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Highlighting the top films at Busan International Film Festival
The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) recently revealed its award winners, while surprisingly confirming earlier dates for 2025. This year, the festival celebrated a diverse range of talented filmmakers from around the globe, showcasing works that delved deep into cultural, political, and social themes.
Celebrating excellence in global cinema
Two films shared the prestigious New Currents Award: Park Ri-woong’s “The Land of Morning Calm” (Korea) and The Maw Naing’s “MA – Cry of Silence” (Myanmar/Korea/Singapore/France/Norway/Qatar). Both films captivated the jury with their compelling narratives and emotional depth.
The Land of Morning Calm
This Korean masterpiece stood out for its exceptional ability to portray personal struggles against the backdrop of a serene coastal village. The jury highlighted its “storytelling skills and subtle emotional depth”, making it a deserving winner. Additionally, it clinched the KB New Currents Audience Award and the NETPAC Award, solidifying its position as a festival favorite.
MA – Cry of Silence
A powerful narrative on resistance, this film was praised for its “courageous portrayal of resistance” against Myanmar’s political turmoil. Its international collaboration (Myanmar/Korea/Singapore/France/Norway/Qatar) brought a unique perspective to the screen, emphasizing the universal nature of its themes.
Honoring seasoned filmmakers
In the Kim Jiseok Award category, the jury recognized Rima Das’ “Village Rockstars 2” (India/Singapore) and Tom Lin Shu-Yu’s “Yen and Ai-Lee” (Taiwan) for their outstanding contributions.
Village Rockstars 2
This film was celebrated for its “honest poetic expression of everyday life”, bringing to light the simplicity and beauty of rural existence. Rima Das once again mesmerized viewers with her unique storytelling approach.
Yen and Ai-Lee
Tom Lin Shu-Yu’s poignant portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship was cited for its “unwavering and bold depiction of trauma”. The film’s raw emotion and depth left a lasting impression on the jury.
Documentary excellence
The BIFF Mecenat Award for documentaries honored “Works and Days” by Park Minsoo and Ahn Kearnhyung (Korea), and “Another Home” by Frankie Sin (Taiwan/Hong Kong, China/France). Both documentaries offered profound insights into their respective subjects, showcasing the directors’ skillful storytelling.
Recognizing short films
In the short film category, Song Jiseo’s “Yurim” (Korea) and Eléonore Mahmoudian and Matsui Hiroshi’s “A Garden in Winter” (Japan/France) received the Sonje Award. These films stood out for their unique narratives and innovative cinematic techniques.
Celebrating performers
Best Actor Awards
The festival also honored top performers:
- Yoo Lee-ha, clinching Actor of the Year – Male for “The Final Semester” (Korea).
- Park Seoyun, winning Actor of the Year – Female for “Humming” (Korea).
Flash Forward and Documentary Audience Awards
- Antonella Sudasassi Furniss’ “Memories of a Burning Body” (Costa Rica/Spain) received the Flash Forward Audience Award.
- Jo Seyoung’s “K-Number” (Korea) took home the Documentary Audience Award.
Looking ahead: BIFF 2025
The 2025 edition of BIFF, marking its 30th anniversary, will take place from Sept. 17-26, a shift from its usual October slot. This change aims to avoid coinciding with the Chuseok mid-autumn harvest festival, a significant national holiday in Korea.
The adjacent Asian Contents & Film Market will run from Sept. 20-23, ensuring ample exposure and opportunities for filmmakers and industry professionals.
Stay tuned for further updates on the festival and upcoming cinematic events. Share this article with fellow film enthusiasts and follow us for the latest news in the world of cinema.
