For over two decades, the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) has been bringing the best of Japanese cinema to Malaysian audiences.
It is an annual affair that movie fans look forward to, offering audiences a window into Japan through its films.
This year’s festival, its 22nd iteration, kicks off on Sept 8 in the Klang Valley, before travelling to four other states, namely Penang, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak, until Oct 18, bringing another diverse selection of Japanese films to local cinephiles.
In his opening speech at this year’s JFF, Norihisa Tsukamoto – the director of The Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur – acknowledged the popularity of the annual film festival.
He said: “Films go beyond the screens; beyond the cinema halls. Every year JFF leaves a long-lasting impression on its audiences.
“In fact, it has touched so many people that some have been asking about it as early as March this year.”
He went on to add that the film festival is an important project for The Japan Foundation as it highlights the strong ties and similarities between Japan and Malaysia.
“It has also allowed us to reflect more about ourselves. These values are especially important in these unpredictable times,” Tsukamoto noted.
This year’s festival opens with Tokyo Taxi, the latest film by acclaimed auteur Yoji Yamada, as part of a special retrospective celebrating his six-decade career.
Yamada, who turns 96 on Sept 13, is renowned for his humanistic storytelling and portrayals of everyday life.
The retrospective also features his other classics such as A Distant Cry From Spring (1980) and Toro-San’s Many Splintered Love (1981).
“Yoji Yamada has directed over 92 films, focusing on humanity. His works are beloved by many, including the late (Malaysian director) Yasmin Ahmad,” Tsukamoto said.
“As the world becomes more divided day by day with global conflicts and uncertainty, we believe that the works of Yamada should be introduced to a wide audience, to remind ourselves of our humanity,” he added.
Another interesting theme JFF is showcasing this year is “Girl Power” through films such as Fujiko, Purehearted and Hula Girls (4K Remastered) that feature strong female protagonists and their journeys of resilience, self-discovery and determination.
JFF 2026 will showcase 14 films spanning a diverse range of genres, from anime and kabuki-related films to suspense, comedy and drama, offering something for every movie fan.
JFF 2026 will be held in Klang Valley (GSC Mid Valley, GSC 1 Utama, GSC MyTown) from Sept 10-16; Penang (GSC Gurney Plaza) from Sept 17-20; Johor Baru (GSC Paradigm JB) from Sept 24-27; Kuching (GSC CityOne Megamall) from Oct 8-11; and Kota Kinabalu (GSC Suria Sabah) from Oct 15-18.
Tickets are priced at RM10 and are available through GSC channels.
All films will be presented in Japanese with English subtitles.
For a complete listing of film synopsis, showtimes, and additional information, go to JFKL’s social media platforms and gsc.com.my.
Here are some exciting titles to look out for:
Tokyo Taxi
A remake of the 2022 French film Driving Madeleine and revered director Yamada’s 91st feature. It tells the story of a taxi driver and an 85-year-old woman on a day-long journey through Tokyo that changes their lives as she tells him about her past.
Suzuki=Bakudan
Is Suzuki a psychic, a terrorist or something else entirely? He successfully predicted a bomb that just went off in Tokyo. As more bombs explode across the city, the investigators are drawn to his deadly game.
One Last Love Letter
Released this year, this film – inspired by a true story – follows Nazuna, who writes a letter to a boy she secretly admired in her youth. Her letter reaches the family of the boy, who tragically died in a subway disaster.
Chimney Town: Frozen In Time
For those who like animation, this should be on your list. Lubicchi enters a strange world where the clock tower has malfunctioned and is stuck at 11.59. He must get it working again and rediscover faith to find his way back home.
You Are The Film
This sci-fi comedy is about two struggling artists in Tokyo who discover they are trapped inside each other’s movie.
Get a free ticket for the Japanese Film Festival in Klang Valley, Penang and Johor Baru, with the following promo codes:
Klang Valley: JFFTSK000TE2A
Penang: JFFTSP000GT88
Johor Baru: JFFTSJ000AO15
Redemption can be made via GSC e-payment (gsc.com.my and GSC mobile app) and GSC e-kiosk, on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to use your promo code:
> The promo code must be redeemed at the “Payment Mode” page.
> After choosing your payment mode (online banking, e-wallet or PayPal), check the “Do You Have A Promo Code?” box.
> Enter your promo code and click “Submit” to redeem.
> The promo code is not exchangeable for cash, and is not valid with any ongoing GSC promotions, vouchers or privilege cards.
> Promo code is inclusive of RM0.50 booking fee per ticket for online transaction
> GSC will not be held responsible for any loss/damage of the promo code.
Terms and conditions:
> The promo code entitles the holder to redeem one movie ticket per booking for JFF 2026.
> Redemption for Klang Valley starts on Sept 3, Penang on Sept 10 and Johor Baru on Sept 17.
> Redemption is on a first-come, first-served basis. A total of 200 redemptions are available for Klang Valley, 200 for Penang and 100 for Johor Baru.
> Redemption for JFF 2026 is subject to seat availability.
