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Cape and Jetro unite to amplify Japanese filmmakers in Hollywood
In an exhilarating move set to redefine cross-cultural collaboration in the entertainment industry, the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment (Cape) has joined forces with the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) to launch Beyond Japan, an innovative program designed to bridge Japanese filmmakers with Hollywood opportunities.
Kicking off virtually
The program begins this month with a series of virtual sessions, eventually transitioning to in-person gatherings in Los Angeles. This phased approach aims to provide in-depth exposure and networking opportunities for the participants, allowing them to fully absorb and integrate into the Hollywood landscape.
Meet the inaugural cohort
The program’s first cohort features an impressive lineup of six dynamic Japanese filmmakers:
- Fujimura Akiyo: Known for the acclaimed Eriko, Pretended, available on Amazon Prime and Apple TV, which won the SKIP City Award. Fujimura is also a contributor to the anthology Ten Years Japan, produced by Kore-Eda Hirokazu.
- Yoshida Mayumi: Alumna of Warner Bros. Discovery Access and an associate producer on A24 and Apple TV+’s Sunny featuring Rashida Jones.
- Tsukikawa Sho: The director behind Japan Academy Prize winner Let Me Eat Your Pancreas and Netflix’s adaptation of the manga Yu Yu Hakusho. He also has the upcoming Netflix rom-com Romantics Anonymous, starring Oguri Shun and Han Hyo-Joo, under his belt.
- Ü Inose: An experienced international production veteran based in Tokyo.
- Shibuya Yu: A Venice Film Festival alumnus known for his project Jitensha. His feature directorial debut, Umbrellas for Miharu, is slated for a January 2025 release.
- Fukada Yuske: Renowned for his works Tokyo Override and Perfect World.
Esteemed selection committee
The selection process for this cohort was curated by an illustrious committee that includes Palme d’Or winner Kore-Eda Hirokazu, actor-producer Oka Masi, and executive producer of Tokyo Vice, Washio Kayo. This esteemed committee underscores the high standards and expectations set for the program participants.
Industry giants lend their expertise
Beyond Japan has also attracted influential mentors and speakers from the entertainment industry. Among them are Pete Franciosa and Erlan Nyssanov from UTA, Alana Mayo, the president of Orion Pictures, and Christine Oh, producer of Minari. Their involvement signifies the program’s commitment to providing unparalleled industry insights and mentorship.
Surge in Japanese-Hollywood collaborations
This initiative arrives at a pivotal moment when Japanese-Hollywood collaborations are on the rise. Projects like Shogun, Tokyo Vice, and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters are capturing global audiences, illustrating a growing trend towards integrating Japanese storytelling and cinematic artistry with Hollywood’s vast platform.
“We are witnessing a notable shift in our cultural consulting work with studios,” remarks Cape’s executive director. This sentiment echoes the broader anticipation surrounding these collaborative efforts.
Japanese government’s strategic vision
“Japan’s government has positioned entertainment as a critical economic driver,” notes the executive director of Jetro Los Angeles. The partnership with Cape underscores Japan’s strategic vision for expanding its cultural footprint and reinforces its commitment to supporting and nurturing its creative talent in the global marketplace.
Grand finale: J-SCREEN event
Culminating the program will be the J-SCREEN, a two-day event that will include screenings at the prestigious Academy Museum and a networking session at Neuehouse Hollywood. This event will spotlight U.S.-Japan co-productions, providing a platform for showcasing the collaborative projects developed during the program.
Program partners
The success of Beyond Japan is bolstered by partnerships with several influential entities in the entertainment industry, including AGBO, United Talent Agency, Japan House Los Angeles, Plug and Play, Nothing New, and Synepic Entertainment. These partnerships are crucial in offering comprehensive support and resources to the program participants.
A new era of creative synergy
Beyond Japan is more than a mere program; it is a groundbreaking initiative that promises to reshape the landscape of international filmmaking. By fostering creative synergies between Japanese filmmakers and Hollywood, it not only opens doors for emerging talent but also enriches the global cinematic tapestry.
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For more details on films mentioned, check out the trailers:
