Iran, Japan discuss potential collaboration in cinematic works
In a meeting held at the Documentary and Experimental Film Center (DEFC), Kenjo Murakami, the chargé d’affaires of the Japanese Embassy in Tehran, and Mohammad Hamidi-Moqaddam, the CEO of the center, explored possibilities for joint cinematic ventures between Iran and Japan.
During the meeting, Murakami highlighted the cultural commonalities between the two nations and praised the interest of many Japanese filmmakers in Iranian cinema.
He commended the artistic achievements of Iranian directors and expressed hope for continued collaboration in film, animation, and television production, according to ILNA.
Drawing attention to the popular Iranian series such as ‘Oshin,’ and the animation ‘Ganbare, Kickers!,’ Murakami expressed his desire to establish an ongoing showcase of Japanese series and cartoons in Iran, reminiscent of the flourishing exchange between the two countries during the 1980s and 90s.
He further emphasized Japan’s historical and cultural values, deeply rooted in tradition, family, and respect for others’ rights and hard work.
Hamidi-Moqaddam acknowledged the profound cultural ties between Iran and Japan and recalled successful collaborations in the past, citing ‘The Wind Carpet’ by Kamal Tabrizi as an example of a joint production that captured the cultural affinity of both nations.
Both parties expressed their interest in formalizing contracts and agreements to enhance cooperation in various aspects of filmmaking, including production, distribution, and screening of Iranian and Japanese films at festivals and networks.
Hamidi-Moqaddam underscored Japan’s expertise in animation, recognizing its potential to contribute to the development of animation in Iran, which has already demonstrated considerable talent and capacity.
The meeting participants delved into the shared historical experiences of both nations, including the tragic events surrounding the bombing of Sardasht during World War II. They viewed this common ground as a potential source of inspiration for future joint productions.
Murakami announced the forthcoming visit of a delegation of Japanese diplomats focused on sports and culture, aiming to foster further collaboration in cinema, television, and animation. The delegation plans to explore avenues for cooperation with both the governmental and private sectors in Iran.
Additionally, the possibility of organizing film festivals emerged as another potential platform to strengthen ties between Iran and Japan in the realm of cinema.
Both sides expressed optimism that this constructive dialogue would pave the way for fruitful cinematic collaborations between the two nations, enriching the cultural landscape of both countries.