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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider Experience the magic of Japanese Cinema at SM City Manila

Experience the magic of Japanese Cinema at SM City Manila

Published Oct 25, 2025 08:00 pm
The Japan Foundation, Manila proudly presents the return of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) to Philippine theaters this October 2025! Catch a specially curated lineup of 12 remarkable films—from beloved classics to critically acclaimed new releases—now showing at SM Cinema Manila.
JFF 2025 explores the power of cinema to connect—past and future, humanity and technology, body and spirit, individual and community. These films serve as metaphorical bridges, inviting audiences to build connections rather than walls.
Kick off the festival with the 4K remaster of Shunji Iwai’s iconic debut, Love Letter. Revered for its haunting snowy visuals and the unforgettable line, “Ogenki desu ka?” (How are you?), this romantic masterpiece has touched hearts across 20-plus countries. Its legacy continues in 18×2 “Beyond Youthful Days” (2024), a Taiwan-Japan co-production by Michihito Fujii.
This year’s lineup spans genres and generations, featuring: “Seven Samurai” (1956) by Akira Kurosawa; “Ghost in the Shell” (1995), the animated cult classic “Spirited Away” (2001) by Hayao Miyazaki; “A Samurai in Time” (2024); “Cells at Work!” (2024), live-action adaptation “Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom” (2024), and more!
JFF 2025 has toured SM City Baguio, SM City Cebu, SM Lanang (Oct. 10–19), and SM City Clark (Oct. 17–26). The Manila leg includes screenings at the UP Film Institute and culminates at SM City Manila (Oct. 17–26).
For full schedules, ticketing details, and venue information, visit the official JFF 2025 website and follow @jfmanila on Facebook and Instagram.

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