‘Shogun’ Producer And ‘Tokyo Vice’ Production Consultant Highlight Japan’s Film Infrastructure Challenge

Tetsu Fujimura's keynote at TIFFCOM highlighted the rapid global rise of Japanese intellectual property, suggesting it is becoming a key industry for Japan, comparable to its automotive sector. This shift is significant as it showcases Japan's cultural influence and potential for international collaborations, making it an exciting time for creators and businesses alike.

Thailand is emerging as a leading film production hub in Asia, thanks to a 30% film incentive and strong infrastructure, as highlighted by Apinat Obb Siricharoenjit at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This transformation not only attracts filmmakers but also boosts the local economy and showcases Thailand's potential on the global stage.

The team behind the film 'Morte Cucina' highlighted significant challenges in cash flow financing for Asian co-productions during a seminar at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This issue is crucial as it affects the ability of filmmakers across multiple countries, including Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan, to collaborate effectively and bring diverse stories to the screen. Addressing these financial hurdles is essential for the growth and sustainability of the Asian film industry.

Paul Schrader is in Tokyo for the screening of his 1985 film 'Mishima: A Life In Four Chapters' at the Tokyo International Film Festival, where he expressed his fondness for Japan, calling it his 'second home.' Schrader believes that audiences will be willing to pay to see films featuring AI actors, suggesting a blend of classic performances from stars like Brando and Costner to create engaging cinema. This perspective highlights the evolving landscape of filmmaking and the potential for AI to reshape how stories are told.

The future of the Emmy-winning series 'Shogun' looks promising as producer Miyagawa Eriko expressed interest in filming upcoming seasons in Japan. During a panel at the Tokyo International Film Festival, she highlighted the need for improvements in infrastructure and incentives to make this a reality. This move could not only enhance the authenticity of the series but also boost Japan's film industry, making it a significant development for both fans and local filmmakers.

At the Tokyo International Film Festival, Schuyler Weiss, the producer of 'Elvis,' highlighted Australia's potential as a global production hub. His insights, drawn from two decades of collaboration with renowned director Baz Luhrmann, underscore the strength of Australia's film ecosystem. This is significant as it positions Australia as an attractive destination for filmmakers, potentially boosting the local economy and enhancing its global cinematic presence.

Exciting news for fans of Hong Kong cinema! The sequel to the popular film 'Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In' is set to begin shooting in March 2026, as announced by director Soi Cheang at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This development not only promises to continue the thrilling story that captivated audiences but also highlights the ongoing vitality of the Hong Kong film industry. With a prequel also in the works, this franchise is gearing up for a significant comeback, making it a noteworthy event for both fans and filmmakers alike.

The Tokyo International Film Festival's market arm, TIFFCOM, is experiencing remarkable growth, with CEO Shiina Yasushi highlighting a shift towards becoming a co-production and financing hub. This transformation is significant as it reflects the increasing international interest in Japanese cinema and the potential for collaborative projects. With 322 exhibiting companies expected in 2025, up from 283, TIFFCOM is positioning itself as a key player in the global film industry, fostering partnerships and innovation.

The trailer for 'Scream 7' has just been released, and fans are thrilled to see Neve Campbell reprising her iconic role as Sidney Prescott. Set to hit theaters on February 27, 2026, this latest installment promises to bring back the suspense and thrills that the franchise is known for, with a new Ghostface killer lurking in a quiet town. This return not only excites longtime fans but also introduces a new generation to the beloved horror series.

Mubi has made an exciting move by acquiring Rodrigo Sorogoyen's romantic drama series 'The New Years' for distribution across multiple regions including North America and Latin America. This 10-part series is set to premiere on December 3 with a double episode, promising to bring fresh storytelling to audiences. This acquisition not only expands Mubi's diverse content library but also highlights the growing interest in international cinema, making it a significant development in the streaming landscape.

Alyla Browne, known for her role as young Furiosa in 'Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,' is set to star in the Australian psychological horror film 'From Below.' Cornerstone is taking charge of worldwide sales for the film at the American Film Market, highlighting the growing interest in Browne's career and the horror genre. This project not only showcases Browne's talent but also emphasizes the increasing prominence of Australian cinema on the global stage.

Amy Acker is set to star in the upcoming holiday thriller 'Invader,' where a Christmas family gathering turns into a terrifying fight for survival against her vengeful ex-husband. This film, which is being represented for worldwide sales by Alliance Media Partners, promises to blend festive cheer with suspense, making it a unique addition to the holiday movie lineup. It's exciting to see how this film will captivate audiences looking for a thrilling twist on traditional holiday themes.

Japan Society is set to host a remarkable event featuring Shinichiro Watanabe, the visionary behind iconic anime like 'Cowboy Bebop,' and Justin Leach, producer of 'Star Wars: Visions.' This Foreign Exchange series, running from November 17-22 in New York City, promises to be a vibrant platform for cross-cultural conversations about anime and its impact. It's an exciting opportunity for fans and newcomers alike to engage with the creators who have shaped the genre, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange in the arts.

Matthew Modine is set to guest star in an upcoming episode of 'The Simpsons,' where he humorously channels his character from 'Stranger Things' to diagnose Bart as a 'psycho.' This crossover is exciting for fans as it brings together beloved characters from different iconic series, showcasing Modine's versatility as an actor. His appearance not only adds a fresh twist to the long-running animated show but also highlights the cultural impact of both 'The Simpsons' and 'Stranger Things,' making it a must-watch for viewers.