KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 12: The 20th edition of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) officially launched on September 10 at the Aurum Theatre, The Exchange TRX here.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Golden Screen Cinemas, Koh Mei Lee said this year, the festival will showcase 13 films of multiple genres across multiple locations nationwide.
“There’s truly something for everyone,” she said in her keynote speech at the opening ceremony.
The films include the hotly-anticipated ‘GODZILLA Minus One’, indie films like ‘A Samurai in Time’, and anime classics like ‘AKIRA’, among others.
Koh also highlighted the festival’s continued success despite changing movie-going habits post-pandemic.
Meanwhile, the Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia, Takahashi Katsuhiko emphasized the festival’s role in strengthening cross-cultural understanding.
“The Japanese Film Festival offers Malaysians a unique window into the values, culture, and lifestyle of Japan.
“I hope this year’s edition continues to deepen that connection,” he said in his speech.
The festival also unveiled a new initiative by event host The Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur (JFKL) to nurture young filmmakers.
JFKL, in collaboration with Canon Malaysia, hosted a five-day Short Film Workshop for Teens, led by acclaimed Malaysian director Lim Kah Wai.
Sixteen Malaysian and Japanese teenagers worked together to create two short films, which premiered at the festival’s opening night and viewed by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
“The five-day Short Film Workshop for Teens exemplifies the festival’s commitment to nurturing future filmmakers.
“Programs like this are vital to expanding the local film industry and encouraging cross-cultural storytelling,” he said.
The Japanese Film Festival 2024 will run from September 12 to 18 in the Klang Valley before moving to Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu.
More information, including film synopses and showtimes, can be found at the official JFF website. – TVS
