Hanoi welcomes the return of the Japanese Film Festival

From December 12, 2025, to January 25, 2026, audiences in Hanoi, Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang will be treated to a vibrant showcase of Japanese cinema.

Released in 1995, “Love Letter” was a major hit in Japanese cinema, earning recognition across Asia and being celebrated as one of the most romantic films of its time.

Organized by the Japan Foundation in Hanoi, Japanese Film Festival has become a flagship cultural event, bringing the magic of Japan's film industry to screens around the world. In Vietnam, it has thrilling movie lovers for more than 17 years, offering a captivating mix of timeless classics and fresh contemporary works that promise unforgettable cinematic experiences for all viewers.

This year, the festival presents 10 films spanning multiple genres, including romance, historical epics, animation, comedy, and suspenseful dramas. Among the highlights is the celebrated romance “Love Letter ” by director Iwai Shunji, returning to the screen on the 30th anniversary of its premiere. For the first time in Vietnam, the film will be presented in a crisp 4K remaster version, offering audiences an opportunity to experience the emotional depth that made it a lasting favorite in Japan. Other romance entries include “Petals and Memories” and “Sunset Sunrise,” featuring both legendary voices and fresh perspectives from contemporary Japanese cinema.

Fans of historical cinema can look forward to Akira Kurosawa's “Seven Samurai,” a landmark film that has influenced the influences of filmmakers worldwide and remains a cultural symbol of Japan's cinematic heritage. Animation enthusiasts will enjoy two distinct offerings: the cyberpunk classic “Ghost in the Shell” and the visually rich, emotionally nuanced “The Imaginary,” which captures the wonder of children's imagination.

As a standout work by director Hideki Takeuchi, “Cells At Work!” takes audiences on a vibrant, emotionally engaging journey in this candy-colored manga adaptation.

Comedy and drama are also well represented. “ Angry Squad: The Civil Servant and the Seven Swindlers” by Shinichiro Ueda and “Cells At Work!” by Hideki Takeuchi promises laughter and innovative storytelling, with Takeuchi attending the Hanoi screening to discuss his filmmaking process with audiences. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers can enjoy the fast-paced dramas “Six Lying Students” and “Showtime Seven,” both featuring tightly woven plots, suspenseful twists, and unexpected revelations.

In Hanoi, the festival runs from December 12 to 27 at the National Cinema Center (87 Lang Ha). In Hai Phong, screenings take place December 26 to 28 at Galaxy Hai Phong Cinema. Ho Chi Minh City hosts the festival January 9 to 24 at Galaxy Nguyen Du, while Da Nang screens films January 23 to 25 at Metiz Cinema on September 2nd Street.

With its mix of cinematic heritage, contemporary creativity and interactive opportunities for audiences, the 2025 Japanese Film Festival promises to be an unforgettable cultural experience for movie lovers across Vietnam.

By Jenna Duong

Source: http://sodulich.hanoi.gov.vn/hanoi-welcomes-the-return-of-the-japanese-film-festival.html