This distinguished award—known as the “Save the Earth! Minister’s Award”—is presented annually in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of the Environment on the occasion of World Environment Day (June 5). It honors a film that delivers the most inspiring, impactful, and awareness-raising environmental message of the year. Damji was selected for its innovative and deeply human narrative approach to environmental concerns, capturing the attention of the festival’s jury and cultural officials.
The Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia, held annually in Tokyo since 1999, is one of the most prominent and prestigious short film festivals in Asia. Since 2004, it has been officially recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), making its award-winning films eligible for Oscar consideration.
The 2025 edition of SSFF & ASIA is being held from May 26 to June 23 in various venues across Tokyo, with the awards ceremony scheduled for June 11. In-person screenings are taking place at notable locations such as Omotesando Hills and Akasaka Intercity Conference Center.
SSFF & ASIA is committed to discovering new voices, promoting cultural diversity, and supporting independent cinema. The festival presents short films across various sections including fiction, documentary, animation, experimental, and environmental films. With its international outlook and strong emphasis on pressing global themes such as climate change, identity, social justice, and technology, the festival provides a vital platform for intercultural exchange and cinematic activism.
The “Save the Earth! Minister’s Award” is one of the festival’s most prestigious distinctions. Designed in collaboration with the Japanese government and environmental organizations, it celebrates films that use the power of cinema to reflect human responsibility toward nature and the planet.
Through its expressive visual language and socially conscious perspective, Damji has emerged as a shining representative of Iranian short cinema among a diverse selection of films from around the world—bringing yet another international honor to the Soureh Youth Film Center’s artistic achievements.
The international distribution of Damji is managed by the Soureh International Center.
