and incredible global impact.
Both Japan and India possess profound cultural heritage and extraordinary creative talent, and I firmly believe there is still immense untapped potential in our collaboration.
I warmly invite you to join us at the Tokyo International Film Festival. We hope you will utilize Tokyo not only as a stage to showcase your films, but also as a space to connect with new partners and spark new cinematic endeavors.
I truly look forward to welcoming you all to Tokyo.
*Murtaza Ali Khan is an award-winning cultural critic, jour-nalist, and academic. A jury member for the 69th & 70th National Film Awards, he has covered entertainment for The Hindu, The Sunday Guardian, and The Quint since 2008, with over 2,000 TV appearances as a media expert. He is also a film festival curator, translator of Hindujas and Bollywood, and a NETqualified journalism educator.
