Busan:The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has commenced its 10-day run, seeking to enhance its global stature with its inaugural "A-list" accreditation from a prominent global filmmakers' organization.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the festival's opening ceremony was held at the Busan Cinema Center, featuring notable directors and actors both local and international. The 31st edition features 247 official selections from 59 countries, the largest lineup since 2019, with 95 films making their world premieres.
For the first time, BIFF has joined the ranks of the 17 A-list festivals recognized by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations, alongside esteemed festivals like Cannes, Berlin, and Venice. Additionally, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has made BIFF's top winner eligible for submission to the Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category.
A jury of seven, led by Chinese director Zhang Yimou, will select the Busan Award winners from 14 shortlisted films in the Competition section. The nominated films hail from countries including South Korea, Japan, China, Indonesia, Iran, Taiwan, and Uzbekistan.
Opening the festival for Korean audiences was Kim Jong-kwan's "The Table: Day and Night." Notable films include July Chung's "Dora" and "Still Shining," featuring veteran actor Kim Hye-ja. Korean filmmakers and actors are participating in various events, including open talks and "Actors' House" discussions.
International stars such as Maggie Gyllenhaal, Isabelle Huppert, Zhou Xun, and Fan Bingbing are attending, along with filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron, making his first visit to the country.
In recognition of Asian cinema, Michelle Yeoh received the Asian Filmmaker of the Year award, while Ann Hui was honored with the Camellia Award for her contributions to empowering women in film. Both attended the opening ceremony.
In addition to film screenings, the Asian Contents and Film Market for investors and distributors will take place from Saturday through Tuesday next week.