Japan to Lead Spotlight at 2026 Cannes Marché du Film
In a landmark move that highlights the enduring strength of Japanese cinema, Japan has been confirmed as the Country of Honour for the 2026 edition of the Cannes Film Festival’s Marché du Film. The announcement was made by Guillaume Esmiol, the Executive Director of the Marché du Film, in Tokyo during the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) on Tuesday, alongside Junichi Sakomoto, Chair of the Executive Committee for Japan, Country of Honour 2026.
The news was teased at the opening night of TIFF, with organizers promising more details to come as the festival progresses. As the Country of Honour, Japan will open the 2026 Marché du Film by co-hosting Opening Night and will enjoy a prominent presence throughout the Marché’s programs, including panels, networking events, and project showcases with a focus on Japanese animation and genre cinema.
Programs and Initiatives Aimed at Global Engagement
Beyond the opening ceremony, the 2026 focus will feature a dedicated summit on Japan’s film industry designed to foster collaboration and innovation across borders. A special screening day dedicated to Japanese cinema will also form part of the program, giving international buyers and audiences an opportunity to experience the breadth of Japan’s cinematic output—from studio blockbusters to independent voices.
Japan’s participation is designed to strengthen professional networks within the global film community and to promote the country’s film and content industries on international stages. With a filmmaking history spanning more than a century, Japan remains one of the world’s most influential cinematic nations, famed for both its classic and contemporary work.
Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Japan’s legacy includes luminaries such as Kenji Mizoguchi, Yasujirō Ozu, and Akira Kurosawa, who won the Palme d’Or in 1980. Contemporary auteurs like Hirokazu Kore-eda, Kiyoshi Kurosawa, and Naomi Kawase continue to leave a mark on Cannes’ Official Selection, while emerging talents such as Chie Hayakawa carry the torch into the next generation. Industry observers note that Japanese film maintains a robust ecosystem: roughly 1,200 films produced annually, and a theatrical sector drawing around 150 million cinemagoers per year, contributing to a global gross of about $1.3 trillion in an era shaped by digital entertainment.
The Marché du Film highlighted Japan’s established presence in the market, noting that Japanese sales companies are among the most active in the Palais des Festivals. The Japan Pavilion, coordinated by UniJapan, has long been a staple of the Village International, underscoring the country’s integrated approach to international collaboration.
A Personal and National Milestone
“We are truly delighted and proud that Japan has been selected as the Country of Honour,” said Junichi Sakomoto. “It presents a wonderful opportunity to showcase the appeal of Japanese cinema on a global stage. We look forward to seeing Japan’s rich film culture, along with its emerging talents and technologies, shine even brighter internationally and contribute to the advancement of cinema both in Japan and around the world.”
Guillaume Esmiol added a personal note, stressing Japan’s unique place in international cinema and the Marché du Film: “Japan holds a unique place in international cinema, and its creative legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers. It also holds a unique place at the Marché du Film, as one of the most represented and dynamic countries.” He spoke of his own cultural ties, acknowledging the opportunity to honor his heritage through this role.
Organized by the Executive Committee for Japan, Country of Honour 2026, alongside METI and JETRO, the program details and participating institutions are expected to be announced in early 2026. The 2026 Marché du Film will run from May 12 to May 20, with the Cannes Film Festival concluding on May 23.
