The Japanese romantic fantasy film “Who Were We?”, which recently competed at the Tokyo International Film Festival, has secured significant sales in East Asia. Happinet Phantom Studios and Tetsuya To Mina Film will jointly distribute the film in Japan, while Andamiro Films in Seoul has secured all rights for South Korea. Additionally, Beijing Jungle Jim Culture Media has acquired the mainland China rights for the movie.
Directed by Tetsuya Tomina, “Who Were We?” is a metaphysical love story that revolves around a man and a woman, portrayed by popular Japanese actors Ryuhei Matsuda and Nana Komatsu. The protagonists wake up on the premises of an ancient gold mine on Japan’s remote Sado Island, completely disoriented with no memory of their identities or how they ended up there.
Nana Komatsu, also recognized as a well-known fashion model in Japan, gained international fame for her role in Martin Scorsese’s “Silence,” while Ryuhei Matsuda has established himself as a prominent figure in the Japanese film industry, with numerous notable appearances throughout his career. His breakthrough role came at the age of 15 in Nagisa Ōshima’s “Taboo” in 1999. Tetsuya Tomina, the director of “Who Were We?”, previously presented his feature debut “Blue Wind Blows” in the Generation section of the Berlinale in 2018.
The international sales of “Who Were We?” are being handled by Monar Films, a recently established Beijing-based company led by industry veteran Yiran Song. Monar Films specializes in representing independent titles at festivals and facilitating their international distribution. The company also serves as the international sales representative for HKIFF Collection, a branch of the Hong Kong International Film Festival’s HKIFF Industry program. Some of the films in Monar Films’ catalog include Sakahara Atsushi’s “Me And The Cult Leader,” Tan Chui Mui’s “Barbarian Invasion,” and “Stonewalling” by Huang Ji and Ryuji Otsuka. Monar Films is currently in talks with various Asian territories for additional distribution deals for “Who Were We?”.
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The collaboration between Happinet Phantom Studios and Tetsuya To Mina Film in Japan demonstrates the strong belief in the film’s potential within the domestic market. Both companies have recognized the artistic and commercial appeal of “Who Were We?” and are eager to bring the captivating love story to Japanese audiences. Combining the talents of renowned actors Ryuhei Matsuda and Nana Komatsu, along with Tetsuya Tomina’s directorial vision, the film promises a unique and enchanting experience.
In South Korea, Andamiro Films has secured all rights to “Who Were We?”. With their strong distribution network and expertise in the local market, they are well-positioned to ensure its success. The company’s commitment to promoting diverse and compelling cinema makes them an ideal partner for the film’s release in South Korea.
For mainland China, Beijing Jungle Jim Culture Media has acquired the rights to distribute “Who Were We?”. With their extensive industry knowledge and experience, they are capable of reaching a wide audience and maximizing the film’s potential in the Chinese market. Their involvement further emphasizes the film’s cross-cultural appeal and its potential to resonate with audiences beyond Japan.
The sales of “Who Were We?” in East Asia highlight the film’s strong universal themes and emotional resonance. Its enchanting storyline, combined with the performances of Ryuhei Matsuda and Nana Komatsu, has captivated audiences and industry professionals alike. As negotiations continue for additional territory deals in Asia, the film’s international distribution prospects are looking promising. With its unique premise and talented cast, “Who Were We?” has the potential to become a standout entry in the romantic fantasy genre and leave a lasting impression on viewers worldwide.
