Teodora Ana Mihai on 'Heysel 85' Breakout, International Launch at Tokyo Film Festival, and Next Film Plans

Romanian-Belgian director Teodora Ana Mihai is in Tokyo this week for the Asian premiere of her latest feature, 'Heysel 85', at the Tokyo Film Festival. The film, which had its buzzy debut in Berlin almost eight months ago, is now beginning its international rollout. Mihai co-wrote the screenplay with Lode [surname not provided]. 'Heysel 85' revisits the 1985 Heysel Stadium disaster, a tragedy that claimed 39 lives and injured hundreds, through a personal lens. The film's arrival in Tokyo marks a key step in connecting this historical event with global audiences, especially in Asia. Mihai also shared early plans for her next project, signaling her continued focus on socially resonant, human-centered stories. As 'Heysel 85' gains festival momentum, it is poised to spark renewed conversations about memory, justice, and the long shadow of sports-related tragedies.