The 'Taiwan Film Screening 2025', organized by the Taipei Cultural Center in Japan, has expanded its reach to Osaka for the first time, partnering with prestigious universities such as the University of Tokyo and Keio University. This initiative aims to bring Taiwanese cinema to a broader audience of young Japanese viewers through a 'campus engagement' strategy.

Curator Lin Chia-wei explained that the core selection is based on historical and cultural perspectives, showcasing the depth and expressive freedom of Taiwanese films. This year's lineup features eight works that have never been screened in Japan, allowing audiences to see diverse representations of Taiwan beyond the mainstream. He emphasized that Taiwanese cinema is uniquely positioned to honestly face its historical context and express views on social and political issues, which is part of its charm.

As a director involved in multinational creative projects, Lin pointed out that Taiwan has become a critical platform for audiovisual collaboration in Southeast Asia and globally. Notable creators like Tsai Ming-liang and Liao Ke-fa have found space for creative freedom in Taiwan. He also commended the Ministry of Culture’s 'TAICCA' policy, which supports international co-productions and enhances the visibility of Taiwanese films on the global stage.

Director of the Cultural Center, Tseng Chien-lung, noted that a significant change this year is the extension of screening venues to educational institutions, allowing the younger generation to engage directly with Taiwanese imagery. Collaborating with five prestigious Japanese universities, the program hosted eight free screenings that attracted numerous students who actively participated in post-screening discussions, demonstrating their keen interest.

This year's film selection focuses on themes of human rights, gender diversity, and ethnic inclusivity, including topics such as historical white terror, same-sex marriage legislation, and indigenous cultures. Tseng highlighted that while these issues may be relatively unfamiliar in Japanese society, they spark curiosity and provide ample space for reflection.