The upcoming PFF Award 2025 is set to kick off with a promotion campaign aimed at encouraging young filmmakers to submit their work. The submission window will officially open on February 1, 2025, marking the beginning of what organizers hope will be another fruitful year for the competition.
Last year was significant for the PFF, giving rise to the youngest-ever finalist at just 14 years old. This milestone was accomplished by Sayu Higashi, who not only directed but starred in her promotional video for this year's campaign. The video showcases her winning submission from last year, titled 'How to Be Correctly Family.' Shot entirely on her smartphone, Higashi's work reflects her own joy and excitement, which has become infectious as more young filmmakers gain the courage to step behind the lens.
The PFF Award has seen remarkable growth since eliminating entry fees for filmmakers aged 18 and under last year, resulting in submissions increasing by 153% compared to the previous year. Out of these, three entries by filmmakers who are currently high school students made the cut, with one even clinching the award. This indicates not only growing interest but also rising talent among younger generations, which PFF aims to capitalize on.
Building on last year's successes, the PFF has expanded its entry fee exemption to include filmmakers up to the age of 19 this year. This change is expected to cause even greater surges in submissions as more teens feel at ease entering their work with no financial barriers. Higashi, now actively involved, expressed the importance of young individuals exploring filmmaking beyond the confines of YouTube and TikTok.
Alongside the elimination of fees, the PFF is also introducing reforms to its production initiative, formerly known as the PFF Scholarship. Previously, only award winners had rights to propose projects; now, all finalists are invited to submit their ideas. This structural change is aimed at promoting enriched planning and thoughtful project development from the onset of participation.
The PFF Award is not just another film competition; it's been instrumental for aspiring filmmakers since its inception in 1977. To date, it has helped discovered over 180 directors who have excelled within the film industry, including notable figures like Kiyoshi Kurosawa and Naoko Ogigami.
For participants, feedback from jurors is guaranteed regardless of selection outcomes. This adds tremendous value to not just the competition but also to the individual growth of filmmakers. The PFF distinguishes itself by having no restrictions on entry lengths or genres, welcoming all forms of cinematic expression.
This year’s submission process opens on February 1, 2025, and concludes on March 23, 2025. The qualifiers will then be announced by July 2025, culminating with the festival scheduled for September 6-20, 2025. Over the years, the festival has offered new and established filmmakers alike, valuable exposure and recognition.
Young talents are urged to participate, and PFF hopes this expanded initiative will grant aspiring directors the platform both to experiment and to succeed. The PFF seeks to remain at the forefront of cinematic exploration and innovation, fostering the next wave of filmmakers.