Interview with Itto Kameshima, representative of Tokyo Film Commission

During the first edition of the Venice Production Bridge Location Market, the Tokyo Film Commission‘s representative, Itto Kameshima, discusses the organization’s efforts to attract international productions to Tokyo, highlighting recent initiatives and upcoming opportunities. The interview sheds light on Tokyo’s evolving role as a key filming destination and the support structures available for foreign filmmakers. His insights are particularly relevant as Tokyo seeks to strengthen its presence in the global film industry.

Tokyo Film Commission’s Role in Attracting International Productions

Kameshima explains that the Tokyo Film Commission is actively engaging with global markets, including Venice, to promote the city as a prime filming location. While Tokyo has traditionally focused on local projects, recent efforts aim to attract international co-productions by offering tailored incentives and logistical support. The organization’s participation in the VPB Location Market marks a strategic move to connect with European filmmakers and expand Tokyo’s visibility abroad.

Details of Incentives and Support Programs

The commission offers financial support for international productions, including grants for filming and location scouting. For filming, the maximum support can reach up to 66,000 US dollars, while location scouting assistance provides up to 6,600 dollars per group. These funds, explains Kameshima, cover expenses such as travel, accommodation, and hiring local coordinators, making Tokyo more accessible for foreign crews. Importantly, the support is flexible and does not obligate filmmakers to shoot exclusively in Tokyo, encouraging diverse projects to consider the city.

Tokyo’s Expanding Network of Film Commissions and Locations

While the Tokyo Film Commission primarily manages the city and its surrounding areas, it collaborates with other regional and national film commissions across Japan. This network facilitates broader access to diverse locations.

Responsible for locations within the Tokyo Film Commission is Kameshima’s colleague, Mariko Sugisaki, who explains that one of the most popular districts among foreign productions is the bustling Shinjuku. She emphasizes that the commission is also actively seeking European co-productions, with recent projects already supported and more in development, including an Italian-Japanese co-production expected to shoot in Tokyo soon.