By Sachiko Motomura
The 38th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), held from October 27 to November 5, 2025, once again celebrated the dazzling breadth of global cinema. A highlight of the festival was the prestigious Akira Kurosawa Award ceremony, a signature event honoring visionary filmmakers whose work reflects the spirit and influence of the legendary Japanese master Akira Kurosawa.
This year’s ceremony, held on November 3 at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo, recognized two internationally acclaimed directors: Lee Sang‑il of Japan and Chloé Zhao of the United States. The Kurosawa Award honors filmmakers who have made significant contributions to the art of cinema and whose creative vision promises to shape the future of the industry — echoing Kurosawa’s enduring legacy.
Lee Sang‑il has built a celebrated career in both domestic and international film circles, with works such as Hula Girls and his 2025 epic narrative Kokuho earning critical acclaim and widespread audience admiration in Japan. His three-hour kabuki drama Kokuho recently broke box-office records and has been selected as Japan’s contender for the Best International Feature Film category at next year’s Academy Awards.
Chloé Zhao, who won the Best Director Oscar for Nomadland in 2021, has had a profound global impact, establishing herself as one of today’s most influential auteurs. Her historical drama Hamnet, adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel, played a special role at TIFF as the festival’s closing film, delivering a resonant and emotional finale. The film stars Paul Mescal as Shakespeare and Jessie Buckley as his wife, Agnes.
The ceremony was a festive occasion, drawing filmmakers, actors, and industry leaders from around the world. A memorable highlight came when Japanese actor Ryō Yoshizawa, who stars in Kokuho, made a surprise appearance to congratulate Lee and Zhao, celebrating their artistry and the collaborative spirit of filmmaking.
