Japanese Cinema Soars: Sho Miyake’s ‘Tabi to Hibi’ Crowned with Golden Leopard at Locarno Film Festival

Locarno, Switzerland – Japanese director Sho Miyake’s profound new movie, ‘Tabi to Hibi’ (‘Two Seasons, Two Strangers’), has been awarded the coveted Pardo d’Oro, or Golden Leopard, the highest honor in the international competition division at the 78th Locarno Film Festival. The prestigious ceremony took place in Locarno, southern Switzerland, on Saturday, August 16, marking a significant moment for Japanese cinema and generating considerable film festival news.

This triumph marks the first time a Japanese film has secured the Golden Leopard since Masahito Kobayashi’s ‘Ai no Yokan’ (‘The Rebirth’) in 2007. Miyake, 41, accepted the award, expressing immense pride in the collective effort of his cast and crew, stating they did a “really beautiful job.” The festival, renowned for its focus on auteur cinema and independent films, hosted its 78th edition from August 6 to 16, showcasing 221 films, including 99 world premieres.

A Tale of Seasons and Strangers

‘Tabi to Hibi’, which translates to ‘Two Seasons, Two Strangers’, is a poignant drama running approximately 89 minutes. The film draws its narrative depth from two independent manga stories by surrealist artist Yoshiharu Tsuge. Miyake masterfully weaves these distinct narratives into a cohesive cinematic experience. The initial 45 minutes of the film present a ‘film within a film’ segment, introducing Nagisa, portrayed by Japanese actress Yumi Kawai, and Natsuo, played by Mansaku Takada, as they discover unexpected solace during their summertime encounters by the seaside.

The soulful second half of the movie shifts its focus to a playwright named Li, brought to life by the esteemed South Korean actress Shim Eun-kyung. Li, grappling with severe writer’s block and the aftermath of a personal tragedy, embarks on a journey that leads her to a snowy, secluded village. There, a chance encounter with Benzo, a reserved inn owner played by Japanese actor Shinichi Tsutsumi, prompts her to re-examine her life and find a renewed perspective. Shim Eun-kyung, celebrated as the first Korean actress to win Best Actress awards in both Korea and Japan, attended the festival, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the production.

The Director’s Vision and Festival Significance

Sho Miyake’s win at Locarno solidifies his reputation as a visionary filmmaker known for his unique narrative style and insightful portrayals of human connection. His previous works, including ‘Small, Slow But Steady’, ‘All The Long Nights’, and ‘And Your Bird Can Sing’, have garnered international acclaim, with invitations to prestigious events like the Berlin International Film Festival. This latest achievement further underscores his growing influence in global cinema.

The Pardo d’Oro, with a cash prize of CHF 75,000 (approximately $86,650) shared between the director and producer, is more than just a financial reward; it’s a powerful endorsement that propels films and filmmakers onto the international stage. The Locarno Film Festival, established in 1946, stands as one of the world’s oldest and most respected film festivals, consistently championing daring and innovative cinematic expressions. The festival’s commitment to independent cinema and its role in launching careers make the Golden Leopard a highly coveted prize.

‘Tabi to Hibi’ is the fifth Japanese film in the festival’s rich history to clinch this top honor. Previous Japanese recipients include Teinosuke Kinugasa’s ‘Jigokumon’ (‘Gate of Hell’) in 1954, Kon Ichikawa’s ‘Nobi’ (‘Fires on the Plain’) in 1961, and Akio Jissoji’s ‘Mujo’ (‘This Transient Life’) in 1970.

Looking Ahead: Japan Release and Industry Impact

The victory at Locarno creates significant buzz ahead of the film’s domestic release. ‘Tabi to Hibi’ is slated for its Japan release in November, specifically November 7, 2025. Movie enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the opportunity to experience this award-winning film, and the success at Locarno will undoubtedly drive interest in its theatrical run. While this news focuses on film, the recognition received by ‘Tabi to Hibi’ highlights the global appreciation for diverse storytelling and talent across various media, influencing everything from future film casting news to potential collaborative `TV show premiere dates` for the artists involved. The `new movie trailer release` for the film is expected to generate further excitement as the `release dates` approach.

The 78th Locarno Film Festival celebrated a diverse range of cinematic achievements, with other notable awards including Best Director for Iraqi-French director Abbas Fahdel’s ‘Tales of the Wounded Land’, and the Special Jury Prize for the Austrian-German co-production ‘White Snail’. However, the Golden Leopard for Sho Miyake’s ‘Tabi to Hibi’ stands as a testament to the film’s artistic merit and its powerful narrative, solidifying its place as a pivotal moment in contemporary Japanese and international cinema.