Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), one of Asia's most competitive film festivals, officially kicked off in the capital on October 31, according to NHK, Japan's national broadcaster.

This year marks the 33rd edition of the festival, but scaled down due to the coronavirus pandemic. With an indoor red-carpet event prior to the opening ceremony, TIFF opened under strict safety measures.

The festival will be screening over 100 films, including 32 titles selected for the special Tokyo Premiere 2020 section, making them eligible for the TIFF Audience Award, according to official website of TIFF. 

Unlike previous years, there will be no International Competition due to difficulties in having overseas jury members and guests attend. There will also be a generous offering of online events to be held for the first time this year alongside physical screenings, according to Kyodo News Saturday.

Celebrated British-American film director Christopher Nolan offered congratulations via video. 

"The fact that in these challenging times you've found a way to honor and enjoy watching films on the big screen is a source of inspiration to myself and other filmmakers around the world. And excitement around cinema and maintaining the excitement around the big screen experience, not just for fans of movies in Japan but for all film lovers all over the world, is extremely exciting," said Nolan.

2020 TIFF will be showcasing films at Roppongi Hills from October 31 to November 9, the Audience Award will be disclosed on the last day.

(Cover image: General view of the opening ceremony of the 33rd Tokyo International Film Festival at Tokyo International Forum on October 31, 2020. /CFP)