Report: "JAPANESE NIGHT in Cannes 2026"
The international cultural exchange event "JAPANESE NIGHT in Cannes 2026," founded by actor MEGUMI, was held at the Hôtel Martinez in Cannes, attracting over 1,000 film industry professionals.
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- 📰 Published: May 21, 2026 at 00:00
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The JAPANESE NIGHT secretariat held the international cultural exchange event "JAPANESE NIGHT in Cannes 2026," founded by actor and producer MEGUMI, on Friday, May 15, 2026 (local time), at the Hôtel Martinez in Cannes, France.
This event was organized by performers and creators with the aim of showcasing the appeal of Japanese film and culture to the world, focusing on "people, objects, and events," and promoting international cultural exchange in various industrial fields, starting with cinema. The venue welcomed over 1,000 guests, including leading directors and actors from the Japanese film industry, as well as film professionals, media, and leaders from various sectors around the world. It was a night of active networking that transcended borders and cultures, serving as an opportunity to create new business ventures and support various projects.
Opening Remarks by Founder MEGUMI:
At the beginning of the event, founder MEGUMI took the stage. She shared her vision and thoughts on the event: "Films connect people, transcending language and culture. I hope this place will be the 'beginning' of new encounters and collaborations that extend into film, culture, and business."
Takumi Saitoh & Director Yuno Nagao: Production Announcement of Debut Film "LITA":
Actor and filmmaker Takumi Saitoh introduced Yuno Nagao, who made her directorial debut with this film, as "the most creative talent in Japan right now." Regarding the film "LITA," which was announced at the event, Director Nagao gave a speech in English: "Currently, there are 8.3 billion people on Earth, but I wonder how many humans and creatures there are in the universe? I always want everyone in this universe to get along and help each other. That is what 'LITA' is. I made this film with that wish. I want everyone in the universe to watch it." She also revealed a teaser for the film, which she edited herself.
Marika Matsumoto Discusses "Meeting Comrades" After Collaboration with Director Habuta:
Actor Marika Matsumoto revealed a teaser for a documentary project in collaboration with video creator Director Habuta. Reflecting on the wonderful connections throughout her career, she said, "Tonight, I came looking for comrades with whom I can create works that leave a soft mark on someone's life, or works that capture emotions that haven't even become words yet." She expressed her stance of continuing to take on challenges while receiving new stimulation.
Presentations by Directors and Creators Leading the Future of Japanese Cinema:
Directors and performers representing the future of Japanese cinema took the stage to present their latest projects directly to global film industry professionals.
LiLy (Novelist/Director) & Aki Mizutani (Director):
Launched a project to adapt a novel into the film "Tokyo Love? Story" and released a teaser.
YP (Director):
Surprise announcement of the feature film adaptation of "Jubaku Shojo Bagira-chan," which fuses unique special effects, anime, and VFX.
Taichi Kimura (Director):
Presented his film "FUJIKO," which won the top award at the Far East Film Festival. He announced its theatrical release in Japan on June 5 and premiered the trailer.
Culture Program Intersecting Tradition and Modernity:
In the latter half of the event, the audience enjoyed a bonsai performance (TRADMAN'S), a traditional popular theater stage (Taishu Engeki), and a DJ set by Mademoiselle Yulia.
This event was organized by performers and creators with the aim of showcasing the appeal of Japanese film and culture to the world, focusing on "people, objects, and events," and promoting international cultural exchange in various industrial fields, starting with cinema. The venue welcomed over 1,000 guests, including leading directors and actors from the Japanese film industry, as well as film professionals, media, and leaders from various sectors around the world. It was a night of active networking that transcended borders and cultures, serving as an opportunity to create new business ventures and support various projects.
Opening Remarks by Founder MEGUMI:
At the beginning of the event, founder MEGUMI took the stage. She shared her vision and thoughts on the event: "Films connect people, transcending language and culture. I hope this place will be the 'beginning' of new encounters and collaborations that extend into film, culture, and business."
Takumi Saitoh & Director Yuno Nagao: Production Announcement of Debut Film "LITA":
Actor and filmmaker Takumi Saitoh introduced Yuno Nagao, who made her directorial debut with this film, as "the most creative talent in Japan right now." Regarding the film "LITA," which was announced at the event, Director Nagao gave a speech in English: "Currently, there are 8.3 billion people on Earth, but I wonder how many humans and creatures there are in the universe? I always want everyone in this universe to get along and help each other. That is what 'LITA' is. I made this film with that wish. I want everyone in the universe to watch it." She also revealed a teaser for the film, which she edited herself.
Marika Matsumoto Discusses "Meeting Comrades" After Collaboration with Director Habuta:
Actor Marika Matsumoto revealed a teaser for a documentary project in collaboration with video creator Director Habuta. Reflecting on the wonderful connections throughout her career, she said, "Tonight, I came looking for comrades with whom I can create works that leave a soft mark on someone's life, or works that capture emotions that haven't even become words yet." She expressed her stance of continuing to take on challenges while receiving new stimulation.
Presentations by Directors and Creators Leading the Future of Japanese Cinema:
Directors and performers representing the future of Japanese cinema took the stage to present their latest projects directly to global film industry professionals.
LiLy (Novelist/Director) & Aki Mizutani (Director):
Launched a project to adapt a novel into the film "Tokyo Love? Story" and released a teaser.
YP (Director):
Surprise announcement of the feature film adaptation of "Jubaku Shojo Bagira-chan," which fuses unique special effects, anime, and VFX.
Taichi Kimura (Director):
Presented his film "FUJIKO," which won the top award at the Far East Film Festival. He announced its theatrical release in Japan on June 5 and premiered the trailer.
Culture Program Intersecting Tradition and Modernity:
In the latter half of the event, the audience enjoyed a bonsai performance (TRADMAN'S), a traditional popular theater stage (Taishu Engeki), and a DJ set by Mademoiselle Yulia.
FAQ
What kind of event is JAPANESE NIGHT in Cannes?
It is an international cultural exchange event aimed at promoting Japanese cinema and culture, facilitating networking and business creation among industry professionals.
Who hosts the event?
It is hosted by the JAPANESE NIGHT secretariat, with actor and producer MEGUMI serving as the founder.
What is the demographic of the attendees?
Over 1,000 participants, including international film directors, actors, industry insiders, media, and leaders from various sectors.