H.E. Ambassador Ishikawa Hiroshi graced the SGIFF screening of acclaimed director Kore-eda Hirokazu’s film, highlighting the deepening cultural exchange and creative ties between Singapore and Japan.
A special presentation screening of LOOK BACK, an acclaimed animated film by Japanese director Mr Kore-eda Hirokazu, was held at the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) on Saturday, 24 October 2026. The cinematic event, which took place at Golden Village VivoCity, was specially organised in celebration of the 60th anniversary of Singapore-Japan diplomatic relations (SJ60).
H.E. Ambassador Ishikawa Hiroshi graced the screening as a special guest. During the evening, the Ambassador had the distinct honour of meeting Director Kore-eda, who had travelled to Singapore specifically to participate in the prestigious festival and engage directly with local cinema enthusiasts and industry professionals.
In his address to the audience, Ambassador Ishikawa highlighted the remarkable evolution of Singapore-Japan bilateral relations. He noted with pride that over the past six decades, these diplomatic ties have grown significantly beyond traditional government diplomacy and trade, blossoming to encompass deep, vibrant creative and cultural exchanges.
The Ambassador also took the opportunity to officially congratulate Director Kore-eda on his recent international cinematic achievements. He commended the selection of the director’s films, SHEEP IN THE BOX and LOOK BACK, for the Cannes Film Festival and Venice International Film Festival respectively, as well as his receipt of this year’s SGIFF Cinema Honorary Award.
The sold-out screening drew a full-capacity audience, comprising Japanese cinema enthusiasts and dedicated fans of Director Kore-eda. The evening concluded with an engaging and interactive Q&A session, where audience members enthusiastically inquired about the creation of LOOK BACK, delving into the director’s distinctive filmmaking journey and techniques.
Source: Embassy of Japan in Singapore
