Inaugural

Na Hong-jin Embraces Challenge as First Jury President at Busan International Film Festival’s Inaugural Competition

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BUSAN, South Korea — Director Na Hong-jin is taking on a significant role as the inaugural jury president for the new competition section at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). He expressed his commitment to the judging process during a press conference at the Busan Cinema Center on Thursday. Reflecting on his return to such a prestigious platform after nearly a decade away from directing, Na admitted that the experience felt overwhelming. “Being on that stage again felt like a panic attack,” he said. With a keen sense of responsibility, he acknowledged the pressure of … Read more

Busan International Film Festival Unveils Esteemed Jury for Inaugural Competition Section Led by Acclaimed Filmmaker Na Hongjin

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Busan, South Korea — The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has revealed the jury for its inaugural competition section, which will be led by acclaimed Korean filmmaker Na Hong-jin. This new competitive platform is set to highlight exceptional talent in Asian cinema. Joining Na on the seven-member jury are Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Ka-fai, Indian actor and director Nandita Das, Iranian filmmaker Marziyeh Meshkiny, U.S.-based director Kogonada, Indonesian producer Yulia Evina Bhara, and South Korean actress Han Hyo-joo. The jury will award the esteemed Busan Awards in five categories, including Best Film, Best Director, … Read more

Rising Star Cooper Set to Judge Inaugural Seagull Screeching Championship in Weston-super-Mare

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Chesterfield, England — An 11-year-old boy renowned for his impressive seagull impersonation is set to take center stage as a judge in a unique local competition. Cooper, who gained fame for his vocal mimicry at just nine years old, will oversee the inaugural Seagull Screeching Championship in Weston-super-Mare this Sunday. Known as ‘Seagull Boy,’ Cooper first captured public attention in 2024 when he clinched victory at a European competition, later defending his title with remarkable success in April. This weekend, he will evaluate the talents of contestants divided into two age categories: under-12s and teenagers … Read more

Star Power Shines at Venice: Jharrel Jerome and Teo Yoo to Judge Inaugural Golden Globes Impact Prize for Documentary

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Venice, Italy — Jharrel Jerome and Teo Yoo have been announced as jury members for the inaugural Golden Globes Impact Prize for Documentary at this year’s 82nd Venice International Film Festival. The event, currently underway, showcases a range of films that tackle significant social themes through documentary storytelling. Among the nominated documentaries are “Kabul, Between Prayers,” directed by Aboozar Amini; “My Father and Qaddafi” by Jihan K; “Nuestra Tierra” from Lucrecia Martel; “Notes of a True Criminal” by Alexander Rodnyansky and Andriy Alferov; “Cover-Up” from Laura Poitras and Mark Obenhaus; “Below The Clouds” directed by … Read more