Carlo Chatrian Named Jury President of Tokyo International Film Festival

The Global Ambassador of Cinema: Carlo Chatrian's Journey to Tokyo As the sun sets over the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, the city is abuzz with excitement for the upcoming Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF). And at the helm of this prestigious event is none other than Carlo Chatrian, a seasoned film executive with a storied career that spans two of Europe's most prominent festivals: Locarno and Berlin. As he takes on his new role as Jury President for TIFF, we delve into the fascinating story of how this Italian maestro has become a global ambassador of cinema. Chatrian's journey to Tokyo began in 2013 when he took the reins at Locarno, where he spent five years nurturing the festival's reputation as a hub for innovative storytelling and artistic expression. His tenure was marked by bold initiatives, including the introduction of new programming formats and the establishment of partnerships with international festivals. But it was his subsequent appointment as Director of the Berlin International Film Festival in 2020 that cemented his status as a trailblazer in the industry. Under Chatrian's leadership, Berlin underwent a significant transformation, marked by a commitment to diversity and inclusivity. One of his most notable policy changes was the elimination of gendered acting categories in favor of performance-based awards. This move sent ripples throughout the international festival circuit, influencing similar reforms at other prominent events. As one industry insider noted, "Carlo's decision was a game-changer for the film community. It acknowledged that talent knows no bounds and paved the way for more inclusive storytelling." Chatrian's passion for Japanese cinema has been evident in his programming initiatives, which have consistently showcased the country's rich cinematic heritage. His multiple visits to Tokyo for TIFF have fostered strong connections with local filmmakers and industry professionals. "Carlo is a true friend of Japan," says a source close to the festival. "He has always been committed to promoting our unique cultural perspective through film." As Jury President, Chatrian will preside over the international competition jury at this year's TIFF, bringing his expertise and vision to bear on the selection process. His background as a film critic and academic adds an extra layer of depth to his role, allowing him to navigate the complexities of global cinema with ease. In conversation with Variety, Chatrian expressed his excitement about chairing the TIFF jury: "It is a great privilege to chair the jury of the Tokyo International Film Festival, an event that, especially under the new direction, has become a beacon for innovative storytelling and artistic expression. I look forward to discovering new talent and celebrating the diversity of global cinema." As the curtains draw open on this year's TIFF, Carlo Chatrian stands poised at the forefront of the international film community. His journey from Locarno to Berlin to Tokyo is a testament to his dedication to promoting cross-cultural understanding through the universal language of cinema. As we welcome him to the helm of TIFF, we are reminded that in the world of film, borders and boundaries are meant to be bridged – not built. The Tokyo International Film Festival takes place from October 25 to November 3, with Carlo Chatrian at the helm as Jury President. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the best of global cinema, brought to you by a true champion of artistic expression. *Based on reporting by Variety.*