Ryusuke Hamaguchi

One of Japan's most acclaimed contemporary film directors, known for his quiet, humanistic explorations of family bonds, social inequality, and the meaning of kinship. Major works include Nobody Knows (2004), Like Father Like Son (2013), Our Little Sister (2015), and the Palme d'Or-winning Shoplifters (2018), which depicts a family of petty criminals living on society's margins. His naturalistic filmmaking style, often featuring non-professional actors and improvised dialogue, draws frequent comparisons to the work of Yasujiro Ozu. Koreeda has also directed internationally, including the French-language film 'The Truth' starring Catherine Deneuve and Juliette Binoche. He is widely recognized as the foremost humanist filmmaker in contemporary Japanese cinema.

A master of Japanese cinema known as 'the Emperor' of filmmaking. He created masterpieces that changed world film history, including 'Seven Samurai,' 'Rashomon,' and 'Yojimbo.' He continues to profoundly influence filmmakers worldwide, from Steven Spielberg to George Lucas.

Co-founder of Studio Ghibli and one of the world's most revered animation directors. Known for works deeply exploring the relationship between nature and humanity, he has won multiple Academy Awards. His dedication to hand-drawn animation and unique philosophy revolutionized the art of cinema.

A film director and actor also known as comedian 'Beat Takeshi.' He won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for 'HANA-BI' and is internationally acclaimed for his unique cinematic aesthetic where violence and silence intersect. He represents Japan's multitalented cultural figures.

The King of Monsters born in 1954. Japan's kaiju embodying nuclear fears became a global icon. Godzilla Minus One won Japan's first Academy Award for Visual Effects.

Directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, based on Haruki Murakami. Won the 2022 Academy Award for International Feature Film. A serene masterpiece of loss and renewal that elevated Japanese cinema's global presence.

Directed by Yojiro Takita. A moving film exploring life and death through the work of an encoffinment professional. Won the 2009 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.