Opening this year's program is "Love Letter", a masterpiece by director Iwai Shunji on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of its release. This is the first time the film has been screened on the big screen in Vietnam with the 4K Remaster version. In Japan, the reissue of Love Letter suddenly topped the box office, proving the enduring vitality of the most beloved romantic film in Fu Tang.
In addition to Love Letter, the festival introduces two new works of 2025: Petals and Memories and Sunset Sunrise, creating an interesting perspective comparing the romantic poetry of the 90s and the spirit of love in the 4.0 era.
In the historical film category, Seven Samurai by director Akira Kurosawa was shown in Vietnam for the first time within the framework of the festival. This is a masterpiece over 70 years old, has received many international awards and has had a profound influence on global cinema. The film was broadcast on VTV1 in 2016, and now it is returning to bring viewers a more complete experience on the big screen, especially those who love classic cinema and Japanese culture.
This year's animation genre introduces two works that are opposite in style but both are rich in appeal. Ghost in the Shell (Ghost in the Shell), born in 1995, is a cyberpunk monument imbued with the spirit of philosophical science fiction.
2025 also marks the 30th anniversary of the film's release, creating an interesting coincidence with "Love Letter". On the contrary, The Imaginary takes audiences into a colorful and emotional world, a soft journey of childrens imagination.
This year's comedy category has marked two creative films. Angry Squad: The Civil Servant and the Seven Swindlers by Ueda Shinichiro - director who created the phenomenon One Cut of the Dead, promises to bring fast pace, strong energy and a unique humorous style.
Hideki Takeuchi's "Cells At Work!" chose a unique approach when combining scientific knowledge with surreal humor. Director Hideki Takeuchi will directly go to Hanoi to interact with the audience.
In the drama genre, LHP brings two thrillers with smart structure and many unexpected twists: 6 Lying Students (6 Lying University Students) and Showtime 7 (Showtime 7 - Dramatic Times). Both films swirl into a mystery spiral, with thrilling choices and a fast pace that captivates audiences from start to finish.
The opening ceremony in Hanoi was attended by young actress Ho Thu Anh. She received a lot of attention after her role as Ba Huong in the film "Gia Dao: Sun in the Dark" directed by Bui Thac Chuyen and just appeared in the World Focus category of the 38th Tokyo International Film Festival. The special reason for her appearance at the 2025 Japan Film Festival will be announced at the opening night, promising to create many surprises for the audience.
