Italian
Bridging cultures: Spain’s new audiovisual hub in Asia
In a significant move to foster international collaboration, Akanga Film Asia, a Singapore-based production company, has been appointed as the newly-launched Spanish Audiovisual Hub in Asia. This initiative aims to strengthen ties between the film, TV, animation, and gaming industries of Spain and Asia, creating a vibrant exchange of creativity and resources.
A new era of collaboration
Headed by Fran Borgia, a Spanish producer with an impressive portfolio in Asian film production, Akanga Film Asia is set to lead this ambitious project. Borgia’s notable works include Boo Junfeng’s “Apprentice”, Yeo Siew Hua’s Locarno-winning “A Land Imagined”, Kamila Andini’s “Yuni”, and Amanda Nell Eu’s “Tiger Stripes”. His extensive experience and deep connections in the Asian film industry make him an ideal candidate to spearhead this initiative.
The selection of Akanga Film Asia followed a competitive tender process initiated by the Economic and Commercial Office of Spain in Singapore, representing ICEX Spain Export and Investment. Borgia has been appointed as the Consultant for the Audiovisual Sector of Spain in Asia and will collaborate closely with veteran producer and festival consultant Lorna Tee.
Enhancing Spain’s global presence
The primary goal of this project is to enhance Spain’s positioning as a premier production country and a sought-after destination for filming, post-production of live-action and digital images, and investment in the audiovisual sector. According to ICEX, the awarding of this contract marks a significant milestone in promoting Spanish culture in the Asian region.
Borgia, who has lived in Asia for over 20 years, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “As a Spaniard who has lived in Asia for over 20 years, I see the vast opportunities for collaboration between the Spanish and Asian audiovisual industries, and we are excited to be building the bridges with a great team of collaborators.”
Upcoming engagements and festivals
The hub is set to make its presence felt at multiple film markets and festivals throughout the year. These include:
- Venice Film Festival
- Busan’s ACFM
- Tokyo’s TIFFCOM
- Taiwan Creative Content Fest
- Film Bazaar in Goa, India
- Indonesia’s JAFF
- Asian Television Forum & Market in Singapore
These events will provide ample opportunities for networking, showcasing Spanish talent, and exploring potential collaborations.
A seasoned team
Lorna Tee, who has extensive experience straddling Asia and Europe, will play a crucial role in this initiative. Recently, she produced the Cannes film “Viet & Nam” and serves as the secretary general for the Asian Film Alliance Network (AFAN), an association of seven film agencies from Asia dedicated to fostering closer understanding and enhancing collaboration within the region.
Personal reflections for cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, this initiative opens up a world of possibilities. Imagine the fusion of Spanish storytelling with Asian cinematic techniques, creating a unique blend of cultures and narratives. The potential for groundbreaking content is immense, and fans can look forward to a diverse array of films and series that reflect this rich collaboration.
For those interested in exploring the works mentioned, here are some direct links to trailers and information pages:
In-depth analysis and distinctive comments
This initiative is not just about promoting Spanish culture in Asia; it’s about creating a synergy between two vibrant and diverse regions. The exchange of ideas, techniques, and stories will undoubtedly lead to innovative and compelling content that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Moreover, the involvement of seasoned professionals like Fran Borgia and Lorna Tee ensures that the project is in capable hands. Their combined expertise and passion for cinema will drive the success of this hub, making it a beacon of creativity and collaboration.
Final thoughts
The establishment of the Spanish Audiovisual Hub in Asia is a bold and exciting step towards a more interconnected and collaborative global film industry. It promises to bring together the best of Spanish and Asian cinema, creating a rich tapestry of stories and experiences that will captivate audiences around the world. As this initiative unfolds, it will be fascinating to see the new and innovative content that emerges from this unique cultural exchange.
