This 2023 edition attracts the biggest audiences in the festival’s 12-year history.
We are pleased to announce the GRAND JURY PRIZE FOR BEST FILM winner is Kei Ishikawa’s A MAN. Adapted from Keiichiro Hirano’s novel, this searing investigation into the themes of identity and the nature of happiness won Japanese Academy Awards for Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor and Actress. Yuji Nakae’s THE ZEN DIARY and Sho Miyake’s SMALL, SLOW, BUT STEADY tied for first runner-up.
The KOBAYASHI AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD is presented to the film chosen as the festival favorite by audiences based on ballots completed at the end of each screening. This year’s winner is Keiichi Hara’s LONELY CASTLE IN THE MIRROR, a touching, compelling story adapted from Tsujimura Mizuki's bestselling Young Adult novel.
The award is named in honour of Coby and Yone Kobayashi, a second-generation nikkei couple whose vision, generosity and tireless efforts over 50 years were essential to the creation and success of the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre. Mr. and Mrs. Kobayashi’s community-mindedness and generosity of spirit supported and inspired the building of the Kobayashi Hall, We will resume monthly screenings in the Kobayashi Hall this September. Please watch our newsletter or the JCCC website for more information.