Japan-China Tensions Lead to No Japanese Films at Shanghai Film Festival

The 28th Shanghai International Film Festival opened on June 12. Due to worsening Japan-China relations, this year's festival did not include the 'Japanese Film Week,' which typically showcases the latest Japanese films, nor did it screen any Japanese films or invite Japanese jury members.

According to Japan's Kyodo News, Japanese films and animated works have traditionally been featured prominently at the Shanghai festival. For example, the 2025 festival screened the popular anime 'Neon Genesis Evangelion' to mark its 30th anniversary. Additionally, 'Summer on the Sand,' starring Japanese actor Joe Odagiri, won the Jury Grand Prix.

A festival insider said they enjoy Japanese works and expressed regret at not being able to see Japanese films this year.

Tensions escalated after Japanese Prime Minister Masami Takagi made remarks about a 'Taiwan contingency' in November last year, prompting Beijing's displeasure. China has since responded with countermeasures across economic, military, and cultural exchanges, affecting industries including tourism.

According to Hong Kong-based media outlet 01, the 'Japanese Film Week' has been held almost annually in China since 2006, coinciding with film festivals in Beijing and Shanghai. Conversely, Japan has consistently hosted 'Chinese Film Week' during events like the Tokyo International Film Festival.

This year also marks the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party. As part of the celebrations, the Shanghai festival launched a special screening program titled 'Magnificent Landscapes,' featuring numerous Chinese patriotic films (so-called 'red films') throughout June.

The 28th Shanghai International Film Festival runs from June 12 to 21. This year, over 420 films from 77 countries and regions will be screened approximately 1,600 times across more than 50 theaters in Shanghai and five cities in the Yangtze River Delta region.