GREAT NEWS!

Japan had a really big moment at Cannes 2026. For the first time in 25 years, three Japanese films competed for the Palme d'Or at the same time. That almost never happens. And what's interesting is that a lot of these films were co-funded with other countries like France, Singapore, the Philippines, which makes me think Japan is trying to reach a more global audience right now. Here are the three.

1. Sheep in the Box by Hirokazu Kore-eda

Kore-eda doing sci-fi is not something I expected. A couple takes in a humanoid robot modeled after their late son. It sounds very Black Mirror, but this is Kore-eda.

2. All of a Sudden by Ryusuke Hamaguchi

Hamaguchi's first film shot outside Japan, and it's a French co-production. Based on real letters between two friends as one of them was dying of cancer. Virginie Efira actually learned Japanese for her role. If you liked Drive My Car, this is for you.

3. Nagi Notes by Koji Fukada

Four countries co-produced this one, which is wild for a quiet film about two former sisters-in-law reconnecting in rural Japan. Fukada is very underrated if you've seen Harmonium you know what to expect.

I can't wait to watch these in theaters!

What Japanese films have you watched?