The FIAPF (International Federation of Film Producers Association)-accredited Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) promotes efforts to discover and support young Asian creators. The Japan Foundation Asia Center carries out cultural exchange programs to foster a sense of kinship and coexistence among Asian neighbors. Since 2014, these two institutions have been conducting joint cultural exchange initiatives through film with a focus on Asia. This year, the enormous challenges thrust upon the global film industry have resulted in unprecedented changes to the way in which we make and view films. In response, TIFF and the Japan Foundation Asia Center have created “Asia Lounge” a series of talks to encourage dialogue and more in-depth understanding among filmmakers throughout Asia as well as to examine new possibilities for visual culture going forward.
 
“Asia Lounge” Conversation Series
Co-presented by the Japan Foundation Asia Center & Tokyo International Film Festival
For eight days from November 1 to November 8, this program will host daily online conversations between leading film directors from various Asian countries and regions and their Japanese peers. The new initiative was proposed by world-renowned director Hirokazu Kore-eda, who worked with the members of the committee to organize the event. Although originally conceived as a physical lounge where filmmakers from around the world would enjoy free-form conversation and exchange, this year’s event will be held online, inviting a variety of high-profile guest speakers to discuss a myriad of topics. (Interpretation will be provided.) These filmmakers will share the directions they will take as a result of the limits imposed on international travel by the current circumstances, and their thoughts about the drastic changes the coronavirus pandemic has made to film production, film exhibition, discussion, and collaboration. Talks will be streamed live, and viewers from all over the world can ask questions.
→”Asia Lounge” Conversation Series lineup

 
Diverse Cinema Capturing the Many Faces of Asia
-The Japan Foundation and TIFF will showcase the rich and diverse culture of Asian cinema in the Tokyo Premiere 2020 and World Focus sections.
-As a part of the Japan Foundation Asia Center’s Southeast Asian film restoration efforts, the 4K digitally restored version of Yasmin Ahmad’s masterpiece Mukhsin (Malaysia, 2006) will be presented for the first time in the world.
-“CROSSCUT ASIA SPECIAL,” a booklet introducing the rich culture of Asian cinema will be distributed for free at the TIFF venue.
 
The Japan Foundation Asia Center → jfac.jp