The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) is bringing classic and critically acclaimed Japanese films to Philippine cinemas. As it celebrates its 28th year, JFF hopes viewers can experience the beautiful culture and language of Japan with free screenings of Japanese films in Manila, Baguio, Cebu, Pampanga and Davao.
JFF was launched in 1997 by the Japan Foundation, Manila, an institution bringing Japan’s culture to the Philippines through cultural exchange programs. Formerly known as Eiga Sai, the festival changed its name in 2016, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the foundation and the 60th anniversary of Philippines-Japan diplomatic relations.
JFF opening in SM City Baguio
This year’s theme is “Bridg(e)ing,” representing how films serve as “metaphorical bridges connecting the past with the future, humans with technology, body with spirit, and individual stories with community experiences.” And it can especially be seen with JFF 2025’s film lineup, which includes film adaptations of anime that have crossed cultural boundaries, Japanese film staples, and modern classics.
The 12 films screening for JFF 2025 are Cells at Work!, Showtime 7, The Boy and the Dog, Teasing Master Takagi-san, Ghost in the Shell, Seven Samurai, Spirited Away, Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Freedom, A Samurai in Time, Evil Does Not Exist, 18×2 Beyond Youthful Days, and Love Letter.
JFF 2025 is screening at Shangri-La Plaza Red Carpet Cinema, UPFI Film Center, SM City Baguio, SM City Cebu, SM Lanang Premier, and SM City Clark until October 26. Grab a friend and visit any of the six locations to experience Japanese cinema for free.
What film are you looking forward to watching the most from the Japanese Film Festival 2025 lineup? Let us know in the comments!