Three Japanese directors selected for Cannes Film Festival competition

The 79th Cannes Film Festival, held in May 2026, marks a historic moment for Japanese cinema.

For the first time in 25 years, three Japanese directors are competing for the prestigious Palme d’Or.

The selected filmmakers are Hirokazu Kore-eda with his sci-fi drama Sheep in the Box, Ryusuke Hamaguchi with his international co-production All of a Sudden, and Koji Fukada with his film Nagi Notes.

This milestone recalls the year 2001, when three Japanese films last vied for the top prize simultaneously.

Beyond these three, Japan has been named the Country of Honour for the Marché du Film, leading to industry summits and a global showcase of Japanese creativity.

Other notable directors like Yukiko Sode and Kiyoshi Kurosawa also have films appearing in different categories, further cementing Japan's influence on the global stage.

With an auteur-heavy selection this year, Cannes 2026 highlights the ongoing international acclaim of Japan’s most talented storytellers.