The Broadcast Program Export Association of Japan (BEAJ) presents for this MIPCOM Cannes edtion once again their classic sesión: “JAPANESE FORMAT SHOWCASE – Treasure Box Japan (TBJ)”, highlighting the best new television formats from Japanese broadcasters. According to Makito Sugiyama, Executive Director of BEAJ, ‘this year’s lineup features a diverse selection, including long-running, iconic shows that have enjoyed domestic success but are now being introduced to the global market for the first time’.
Sugiyama talked with Prensario abaou the partipation of the delegation. ‘The number of formats showcased has expanded to nine from six in the previous year’, said. ‘This reflects BEAJ’s commitment to providing a wider array of high-quality content’. Attendees have opportunities to engage with licensors and explore innovative formats at the booth, with discussions planned following the second day of the event.
Among the main products to be introduced are:
- DASUNA – Don’t Show Your Pants! – A game show where contestants compete to keep their underwear hidden during various challenges.
- The Swap Project – A series that features individuals from different cultures swapping lives for a week, exploring cultural differences and shared experiences.
- The Tortoise and The Hare – A program where teams receive different types of training, inspired by Aesop’s Fables.
- KASSO – A competition featuring top skateboarders in a challenging outdoor environment.
- Treasure Appraisers – A long-running show where guests bring treasures to be appraised by experts, now offered internationally for the first time.
- Man or Mannequin? – A game show where contestants find mannequins hidden around the city.
- In The Middle Of Nowhere – A series that investigates isolated houses in Japan.
- 100 Man Power – A quiz show featuring 100 contestants competing against an expert.
- Celebrity Fight Club – A competition where celebrities team up with fans to win challenges.
Sugiyama also highlights the evolving landscape of Japanese broadcasting, stating, ‘The longstanding competition among broadcasting stations in Japan for viewer ratings has fostered a vibrant ecosystem for creators to explore diverse ideas’. He also points out that many successful formats from Japan have been adapted internationally, citing notable examples such as Iron Chef and Ninja Warrior.
Looking ahead, BEAJ plans to strengthen its international presence through strategic partnerships and initiatives, including the Japan Program Catalog (JPC), which allows global industry professionals to access trailers and connect with rights holders. Sugiyama remarks, ‘we are focusing on broadening the international visibility of Japanese content and strengthening our global partnerships through a mix of digital platforms and international events’.
Overall, BEAJ’s participation at MIPCOM aims to foster new connections and expand the reach of Japanese television programming worldwide.
