TOKYO – The 36th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) wrapped up in style on Wednesday, paying tribute to the best of global cinema. “Snow Leopard”, the final work by the late Tibetan director Pema Tseden, took center stage, clinching the coveted Grand Prix, as reported by Variety.
The movie, which premiered at this year’s Venice Film Festival and subsequently showcased at Toronto, tells the poignant story of a rift between a father and son over handling a menacing leopard terrorizing their village. Pema Tseden, the celebrated director, unfortunately, couldn’t witness the film’s grand moment, having passed away earlier in May.
The festival was not without its fair share of surprises and milestones. “Tatami,” a groundbreaking drama, was co-helmed by an Israeli, Guy Nattiv, and an Iranian, Zar Amir. This unique collaboration fetched them the Special Jury Prize. The film’s narrative centers around an Iranian judoka, portrayed by Arienne Mandi, facing a dilemma of contesting against an Israeli opponent. Zar Amir’s exceptional portrayal as the coach landed her the Best Actress Award at the Tokyo Festival.
Iranian cinema’s shining moment continued with Yasna Mirtahmasb bagging the Best Actor title for his role in “Roxana.” The film introduces us to an unemployed gambler who embarks on a journey filled with unforeseen twists.
It was also a memorable night for Chinese and Japanese cinema. Variety noted that the artistic contribution award was secured by “A Long Shot,” while “(Ab)normal Desire” from Japan enthralled audiences, winning the Audience Award. Notably, the film’s director, Kishi Yoshiyuki, was honored with the Best Director accolade.
Highlighting the fresh talents in Asian cinema, the Asian Future category honored “Maria” by Iranian filmmaker Mahdi Asghari Azghadi.
Zhang Yimou, the legendary filmmaker, was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement award. As a special treat for attendees, his latest work “Full River Red” graced the gala section.
ALSO READ: Day for Night Acquires Tibetan Filmmaker Late Pema Tseden’s “Snow Leopard”
This year’s festival also commemorated the 120th birth anniversary of Ozu Yasujiro, showcasing digitally restored versions of 16 of his films. The festival, according to Variety, even ventured into remakes of Ozu’s early silent masterpieces by contemporary directors, including Hideo Jojo.
After grappling with COVID-induced challenges in past editions, this year’s TIFF experienced a resurgence. From October 23 to November 1, the Tokyo’s Hibiya and Yurakucho districts buzzed with cinephiles. The attendance figures spoke volumes: 78,841 admissions for 219 films. This marked a significant increase from the previous year. International attendees saw a dramatic jump, moving from 104 in the last edition to a whopping 2,000 this year. The festival also highlighted that nearly a quarter of the screened films were helmed by women.
The Tokyo International Film Festival, beyond celebrating cinema, became a testament to the resilience of filmmakers and audiences alike in these testing times.
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