The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) has announced a sweeping structural evolution ahead of its 39th edition, introducing three major initiatives designed to elevate domestic talent, deepen cross-cultural ties, and champion gender equity within the cinematic landscape.

Nippon Cinema Now Enters Competition

Long celebrated as a staple showcase for contemporary Japanese cinema, the Nippon Cinema Now section is officially transitioning into a competitive category. Beginning this year, the section will award both a Best Film prize and a Special Jury Prize. Entries will be evaluated by a hybrid jury comprising prominent Japanese and international industry figures, aligning with TIFF’s broader objective to grant emerging domestic filmmakers heightened international visibility and critical momentum.

Reviving Regional Dialogues: Crosscut Asia+

In a strategic partnership with the Japan Foundation, the festival is launching Crosscut Asia+, a revamped initiative carrying forward the legacy of the popular *Crosscut Asia* showcase that ran from 2014 to 2019. Programmed jointly by Japanese and Southeast Asian curators, the inaugural lineup spotlights a powerful curated selection of contemporary and classic features from across Southeast Asia, fostering critical dialogue through specialized screenings and industry panel discussions.

Honoring Trailblazers: The Kashiko Kawakita Award

Deepening its commitment to representation, TIFF has partnered with the Kawakita Memorial Film Institute to establish the Kashiko Kawakita Award. Named after the legendary film curator and producer known globally as “Madame Kawakita”, the honor recognizes women who have made profound contributions to advancing film culture both in Japan and internationally. Selected by an all-female committee and presented within TIFF’s dedicated Women’s Empowerment framework, the inaugural honor marks an essential milestone for women’s leadership and legacy in global cinema.