The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2025 is once again set to captivate audiences in Philippine theaters this February. Organized by the Japan Foundation, Manila, the festival will take place in Manila, Baguio, Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao. Known as one of the most anticipated film events in the country, JFF 2024 attracted over 40,000 attendees.

This year’s lineup includes anime, romantic comedies, and blockbuster films. According to Festival Director Yojiro Tanaka, the theme “satori,” a Zen Buddhist term for awakening, represents the transformative experiences offered by the featured films.
The opening film is Godzilla Minus One (2023), directed by Takashi Yamazaki. The Academy Award-winning movie has received praise for its storytelling and visuals. Also included is Sand Land (2023), based on Akira Toriyama’s manga. The adaptation highlights Toriyama’s unique characters and mechanical designs.
Other featured films are Perfect Days (2023), Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle (2024), Let’s Go Karaoke! (2024), Matched (2024), and a remastered version of Akira (1988).
Japanese Film Festival 2025 will launch on January 30 at Shangri-La Red Carpet Cinema in Manila, with regional screenings starting February 7 at SM City Baguio, February 14 at SM City Iloilo and SM Seaside Cebu, and February 21 at SM City Davao and SM City North EDSA.
Admission to all screenings is free, with a possible convenience fee for online ticket bookings. Walk-ins are welcome, but seating is limited. Visit JFF 2025 Official Website for schedules, ticketing, and more information.
The festival is supported by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, JT International, and the Embassy of Japan.