Program

Satoshi Kon special feature

In 2025, the 3rd NIAFF will feature a special focus on Satoshi Kon, who died in 2010 at the young age of 46. Fourteen years after his death, he remains one of the most celebrated animation directors in the world. His meticulous screen design, groundbreaking direction that seamlessly blends reality and fiction, and the intellectual depth woven into his works all make him an extraordinary figure in the history of animation.

Satoshi Kon’s influence extends far beyond animation, impacting live-action films, illustrations, games, and various other creative fields worldwide. Through this feature, we aim to revisit the achievements of this remarkable director, a defining figure in 21st-century Japanese animation, and share his legacy with the world once more.

This special program will explore what makes Satoshi Kon’s animations so captivating and universally acclaimed. In addition to showcasing his directorial masterpieces, we will also present works in which he contributed as a key animator or director. By reflecting on the breadth of his career, the unique world of Satoshi Kon will come into sharper focus.

Furthermore, talks with individuals who collaborated on his projects will offer behind-the-scenes insights into the production process, shedding light on why Satoshi Kon’s works continue to inspire filmmakers and leave a lasting impact on the film and animation industries.