#Japan #Tokyo #IMAGICA GROUP #Maria #Hirokazu Kore-eda

IMAGICA GROUP's Groundbreaking Film Project: 'Maria' at Cannes

In a bold celebration of its 90th anniversary, IMAGICA GROUP Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, has ventured into the world of film production with an original project titled 'Maria'. This ambitious initiative was highlighted during a press conference held at the Japan Pavilion of the 78th Cannes International Film Festival, where the project was officially introduced to key industry figures including notable film director Hirokazu Kore-eda.

The event took place on May 14, 2025, and marked the beginning of IMAGICA's exciting journey into filmmaking. Shunjiro Nagase, the President and CEO of IMAGICA GROUP, opened the press conference by expressing the company's vision for supporting the future of visual culture. He emphasized the importance of showcasing new talents and innovative works, aiming to elevate Japanese visual storytelling on the global stage.

One of the key highlights was the unveiling of 'Maria', the first film selected under this new project, which has already garnered attention among film professionals. The esteemed panel that selected 'Maria' included renowned figures from the film industry such as Hirokazu Kore-eda, Shozo Ichiyama, the Programming Director for the Tokyo International Film Festival, and Yuka Sakano, the Executive Director of the Kawakita Memorial Film Institute. Their involvement underscores the project's credibility and potential for success.

Producer Hana Tsuchikawa from OLM, Inc., who leads the production of 'Maria', shared her excitement and insights on winning the prestigious project. The writer and director, Tomoka Terada, contributed her thoughts through a video message, acknowledging the project's potential impact and her vision for it, despite her absence at the event.

The jury members also shared comments on the significance of this endeavor, noting the critical role of innovative projects in enriching the film landscape. Director Nagase reinforced that the aim of the IMAGICA GROUP Film Project is not only to showcase new talents but also to secure accolades at international film festivals, marking a new chapter for Japanese cinema.

Looking Forward

As IMAGICA GROUP embarks on this exhilarating journey, the film 'Maria' holds great promise as a catalyst for future projects and a testament to the company’s commitment to global visual narrative. The project aligns with the growing trend of film industries seeking fresh, creative stories that resonate with diverse audiences.

In celebration of its 90-year legacy, IMAGICA GROUP aims to push the boundaries of Japanese filmmaking, demonstrating a commitment to both heritage and innovation. The anticipation surrounding 'Maria' at Cannes indicates a bright future for the project and a reaffirmation of IMAGICA's dedication to fostering new artistic voices.

For more information on the IMAGICA GROUP Film Project, including application guidelines and detailed updates, interested parties can visit their 90th Anniversary Special Site.