The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) has revealed its decision to bestow the prestigious 2024 Kurosawa Akira Award upon two talented filmmakers: Japan’s Sho Miyake and Taiwan’s Fu Tien-yu. This accolade is named after the legendary director Akira Kurosawa, recognizing his profound impact and influence on the world of cinema. The award serves not only as a tribute to these directors but also highlights the enduring legacy of Kurosawa’s artistry in shaping modern filmmaking.
The selection committee, which included distinguished figures such as Yoji Yamada, Yoko Narahashi, Saburo Kawamoto, and TIFF’s programming director Shozo Ichiyama, played a critical role in identifying the recipients. The decision-making process reflects a careful consideration of the nominees’ contributions to cinema. Last year’s winners included renowned filmmakers Gu Xiaogang from China and Mouly Surya from Indonesia, showcasing the festival’s commitment to diverse storytelling from various cultures. Such a recognition reinforces the importance of supporting global narratives in today’s film industry.
Sho Miyake, known for his unique storytelling style, has made significant strides in the filmmaking arena. His filmography includes notable titles such as “Playback” (2012), “And Your Bird Can Sing” (2018), and the critically acclaimed “Small, Slow But Steady” (2022). The latter two films were showcased at the Berlin International Film Festival, cementing his status as a filmmaker of international repute. His upcoming work, “All The Long Nights” (2024), is highly anticipated and exemplifies his ability to blend poignant narratives with innovative cinematography.
On the other hand, Fu Tien-yu brings a unique perspective as a novelist turned filmmaker. Her directorial resume began with “Somewhere I Have Never Travelled,” followed by “My Egg Boy” in 2016. Fu’s most recent endeavor, “Day Off,” took three years to develop, showcasing her dedication to crafting meaningful cinema. Her transition from literature to film adds a textured understanding to her characters and storytelling, resonating deeply with audiences.
In tribute to Akira Kurosawa, the festival is set to screen an array of films that influenced him and shaped cinematic storytelling. Classics like Charlie Chaplin’s “The Great Dictator,” Jean-Luc Godard’s “Breathless,” and Kurosawa’s own “Seven Samurai” will be featured, serving as educational touchstones for both industry professionals and film enthusiasts. This retrospective not only celebrates Kurosawa’s legacy but also emphasizes the critical dialogue between historical and contemporary films.
In conjunction with the award presentations, TIFF is also engaging in important conversations surrounding social issues through the TIFF Ethical Film Award. This initiative, chaired by acclaimed Japanese actor and director Takumi Saitoh this year, aims to elevate understanding of diversity and social challenges through film. The prior year saw “20000 Species Of Bees” by Estibaliz Urresola Solaguren win the award, indicating the festival’s commitment to fostering films that reflect societal realities.
Another cornerstone of this year’s TIFF is the International Symposium on Film Education, extending from the TIFF Teens Film Workshop last year. With panellists from diverse regions including Palestine, Chile, and Spain, the dialogue will revolve around how film education addresses pressing social issues like war and poverty. Scheduled for November 2 at the National Film Archive of Japan, this symposium underscores TIFF’s dedication to using cinema as a catalyst for change and a tool for fostering dialogue in society.
The 2024 Kurosawa Akira Award not only recognizes outstanding talent but also emphasizes the power of film as a medium for social reflection and change.