PARIS — Four award-winning Korean short films showcased at the 41st Busan International Short Film Festival are set to screen at the Cinematheque Francaise, a prestigious venue known for its historical significance in cinema. The special event will take place on Monday at 7 p.m., marking the festival’s third consecutive year of presenting its films at the celebrated Parisian landmark.
The screening will be held in the Jean Epstein room, named in honor of the influential French avant-garde filmmaker. Leading the lineup is “My Mother’s Story,” a touching animated short directed by Kim So-young and Jang Min-hee that explores themes of memory and resilience. The film tells the story of an elderly woman who fled her village during the turmoil of the Japanese occupation and the Korean War. The jury recognized the film for transforming a potentially sorrowful narrative into one of hope and strength.
Another featured short, “Summer Vacation,” directed by Kim Min-seong, received the Excellence Award for its compelling portrayal of family dynamics on the tenth anniversary of a mother’s passing. The 27-minute drama dives into the complex relationship between a young woman and her stepmother, capturing the emotional intricacies of grief and reconciliation.
“Slaughter,” directed by Yun Do-yeong, earned the Jury Award for its poignant commentary on moral dilemmas and economic pressures. This 26-minute film follows a young man working in a slaughterhouse as he confronts the ethical costs of survival, showcasing naturalistic dialogue and well-crafted characters that resonate with audiences.
Completing the program is “No Hair,” a film by Lee Ha-no, which received a Special Jury Mention. This 29-minute work humorously tackles body image insecurities through a light-hearted narrative that connects with viewers on a personal level.
The Cinematheque Francaise, founded in 1936 by film preservationist Henri Langlois, played a crucial role in the rise of the French New Wave and continues to be a significant hub for film aficionados, hosting various retrospectives and international film programs year-round.
After the screenings, Lee Sang-hoon, the artistic director of the Busan International Short Film Festival, will address attendees to discuss the current landscape of Korean short filmmaking and the notable contributions of these films.
Since its inception in 1980, the festival has evolved significantly, now recognized as one of Asia’s leading platforms for short films. Supported by the city of Busan, the festival operates independently from the Busan International Film Festival, showcasing work that is under 30 minutes long.
BISFF serves as a vital entry point for filmmakers aiming for major accolades, as winning films may qualify for consideration in prestigious awards such as the Academy Awards, BAFTA, and Canadian Screen Awards.
“We take pride in being the only short film festival globally with regular screenings at the Cinematheque,” Lee commented. “This platform is both unique and valuable, and we are committed to expanding the international presence of Korean cinema.”
This article was automatically written by Open AI, and the people, facts, circumstances, and story may be inaccurate. Any article can be requested for removal, retraction, or correction by writing to contact@publiclawlibrary.org.