‘One Piece’ Producer Tetsu Fujimura Says Japan’s IP Wave Is Going Global

Japan's anime market has reached a remarkable milestone, hitting a record value of $25 billion in 2024, as reported by the Association of Japanese Animations at TIFFCOM. This surge reflects the global popularity of anime, showcasing its cultural impact and economic significance. The growth not only highlights the creativity and innovation within the industry but also emphasizes the increasing demand for Japanese content worldwide, making it a pivotal moment for both creators and fans.

Thailand is emerging as a leading film production hub in Asia, thanks to a 30% film incentive and strong infrastructure, as highlighted by Apinat Obb Siricharoenjit at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This transformation not only attracts filmmakers but also boosts the local economy and showcases Thailand's potential on the global stage.

Black Mandala, a New Zealand-based sales company, has acquired the Australian horror film 'Nightfall: A Paranormal Investigation,' directed by Myles McEwen and Ripley Stevens. This acquisition, revealed at TIFFCOM, highlights the film's potential for franchise development. Set in 1988, the movie follows paranormal investigators and promises to captivate horror fans. The deal signifies a growing interest in international horror films and could pave the way for more collaborations between New Zealand and Australian filmmakers.

The team behind the film 'Morte Cucina' highlighted significant challenges in cash flow financing for Asian co-productions during a seminar at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This issue is crucial as it affects the ability of filmmakers across multiple countries, including Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan, to collaborate effectively and bring diverse stories to the screen. Addressing these financial hurdles is essential for the growth and sustainability of the Asian film industry.

Paul Schrader is in Tokyo for the screening of his 1985 film 'Mishima: A Life In Four Chapters' at the Tokyo International Film Festival, where he expressed his fondness for Japan, calling it his 'second home.' Schrader believes that audiences will be willing to pay to see films featuring AI actors, suggesting a blend of classic performances from stars like Brando and Costner to create engaging cinema. This perspective highlights the evolving landscape of filmmaking and the potential for AI to reshape how stories are told.

In a keynote at TIFFCOM, Tetsu Fujimura, the executive producer of 'One Piece', highlighted the significant growth of Japanese intellectual properties (IP). He pointed out that while many major properties are already secured, there is a wealth of potential in the next tier of IPs that are yet to be fully explored. This shift in focus could lead to exciting new opportunities in the entertainment industry, making it a crucial moment for creators and investors alike.

At the Tokyo International Film Festival, Eriko Miyagawa, producer of 'Shogun', pointed out significant challenges facing Japan's film infrastructure despite improvements in production incentives. This issue is crucial as it affects the country's ability to attract and support large-scale film projects, potentially limiting its competitiveness in the global film industry.

The future of the Emmy-winning series 'Shogun' looks promising as producer Miyagawa Eriko expressed interest in filming upcoming seasons in Japan. During a panel at the Tokyo International Film Festival, she highlighted the need for improvements in infrastructure and incentives to make this a reality. This move could not only enhance the authenticity of the series but also boost Japan's film industry, making it a significant development for both fans and local filmmakers.

This fun article from BuzzFeed invites readers to watch a horror movie from each decade to help predict their Halloween costume. It's a lighthearted way to engage with the spooky season, blending nostalgia with creativity. By connecting classic films to modern costume choices, it encourages people to think outside the box and embrace the spirit of Halloween.

The upcoming Red Sea Film Festival's Souk Project Market is set to showcase 40 exciting films, including works from notable directors like Maha Haj, Wissam Charaf, and Mohamed Kordofani. This initiative is crucial as it aims to enhance international co-productions and provide filmmakers with valuable opportunities to connect and collaborate. It's a significant step forward for the film industry in the region, highlighting diverse voices and stories that deserve global attention.

Have you ever wondered which horror movie you could survive? A new interactive quiz from BuzzFeed lets you build your own horror movie scenario and reveals which film you’d make it through. This fun and engaging experience not only entertains but also taps into the popular fascination with horror films, making it a great way for fans to connect with their favorite genre in a unique way.

Gary Oldman recently shared his thoughts on the success of Apple TV's 'Slow Horses,' which is currently in its fifth season with two more planned. During an appearance on the BBC's Today program, he reflected on what makes the spy thriller resonate with audiences. Oldman's insights highlight the show's unique appeal and its ability to keep viewers engaged, suggesting that its blend of humor and tension is a winning formula. This matters because it underscores the growing popularity of streaming series and the importance of character-driven storytelling in today's entertainment landscape.

Disney's decision to not renew 'Doctor Who' has raised eyebrows, especially after sources revealed that the show's ratings, high production costs, and political factors played significant roles in the failed deal with the BBC. This move reflects Disney's shifting priorities and could impact the show's dedicated fanbase, highlighting the challenges of maintaining legacy franchises in a competitive entertainment landscape.

The upcoming Digital Content Forum in London highlights the growing importance of the creator economy within the TV industry. As the event enters its fourth edition, it serves as a vital platform for both new and established digital creators and studios to connect and adapt to the evolving entertainment landscape. This forum is significant as it reflects the industry's shift towards embracing digital-first content, showcasing how creators are reshaping traditional media.