Busan film fest kicks off with 'A-list' status for 1st time

The 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) kicked off on October 6, marking its first time with A-list accreditation from the International Federation of Film Producers Associations. Running through October 15, the festival will showcase 247 official selections from 59 nations, making it the largest lineup since 2019. This year, BIFF has also been recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, allowing the top winner of the Busan Award to be submitted for the Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category.

A seven-member jury, chaired by Chinese director Zhang Yimou, will select the Busan Award winners from 14 shortlisted films, including those from South Korea, Japan, China, Indonesia, Iran, Taiwan, and Uzbekistan. Korean film enthusiasts can look forward to the premiere of Kim Jong-kwan's "The Table: Day and Night," while other notable titles include July Chung's "Dora" and veteran actress Kim Hye-ja's comeback in "Still Shining."

Korean filmmakers and actors, including director Lee Chang-dong and actress Kim Go-eun, will participate in various events, such as open talks and "Actors' House" discussions with the audience. International luminaries, including Maggie Gyllenhaal, Isabelle Huppert, Zhou Xun, and Fan Bingbing, will also visit Busan. Film director Alfonso Cuaron, known for "Gravity" and "Roma," is making his maiden visit to the country.

BIFF celebrates Asian cinema, bestowing the Asian Filmmaker of the Year award on Michelle Yeoh, the first Asian recipient of the Academy Award for Best Actress. The Camellia Award will recognize Hong Kong director Ann Hui for her dedication to empowering women in the film industry. Both Yeoh and Hui will attend the event in person.

In addition to film screenings and events, the Asian Contents and Film Market, catering to investors and distributors, will take place from Saturday to Tuesday.