The highly anticipated Japanese Film Festival (JFF) makes its return to SM City Davao with a fresh collection of must-see films, offering free admission at SM Cinema 3 from February 21 to March 2, 2025. Presented by the Japan Foundation, Manila, this year’s festival promises a diverse lineup that will captivate moviegoers with a range of genres, from thrilling anime adventures to heartwarming romantic comedies and epic monster blockbusters.
Launched in 1997, the Japanese Film Festival has grown to become one of the most celebrated cultural events in the country, attracting thousands of cinema enthusiasts annually. Last year’s festival welcomed over 40,000 attendees, and the 2025 edition is set to be even more exciting.
Festival director Yojiro Tanaka explains that the theme of satori — a Zen Buddhist concept meaning sudden enlightenment — perfectly encapsulates this year’s movie selection. He hopes that viewers will experience a profound sense of awakening and inspiration after watching the films.
The festival opens with the highly acclaimed Godzilla Minus One (2023), an Academy Award® winning film that has been lauded as one of the finest Godzilla movies ever made. Directed by Takashi Yamazaki, this cinematic masterpiece combines deep emotional storytelling with breathtaking visuals, best experienced on the big screen.
Another highlight of the festival is Sand Land (2023), a highly anticipated adaptation of Akira Toriyama’s manga. Toriyama, best known for creating Dragon Ball, passed away in 2024, and Sand Land stands as one of his final works. Praised as a “masterpiece of utter perfection,” the film brings Toriyama’s vibrant world of humor, adventure, and unique characters to life in an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The festival will also feature other exciting films such as Perfect Days (2023), Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle (2024), Let’s Go Karaoke! (2024), Matched (2024), and a remastered version of the animated classic Akira (1988), offering a broad spectrum of stories that highlight the best of Japanese cinema.
JFF 2025 began in Manila at Shangri-La Red Carpet Cinema on January 30, with regional screenings in SM City Baguio on February 7, SM City Iloilo on February 14, and SM Seaside Cebu on February 21. The festival will wrap up in Davao at SM City Davao and in Manila at SM City North EDSA.
The event is supported by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, JT International (Philippines) Inc., and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. While admission is free for all screenings, a convenience fee may apply for online ticket reservations. Walk-in guests are welcome if seats are available.
For more information on the complete film lineup, ticketing guidelines, and screening schedules, visit the official JFF 2025 website at www.japanesefilmfestph.jfmo.org.ph, or follow the Japan Foundation, Manila on social media for updates.
