KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 26 — Japanese cinema takes centre stage once again as the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) returns to Malaysia for its 22nd edition, bringing together 15 films that span anime, kabuki-related films, suspense, comedy, and heartfelt dramas.

Running from September 8 to October 18, this year’s festival offers more than just a selection of films, with a programme that brings together legendary filmmakers and contemporary stories. 

Taking centre stage this year is a special tribute to legendary filmmaker Yamada Yoji, celebrating 65 remarkable years of his contribution to cinema 

Turning 95 this year, Yamada has spent more than six decades observing ordinary lives and transforming them into deeply human stories.

Four of his films will be featured at this year’s festival from Tokyo Taxi, A Distant Cry from Spring, Tora-san’s Many Splintered Love and Renjishi (The Father and Son Shishi Lions).

The festival also turns the spotlight towards women with its Girl Power selection, bringing three stories inspired by real-life events to the screen.

Among them is Fujiko, alongside Purehearted and the beloved 2006 film Hula Girls, which returns in a 4K remastered version.

Another highlight is Akira Kurosawa’s classic Throne of Blood (1957), which will be screened as part of this year’s programme.

Kurosawa’s striking adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth remains one of the most acclaimed Japanese interpretations of the classic tragedy.

With its haunting atmosphere, stark imagery and unforgettable performance by Toshiro Mifune, Throne of Blood has continued to influence filmmakers and audiences decades after its release.

The festival’s wider programme includes titles from Bring Him Down to a Portable Size, One Last Love Letter, Samurai Vengeance, Suzuki=Bakudan, You Are the Film and the anime Chimney Town: Frozen in Time.

Kokuho returns for special screening

JFF 2026 will hold its opening ceremony on September 8.

Adding to the excitement, the acclaimed Kokuho will return with a special one-day screening the following day, September 9, at GSC Mid Valley and GSC MyTOWN. 

It will give Malaysian audiences another opportunity to experience the celebrated film following the conclusion of its nationwide theatrical run in July.

As in previous years, the JFF will then continue its five-state tradition, bringing a selection of Japanese films to audiences across the country.

It will begin in Klang Valley from September 10 to 16 at GSC Mid Valley, GSC MyTOWN and GSC 1 Utama.

It will then travel to Penang from September 17 to 20 at GSC Gurney Plaza, followed by Johor Bahru from September 24 to 27 at GSC Paradigm Mall JB.

The festival will continue in Kuching from October 8 to 11 at GSC CityONE Megamall, before making its final stop in Kota Kinabalu from October 15 to 18 at GSC Suria Sabah.

Two decades, 200,000 audiences and counting 

Organised by The Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur (JFKL), JFF in Malaysia has grown into one of the most anticipated international film events.

Over the last two decades, the festival has attracted more than 200,000 festival-goers, screened 215 films, presented over 128 directors and film representatives to Malaysian audiences, and hosted 11 fringe events across 11 venues in five states and regions.

The festival continues to garner strong support from audiences, welcoming more than 10,000 attendees in 2025 alone. 

Director of JFKL, Tsukamoto Norihisa, said he hoped this year’s festival would continue to surprise long-time fans whose support has helped keep the festival alive over the years.

“I hope this year JFF can continue to surprise long-time fans whose support has driven us every year to bring this festival to life. 

“Next year 2027 we will celebrate 70th anniversary of diplomatic relationship with Japan and Malaysia and I also hope JFF this year can be a pre event for the upcoming memorable year,” he said.

Beyond the screenings, the JFF Filmmaking Workshop returns this year, providing aspiring filmmakers with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of cinema, connect with industry professionals and explore the creative process behind filmmaking.

Tickets for JFF 2026 are priced at RM10, with sales opening one week before screenings begin in each region.

For more information, can visit the Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur’s social media pages.