Known for its captivating blend of timeless tradition and bold, contemporary innovation, Japanese cinema continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its unique storytelling. This year, the Japanese Film Festival, presented by The Japan Foundation, Sydney, celebrates its 29th year with a tour across Australia, bringing a curated line-up of the very best in film.

From the kabuki theatre epic Kokuhō- Japan’s official Oscar submission and the festival’s record-breaking opening film- to a special trio of new works from internationally acclaimed auteur Kiyoshi Kurosawa, the program speaks to the incredible breadth of Japanese cinema. With a lineup that includes intimate literary adaptations, gripping contemporary thrillers, and beloved manga and anime brought to life, the festival is a must-see for film lovers. We sat down with Festival Programmer Manisay Oudomvilay to get the key takeaways on what to expect from the 2025 Japanese Film Festival.

The Japanese Film Festival arrives in Sydney from the 12th of November and remains until the 1st of December.

Find ticket information and more, here!