The Tokyo Gap-Financing Market has announced its sixth edition lineup, showcasing 23 feature film projects with a notable presence from Southeast Asia and Italian collaborations. This lineup highlights the market’s emphasis on projects that have already secured substantial funding and feature Asian influences, providing a unique spotlight for diverse global cinema.
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Southeast Asian Projects Take Center Stage
At the forefront of the Southeast Asian offerings is Vietnamese director Diep Nguyen Hoang with the project “1982,” following her acclaimed 2014 debut, “Flapping in the Middle of Nowhere.” Another standout is Rafael Manuel from the Philippines, who brings “Filipinana” after earning the Silver Bear Jury Prize in Berlin. The Philippines is further represented by Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan’s “Hum,” co-produced by Alemberg Ang, known for entries at Cannes like “Renoir” and “Plan75.”
A Milestone in Animation
This year marks the market’s first Japanese feature-length animation selection with “Freedom in the Sky,” a collaboration involving Genco Inc. and director Ayumu Watanabe, recognized for their contributions to popular series and films. The animation anthology also features contributions such as “Anito” by Philippine director John Aurthur Mercader and Indonesia’s “Garuda: Dare to Dream” by Ronny Gani, providing vibrant tales from Asia.
International Collaborations and Italian Connections
The Japan-Italy Film Co-production Agreement, which commenced last year, has enabled the development of three specific projects, bolstered by support from Italy’s Directorate General for Cinema and Audiovisual. Noteworthy include Jang Kun-jae’s “Staring at Your Back,” blending Japanese and Korean creative elements, and Pedro Collantes’ “Konbini,” set in Tokyo, reflecting a synergy between Spanish and Japanese storytelling.
Global Reach and Diverse Themes
The selection spans 26 countries, presenting various themes and stories. Examples include Natsuki Seta’s “Polaris,” a Japan-Taiwan venture, and Melisa Önel’s “Pivot,” an Asia-Europe co-production. The supernatural thriller “The Serpent” by Diogo Hayashi exemplifies Brazilian-Japanese collaboration, demonstrating the market’s global reach and innovative storytelling diversity.
The Tokyo Gap-Financing Market continues to serve as a crucial hub for developing international film projects and fostering industry connections. From October 29 to 31, at Tokyo Portcity Takeshiba, TIFFCOM will facilitate one-on-one meetings to aid in project development and support innovative cinematic ventures.