As the first round of WonderLand comes to a close, we are proud to announce the outstanding projects that have been selected to receive funding, equipment, and support to bring their creative visions to life. This is the heart of WonderLand: empowering creators to go further, explore deeper, and share their stories with the world.

The three selected projects reflect the diversity and ambition of today’s storytelling—from sports dramas to poetic shorts, from human resilience to dreamlike fantasy. Each one demonstrates the courage to imagine differently, and now, with WonderLand’s sponsorship, each will take its next step toward realization.

WonderLand First Round Awarded Projects

Tokyo Strides – Focus Track
Lead: J.J. Vazquez | Genre: Sports Drama
An American middle-distance runner makes a final bid for glory in Tokyo—only to discover a new beginning through a heartfelt bond with a young local athlete. Set against the World Championships, Tokyo Strides explores resilience, connection, and the human spirit, while highlighting the often-overlooked struggles of female athletes balancing sporting excellence with family responsibilities.

J.J. Vazquez

J.J. Vazquez and his team

Episode 37 – Fun Track
Lead: Yuwen Li, Wu Ye | Genre: Fantasy Film
On a summer afternoon, a young woman is drawn into a time-travel drama, where she reunites with her long-deceased parents at a surreal banquet. Told from a female perspective, Episode 37 blends reality and illusion to examine family, memory, loss, and rebirth. With WonderLand’s support, this imaginative concept will be developed into a moving short film.

Producer: Yuwen Li

Director: Wu Ye

Anohi – Focus Track
Lead: Lilia Miki | Genre: Poetic Short
Set on a quiet rural train in Japan, Anohi portrays a fleeting encounter between a teenage boy and an old man, opening space for themes of grief, legacy, and intergenerational connection. With its minimal dialogue and lyrical tone, the project aims to reflect on memory, vulnerability, and humanity. WonderLand’s sponsorship will help bring this poetic vision to global audiences.

Director: LIlia Miki

More Than Awards

WonderLand is not just about recognition—it is about giving creators the means to make their ideas real. By providing resources and global visibility, we enable projects that might otherwise remain dreams. These first round winners exemplify that mission, and we look forward to seeing their ideas grow into impactful films.

Looking Ahead

The conclusion of Round One is only the beginning. Submissions for the next round remain open, and we invite creators from around the world to join us. If you have a bold idea ready to be told, WonderLand is here to support your journey.

The first chapter has shown what’s possible. The next one could be yours.