Academy CEO Bill Kramer to receive Global Cinema Leadership Special Award at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival
The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), running from October 26 to November 4, will host Academy in Tokyo, a special program featuring senior executives from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the organization behind the Oscars.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer, President Lynette Howell Taylor and Chief Membership, Impact and Industry Officer Meredith Shea will visit Japan for a series of activities on October 28 and 29, bringing together key figures from the international film industry to discuss the global cinematic landscape, industry development and international collaboration.
The program will open on October 28 with a panel discussion at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Hall, offering insights into the Oscars, the Academy’s global initiatives and membership programs, as well as its perspective on the current state and future of international cinema. The session, scheduled from 3:00 to 4:30 pm, will feature the three Academy executives, with TIFF Festival Director Takeo Hisamatsu as facilitator. Admission will be free, with advance reservations required.
Following the panel, Kramer will receive the Global Cinema Leadership Special Award, recognizing his contributions to the development of the global film industry and the advancement of film culture. The visit marks his first trip to Asia.
Since becoming Academy CEO in 2022, Kramer has worked to diversify and internationalize the organization’s membership. He oversees its global operations and programs, including the Oscars, the Academy Foundation and services for its approximately 11,000 members worldwide.
October 28 will also include a private gathering for Academy members from around the world, providing an opportunity for professionals across the organization’s international film community to connect and exchange ideas during TIFF.
The following day, October 29, Kramer will join Hiro Matsuoka, President and CEO of Toho Co., Ltd., for a special talk session at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Hall, scheduled from 2:00 to 3:30 pm.
The conversation will address the evolving global film landscape, the future of theatrical and streaming distribution, and opportunities for greater international collaboration. The meeting brings together two senior executives with perspectives spanning the Academy’s international activities and Toho’s role in the Japanese film industry.
Both public sessions will offer free admission with advance reservations. TIFF will announce reservation details through its official website and other channels.
