For Indian travellers, this is a unique chance to experience storytelling from lens around the world
Japan is increasingly popular with Indian tourists who have emerged as the highest per capita spenders among tourists from all over the world. There are even more reasons to head to Japan as the forthcoming 37th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) from October 28 to November 6 has announced a mega lineup of global films and artists.
According to a press statement by the TIFF organisers, the event promises a vibrant lineup of over 100 films, celebrating diverse narratives and global artistry.
TIFF will be attended by a diverse group of international filmmakers, actors, producers, film festival programmers and film students in order to foster greater exchange between the Japanese and international film industries.
Notably, Tony Leung will serve as the Jury President of the international competition.
For Indian travellers, this is a unique chance to experience storytelling from lens around the world. Here is a look at some of the must-see films, organised by region:
Japan
Experience fresh perspectives on Japanese culture with Teki Cometh by Daihachi Yoshida (Photo: ©1998 Yasutaka Tsutsui / Shinchosha ©2023 TEKINOMIKATA)
Experience fresh perspectives on Japanese culture with Teki Cometh by Daihachi Yoshida, a monochrome exploration of stoic lives, and She Taught Me Serendipity by Akiko Ohku, a heartfelt look into youth and discovery.
Watch out for: Lust in the Rain, 11 Rebels, She Taught Me Serendipity, Teki Cometh, The Colours Within
United States
Black Ox is the story of a former hunter-gatherer (Photo: ©NIKO NIKO FILM / MOOLIN FILMS / CINEMA INUTILE / CINERIC CREATIVE / FOURIER FILMS)
Key films from US auteurs include several direct-from-Cannes selections, blending new voices with critical hits. These offerings in the World Focus section provide a unique perspective on American cinema.
Watch out for: Black Ox, Chain Reactions, Three Castrated Goats, The Vessel’s Isle
Italy
This is the story of a woman named Chiara (Photo: ©Les Films Pelleas)
In celebration of Marcello Mastroianni’s 100th anniversary, Italian cinema takes centre stage with classics and a special tribute section, sure to captivate fans of Italian artistry and storytelling.
Watch out for: Marcello Mio,
Brazil
Bury Your Dead is imaginatively surreal (Photo: © RuiPoças)
South American narratives are on full display, with Brazil’s entries showcasing the rich cultural and cinematic scene within this region. Look for these films in the expanded competition section, where local stories connect with global themes.
Watch out for: Bury Your Dead
France
In His Own Image is composed of mosaic-like episodes (Photo: ©Les Films Velvet – ARTE France Cinéma)
French films in the Gala section bring nuanced storytelling and innovative approaches, offering a blend of drama and comedy popular with global audiences.
Watch out for: In His Own Image, Marcello Mio, Emmanuelle, Lumière! The Adventure Continues
Colombia
Adios Al Amigo is a spaghetti western action film (Photo: TIFF)
Colombian narratives also feature prominently, reflecting the growing interest in Latin American storytelling. Colombian films explore diverse topics from social issues to historical narratives.
Watch out for: Adios Amigo
Apart from these regions, there are also films from Turkiye, Iran, Portugal, Malaysia, China, Kazakhstan and more among others.
For travellers who are cinephiles or just curious to see the world through a different lens, TIFF offers the perfect way to immerse themselves in international film culture, right in the heart of Tokyo.