Why Carlo Chatrian Is Leading Tokyo Film Festival Jury

Carlo Chatrian will head the main competition jury at the 38th Tokyo International Film Festival. The festival announced his appointment on Thursday. The event will run from October 27 to November 5, 2025.

Chatrian is a highly respected figure in global cinema. His selection signals the festival’s commitment to artistic excellence. He brings immense experience from leading major European festivals.

A Distinguished Career in Film Curation

Chatrian is an Italian film critic, author, and programmer. He served as the artistic director of the prestigious Berlinale from 2020 to 2024. Before that, he held the same role at the Locarno Film Festival.

His deep connection to Japanese cinema is well-documented. In 2009, he curated a major program on Japanese animation. This included a retrospective and a published book on the subject.

Elevating Tokyo’s Global Film Profile

This move strengthens the Tokyo festival’s international standing. According to industry analysts, securing a figure of Chatrian’s caliber is a significant coup. It highlights Tokyo’s growing importance on the global festival circuit.

Festival Chairman Ando Hiroyasu praised Chatrian’s keen insight. He noted Chatrian’s unwavering passion for cinema from past visits. The decision is expected to draw greater attention to the competition’s selected films.

Chatrian’s leadership will be a major draw for the 2025 Tokyo Film Festival. His expert eye will define the event’s competitive spirit and celebrate global cinematic achievement.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Carlo Chatrian?

Carlo Chatrian is a former artistic director of the Berlin and Locarno film festivals. He is a renowned film critic, programmer, and current director of the National Museum of Cinema in Turin.

When is the Tokyo Film Festival 2025?

The 38th Tokyo International Film Festival is scheduled to take place from October 27 to November 5, 2025. The event will showcase international and Japanese cinema.

What does a jury president do?

The jury president leads a panel of experts in evaluating films in the main competition. They oversee discussions and ultimately decide the winners of the festival’s top awards.

Why is this appointment important?

Appointing a former Berlinale director brings immense prestige to the Tokyo festival. It signals a strong commitment to curating a world-class competition program.

Has Chatrian worked with Japan before?

Yes. In 2009, he curated a significant program on Japanese animation. This included a retrospective, an exhibition, and a published book on the subject.