Takaichi Fallout: Hong Kong cancels screenings of three Japanese films

The screenings of three Japanese films scheduled as part of Hong Kong's film program "Food for Thought – A Cinematic Feast" have been canceled, marking one of the latest fallouts from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on China's Taiwan.

The program, set to run from December 6 to January 18 and featuring more than a dozen food-themed films, had planned to showcase three Japanese films – "Kamome Diner" (with a post-screening talk), "Tampopo" (a 4K restored version), and "An" (known internationally as "Sweet Bean"). According to a notice posted on the official website of the Film Programmes Office under Hong Kong's Leisure and Cultural Services Department on December 5, all related screenings and post-screening talks of the three films were canceled.

The move adds to a growing list of Japan-related cultural and entertainment events in China affected by diplomatic tensions, including the cancellations or postponements of shows by Japanese performers and the delayed releases of imported Japanese films.