Hong’s Locarno winner added buyers in France, Japan, Argentina and Portugal, while Min’s first Korean production secured deals across Asia.

The event, running May 14–15 next year, is designed to help international producers navigate Japan’s complex rights landscape and develop adaptations of manga, novels and other IP.

After picking up her honor — considered one of the most prestigious prizes in the global arts — the two-time Oscar winner will sweep into the Tokyo International Film Festival on Friday to take part in several talk events.

Kramer says international membership growth, the Oscars-YouTube deal, and a new festival-qualifying pathway to nomination are all part of the organization’s expanding worldwide ambitions.

At a glitzy event at the Tokyo American Club, Hollywood and Japanese powerbrokers celebrated longtime industry and cultural links between the two countries.

Returning to lead the festival ahead of its 40th anniversary, the industry veteran sees an opportunity to capitalize on the surging international interest in all things Japan.

The origin story behind the infectious melody that captured hearts around the world as Japan returned to the international stage after World War II.

With interest in Japanese culture at an all-time high, TIFFCOM managing director Kaori Ikeda says there is an opportunity to adapt IP beyond anime and manga.

Jury president Rolf de Heer was joined by Yov Moor, Oh Jungwan, Makiko Watanabe and Alex C. Lo for a lively conversation.