The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival runs from October 26 to November 4, and this year it will host a dedicated segment called Academy in Tokyo. The initiative brings three senior figures from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences – CEO Bill Kramer President Lynette Howell Taylor and chief membership, impact and industry officer Meredith Shea – to Japan for a series of public events. Their itinerary is designed to shine a light on the inner workings of the Oscars showcase the Academy’s push toward a more global membership, and explore future pathways for international cinema.
Behind-the-scenes Oscars panel at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Hall
On October 28, the trio will take the stage for a ninety-minute discussion moderated by TIFF Festival Director Takeo Hisamatsu. The conversation promises a rare glimpse into the Academy’s voting process the logistics of the ceremony and the organization’s global initiatives that aim to broaden representation across continents. Audience members can expect to hear how the Academy is reshaping its membership program to include more voices from emerging markets, as well as a candid assessment of the current health of international cinema and where it might head in the next decade.
Bill Kramer receives the Global Cinema Leadership Special Award
Following the panel, Bill Kramer will be honored with TIFF’s Global Cinema Leadership Special Award. The accolade recognizes his “significant contributions to the development of the global film industry and the advancement of film culture.” Since taking the helm of the Academy in 2022, Kramer has overseen the Oscars, the Academy Foundation and the $500 million Academy100 campaign, while championing a diversification agenda that has expanded the organization’s ~11,000-member base beyond traditional Hollywood circles. This marks Kramer’s inaugural trip to Asia, underscoring the Academy’s commitment to building stronger ties with film communities across the Pacific.
Private gathering for Academy members worldwide
The day will close with an invitation-only reception for Academy members from every continent. Hosted at the same venue, the gathering is intended to facilitate networking among the global film community, allowing producers, directors, actors and technologists to exchange ideas in an informal setting. Organizers describe the event as a “cross-cultural salon” where participants can discuss collaborative projects, share best practices and deepen the sense of belonging that the Academy has been striving to nurture.
Strategic dialogue with Toho’s Hiro Matsuoka
The following morning, October 29, Kramer will sit down with Hiro Matsuoka president and CEO of Japanese powerhouse Toho Co.. Their wide-ranging conversation will explore the “global cinematic landscape, the future of theatrical and streaming distribution, and next steps for international collaboration.” Matsuoka, who recently oversaw the production of the Oscar-winning Godzilla Minus One and the acquisition of Gkids and Anime Limited, will share insights into how Japanese studios are navigating the streaming surge while preserving the theatrical experience. Both speakers will also discuss concrete mechanisms for co-productions, talent exchanges and market-entry strategies that could benefit Hollywood and Japanese creators alike.
Additional Academy officials and TIFFCOM schedule
Beyond the three onstage figures, the Academy will be represented by several senior leaders: Amy Homma director and president of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures and the Academy Collection; Jenny Galante chief revenue and business-development officer; and Jennifer Davidson chief marketing, communications and content officer. Their presence highlights the broader institutional commitment to cultural exchange. Parallel to the festival’s screenings, the accompanying content market TIFFCOM runs from October 28 to 30, providing a platform for buyers, sellers and financiers to negotiate deals that could shape the next wave of global cinema.
