The Film Day ceremony in Japan celebrated its seventieth edition on December first, where Atsuhiro Iwakami, President of Aniplex, received the Special Achievement Award. Speaking at the first-part ceremony held in Tokyo, he reflected on the common strengths of this year’s major hits, the anime Demon Slayer and the film Kokuho (JP: 国宝). Film Day in Japan commemorates the first public screening of a film in Kobe in 1896 and was formally established in 1956.

Iwakami accepted the certificate and trophy with composure. As the producer behind numerous hit anime including Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train and the original series Puella Magi Madoka Magica, he also oversaw the production of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Part 1 Akaza Returns this year, while participating in the production of the live-action film Kokuho.

Opening with gratitude, Iwakami stated, “I am truly honored to receive such a wonderful award. Accepting this as the representative of Aniplex, I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved.”

Regarding the two standout titles of the year, he noted that “It is difficult to discuss Demon Slayer and Kokuho side by side, yet both works share the immense passion poured into them by the staff and cast, and in that sense have a substantial weight and richness.”

He added with confidence, “I enjoyed them both the first time, but with each additional viewing—second, third—the experience deepened, offering new discoveries. They are dense, intricately crafted films, and that is a point they share.”

Film Day, observed on December first, honors the origins of Japan’s film industry. Each year, the Motion Picture Producers Association of Japan holds a ceremony recognizing individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of Japanese cinema.

Source : ORICON NEWS