#SHOWBIZ: Legends, heroines and kabuki: Japanese Film Festival returns to Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) is set to return for its 22nd edition in Malaysia, running from September 8th to October 18th across the Klang Valley and surrounding areas. Featuring 14 films from various genres, including anime, kabuki, suspense, comedy, drama, and 4K remasters, the event is organized by the Japan Foundation (JF).

JFF has become a highly anticipated international film event, drawing over 200,000 attendees, showcasing 215 films, and presenting 128 directors since its inception two decades ago. The festival has also hosted 11 fringe events in 11 venues across five states and regions. The opening film, Tokyo Taxi, is a new work by acclaimed director Yamada Yoji, who has been actively shaping Japanese cinema for over six decades.

With his 95th birthday this year, Yamada continues to be a significant influence in the industry. The lineup will include films celebrating "girl power," such as Fujiko, Purehearted, and Hula Girls (4K Remastered). Classic titles like Throne of Blood by Akira Kurosawa and a special screening of Tora-San, Our Lovable Tramp, will also be part of the event.

JFF will be held at GSC Mid Valley, GSC 1 Utama, and GSC MyTown in Kuala Lumpur, GSC Gurney Plaza in Penang, GSC Paradigm Mall in Johor Bahru, GSC CityOne Megamall in Kuching, and GSC Suria Sabah in Kota Kinabalu. Tickets are priced at RM10 and can be purchased at participating cinemas. JFF's director, Tsukamoto Norihisa, expressed gratitude for the festival's continued success, noting that next year's event will mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Malaysia, making JFF an ideal pre-event celebration.