The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) is planning to hold the 38th edition from October 27 through November 5.
The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) is now accepting submissions from April 1 through July 7, 2025, via its official website. As one of Asia’s leading film festivals, TIFF showcases a diverse selection of premieres, featuring works by both established filmmakers and emerging directors from around the world.
The festival’s main Competition continues to welcome submissions of films that have not yet been released in Japan (Japan Premiere), including documentary and animation features. As in previous years, the Asian Future section will spotlight films by emerging Asian directors— including those from Japan and the Middle East—who have directed no more than three feature-length films.
With its mission, “To amplify the possibilities of cinema from Tokyo and contribute to interactions with a diverse world,” the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) welcomes film submissions from around the globe. Committed to creating an engaging and meaningful experience for both audiences and filmmakers, TIFF aims to celebrate cinematic diversity and global storytelling. Details on additional festival sections will be announced at a later date. Comprehensive information about film submissions is attached and available on the TIFF official website.
Submission Outline for the 38th TIFF
COMPETITIVE SECTIONS AND AWARDS
1 – International Competition Section
The main Competition section is the core of the festival and aims to support promising filmmakers who will play leading roles in the industry, as well as contribute to the enrichment of cinematic artistry and international cultural exchange. Films from around the globe that have not yet been released in Japan compete for the top prize, the Tokyo Grand Prix. Features completed after January 1, 2025 are eligible for selection by TIFF, and undergo a rigid review process. During the event, invited guests who are involved in the films will appear onstage for Q&A sessions after the screenings to enhance interactions with the audience. Last year, 2,023 films were submitted from 110 countries and regions.
Awards
– Tokyo Grand Prix
– Special Jury Prize
– Award for Best Director
– Award for Best Actress
– Award for Best Actor
– Award for Best Artistic Contribution
– Audience Award
2 – Asian Future Section
A competitive section for Asian films, including Japan and the Middle East, this introduces the first, second or third features of Asia’s up-and-coming directors.
Award
– Asian Future Best Film Award
Please see the regulations HERE. For further inquiries about submissions, please contact [email protected]
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