KUALA LUMPUR, Sep 10 — The 21st edition of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2025 is back with a compelling lineup of Japanese cinematic masterpieces — emotive stories centred around a theme that resonates deeply with Malaysians, food.
Hosted by The Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur, the event was launched yesterday at GSC Mid Valley and attended by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Ambassador-designate of Japan to Malaysia Shikata Noriyuki, director of Northern Food Story Tetsuya Uesugi, and numerous film enthusiasts.
Since its inception in 2004, Noriyuki noted that the Japanese Film Festival has grown into one of Malaysia’s most eagerly awaited cultural events.
“There is always an excitement when the lights go down and the new story begins.
“Now in its 21st edition, JFF continues to bring outstanding works of Japanese cinema to Malaysian audiences — films that are not easily accessible through commercial distribution and that showcase the spirit, diversity, and creativity of Japanese filmmakers,” he stated.
He added that 2027 will mark the 70th anniversary of the enduring and dynamic relationship between Malaysia and Japan.
Fahmi also expressed his delight that the JFF continues to grow from strength to strength each year.
“We all know that film is a universal language — it tells stories and shares experiences, sometimes personal, sometimes about communities, and even about nations.
“They reflect our deepest fears, our highest aspirations.
“They speak of human flaws, human ingenuity, and so much more,” he said.
“This festival is more than a huge showcase, but a celebration of culture, community, and the power of storytelling on the big screen,” said GSC head of exhibition Pan Vui Shang, adding that the company believes that films serve as a powerful tool for cultural exchange and the JFF is prime example of connecting people across borders.
Four short films created by students — each centred around the theme of food — was screened at the launch, followed by the feature film Sunset Sunrise, directed by Yoshiyuki Kishi.
It tells the story of a young Tokyoite who relocates to a town on the Sanriku Coast in Miyagi Prefecture after remote work becomes the norm during the Covid-19 pandemic, unfolding into a journey of personal transformation, healing, and finding connection in an unexpected place.
It stars acclaimed Japanese actor Masaki Suda, well-known among fans of Japanese cinema for his prestige and multiple awards, including honours from the Japan Film Professional Awards and the Japan Academy Film Prize. The film highlights his versatile talent.
From his humble beginnings in the Tokusatsu series Kamen Rider W to starring in critically acclaimed films like Wilderness and Threads: Our Tapestry of Love, Suda has earned widespread praise for his ability to bring depth to every role he takes on.
Sunset Sunrise was the perfect film to kick off the festival, with many more captivating stories like this awaiting audiences throughout this year’s event.
The festival in Klang Valley runs from today until September 17, before moving to Penang, Johor Bahru, Sarawak, and Sabah.
For a complete listing of synopsis, showtimes, and additional details, explore the full programme here.
