Michelle Yeoh named 'Asian filmmaker of year' at BIFF

Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) organizers announced on Thursday that renowned actress Michelle Yeoh has been named Asian Filmmaker of the Year for 2023. BIFF officials praised Yeoh's performances for their "transcendent" quality, citing her technical skill, distinctive style, and commanding presence. The organization highlighted Yeoh's impact on women's representation in action cinema and her status as a defining star of Hong Kong cinema.

Yeoh's career began with "Yes, Madam!" in 1985, and she gained a global following through films like "Tomorrow Never Dies" (1997) and "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000). Recent notable roles include "Crazy Rich Asians" (2018), "Wicked" (2024), and her Academy Award-winning performance in "Everything Everywhere All at Once" (2022). Yeoh's return to BIFF after a 15-year absence is noted, marking her attendance at the red carpet event for the first time since 2011.

As part of the award ceremony at the opening of BIFF 2023, which will take place from October 6-15 in Busan, Yeoh will be honored with a special program showcasing three of her films: "Reign of Assassins" (2010), "Everything Everywhere All at Once," and "Sandiwara" (2026), along with her latest feature "It's My Time" (2026). The prestigious award will be presented during the opening ceremony.