#Japan #Sapporo #SSFF & ASIA #Tetsuya Bessho #Sapporo Film

Tetsuya Bessho Honored at the 20th Sapporo Short Film Festival

On September 25, 2023, Tetsuya Bessho, the representative of the Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia (SSFF & ASIA), was awarded the 'Short Film Culture Achievement Award' during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Sapporo Short Film Festival. The celebration, titled "A Night of Thanks and the Future", recognized Bessho’s significant contributions to the culture of short films in Japan.

The Sapporo Short Film Festival, which began in 2000 inspired by Bessho’s initiative with the 'American Short Shorts', has developed alongside the SSFF, fostering a love for short films across the nation for two decades. Akira Kubo, the festival director, honored Bessho stating he is a key figure in the promotion of short film culture. In response, Bessho expressed gratitude saying, "While this award is a personal honor, I would like to share it with all those who have walked this path with me and with everyone who loves short films. I aspire to continue lighting the future for young creators through festivals connecting Sapporo, Tokyo, and the world."

The upcoming Sapporo Short Film Festival on October 10-13 will feature a special selection in collaboration with SSFF & ASIA, presenting works from seven international directors supported by Japan Expo 2.0. This initiative aims to promote the appeal of Japan globally through varied cinematic expressions.

Additionally, the SSFF & ASIA 2025 Autumn International Short Film Festival is scheduled to take place from October 22 to November 10, offering both physical screenings in Tokyo and an online grand theater experience. The festival continues its commitment to inviting young filmmakers and enriching the landscape of short film culture in Japan.

In his acceptance speech, Bessho highlighted the importance of community in cultivating new cinematic talent. Reflecting on the festival's origins, he recalled the moment he met Kubo in 1999, which led to the establishment of the 'American Short Shorts Film Festival in Hokkaido', marking the start of their enduring partnership in promoting short films.

"We have welcomed countless young filmmakers from around the globe during this journey, supporting their challenges and talents," Bessho added. The Sapporo Short Film Festival has become a pivotal space for numerous creators, promoting international collaboration and creativity.

This accolade, according to Bessho, is a testament not only to his achievements but to the collective efforts of everyone involved in the short film community, recognizing their passion for this unique genre of cinema. As Bessho stated, he wishes to continue bridging Sapporo and Tokyo, nurturing future generations of creative minds in the world of short films.

SSFF & ASIA 2025 Autumn International Short Film Festival Details

• - Venue Locations:

- Akasaka Intercity Conference Green: October 22
- Tokyo Photographic Art Museum Hall: October 23
- Lifork Harajuku: October 24
- Akasaka Intercity Conference the AIR: October 25-26

• - Satellite Venue: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Cinema Festival: October 10-26
• - Online Access: Grand Theater from October 22 to November 10 and Online Satellite at Brillia Short Shorts Theater, screening "Iceland Escape - Short Film Focus" starting October 1.

For more information on schedules, visit SSFF & ASIA.
As part of the continuous celebration of short films, SSFF & ASIA strives to support and showcase emerging artists and their significant works in this vibrant cinematic field.