Darin J. Sallam’s ‘Churching of Women’ Marks Jordan’s First Busan Asian Project Market Entry

JAFF Market has teamed up with Cinepoint to track the impressive rise of Indonesia's box office, where local films are now outperforming Hollywood productions. This partnership, announced at the Asian Contents & Film Market in Busan, highlights a significant shift in the film industry, showcasing the growing strength of domestic cinema. This is important as it not only reflects changing audience preferences but also boosts the local economy and encourages more investment in Indonesian storytelling.

Bangkok's Fearfolks is making waves at the Busan Asian Contents & Film Market with its debut slate of horror films set for 2026 and 2027. This includes intriguing titles like 'Cher,' a supernatural revenge story, and 'Mutelu,' which explores fortune-sharing rituals. This launch is significant as it showcases Thailand's growing presence in the global horror genre, promising fresh narratives and unique cultural perspectives.

Matta Cinema Production from Jakarta is making waves at the Busan Asian Contents & Film Market by showcasing a six-film slate with budgets between $440,000 and $1.1 million. This initiative, titled 'True Stories of Indonesia: From Local Roots to Global Screen,' highlights the company's commitment to bringing Indonesian narratives to a global audience. With production timelines extending through 2028, this move not only emphasizes the growing film industry in Indonesia but also opens doors for international collaborations and cultural exchange.

Jordan is stepping into the spotlight as a burgeoning hub for cinema, moving beyond its role as a mere backdrop for Hollywood films. With a new cash rebate of up to 45% and the establishment of Olivewood Studios, the country's first major studio complex, Jordan is attracting both regional and international productions. This shift is supported by the royal family, marking a significant transformation in the Kingdom's film industry and promising exciting opportunities for local filmmakers.

Jordan is gaining recognition at the Busan International Film Festival, showcasing its stunning landscapes and rich history that have captivated filmmakers. With iconic locations like Wadi Rum and Petra, the Kingdom offers a unique backdrop that enhances storytelling without heavy reliance on digital effects. This spotlight not only highlights Jordan's cinematic potential but also promotes tourism and cultural appreciation, making it a significant moment for the country.

Jordan is making waves in the film industry with its enhanced cash rebate program, which was unveiled at the Cannes Film Festival. The new tiered system allows productions to receive up to 45% back on local spending, along with exemptions from VAT and withholding tax. This initiative not only boosts the local economy but also positions Jordan as an attractive destination for filmmakers worldwide, potentially increasing tourism and job opportunities in the region.

Maggie Kang, the creator of 'Kpop Demon Hunters,' recently shared her favorite character and discussed how she infused Korean culture into her Netflix animated film during an event in Busan. After years in Hollywood without seeing Korean representation, Kang took the initiative to create a project that reflects her heritage. This not only highlights the importance of diverse storytelling in animation but also opens the door for more culturally rich narratives in the industry, exciting fans and creators alike.

Japan's Bitter End has secured international sales for 'Sai: Disaster,' a suspense film that has been selected for the prestigious San Sebastian Film Festival's main competition. This film, directed by the talented duo Gogatsu, will also have its Asian premiere at the Busan International Film Festival. With celebrated Japanese actor Kagawa in the cast, this film is generating excitement in the film community, showcasing the growing influence of Japanese cinema on the international stage.

Maboroshi, an Asian film collective, has made a significant move by acquiring the Taiwanese film 'Before the Bright Day' directed by Tsao Shih-Han for international distribution. This film is set to premiere at the prestigious San Sebastian International Film Festival, highlighting its potential impact on the global film scene. The acquisition was announced during the Asian Contents & Film Market in Busan, marking a promising start for Maboroshi as they venture into international sales.

Skyline Media has acquired the animated feature 'Scotty,' which will be showcased at the Asian Contents & Film Market in Busan. This family-friendly film tells the heartwarming story of a homeless cat named Scotty and his journey with a domesticated cat, Katie, as they face challenges in search of a home. After six years of development, this project highlights the dedication to storytelling in animation and is set to resonate with audiences, making it a significant addition to the market.

Chinese filmmaker Guan Tian is making waves with her debut feature 'The Daughter,' a psychological thriller that explores themes of reproductive trauma. Co-produced with partners from Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and France, the film is being showcased at Busan's Asian Project Market. This project draws inspiration from Guan's earlier work, 'The Poison Cat,' which was recognized at the Venice Film Festival. The film's unique perspective on female revenge and trauma is not only timely but also highlights the growing recognition of Asian cinema on the global stage.

Korea's Finecut is making waves at the Busan Asian Contents & Film Market by announcing its acquisition of international sales rights for three exciting films: The Mutation, Time of Cinema, and Wrangler. This is significant as it showcases the growing influence of Korean cinema on the global stage, with each film offering unique storytelling perspectives. The Mutation, directed by Shin Su-won, promises to captivate audiences with its road movie narrative, while the anthology format of Time of Cinema and the psychological thrills of Wrangler add to the diverse offerings. This move not only highlights Finecut's strategic positioning in the film market but also reflects the increasing interest in Asian cinema worldwide.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are making headlines with their wedding plans, capturing the excitement of fans everywhere. As they navigate their engagement, the couple is sharing details that hint at a celebration filled with love and joy. This matters not just for their fans but also for the broader cultural conversation around celebrity relationships, showcasing how public figures can inspire and connect with their audience.

The Korean remake of the popular Indian thriller 'Drishyam' is set to be directed by Deok Noh, as confirmed by Choi Jae-won, president of Anthology Studios. This exciting project was announced at the Busan Asian Contents & Film Market and marks a significant collaboration between Korea's Anthology and India's Panorama Studios. The original 'Drishyam' has garnered a massive following, and this remake is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to the gripping storyline, showcasing the growing interest in cross-cultural adaptations in cinema.

Bad Bunny wrapped up his impressive 31-date residency at El Choli in Puerto Rico with an unforgettable performance alongside Marc Anthony. Their duet of 'Preciosa' not only showcased their incredible talent but also highlighted the cultural significance of the event, celebrating Puerto Rican pride and artistry. This emotional finale resonated with fans, marking a memorable moment in the music scene and reinforcing Bad Bunny's status as a leading figure in Latin music.

In the latest review of 'In-I In Motion', Juliette Binoche and Akram Khan showcase a remarkable artistic collaboration that blends dance and emotion. This performance not only highlights their individual talents but also explores the depths of human connection through movement. It's a significant event in the arts, as it pushes boundaries and invites audiences to experience the beauty of expression in a new light.

Tonight on ITV1, viewers can tune in to a crucial investigation that delves into the Covid contracts scandal, revealing the greed and deception surrounding PPE provision. This program is significant as it sheds light on the mismanagement and ethical concerns that arose during a critical time, prompting discussions about accountability and transparency in government contracts. Additionally, the evening features the drama 'Coldwater,' which takes a bizarre turn, offering a mix of serious and entertaining content for audiences.

San Sebastián's Ikusmira Berriak residency program is celebrating a remarkable 34% increase in applications this year, marking its 11th anniversary. This initiative, launched in 2015, aims to nurture emerging talent in filmmaking and is a collaboration with the Tabakalera-International Centre for Contemporary Culture and the Elías Querejeta Zine Eskola. The growth in applications highlights the program's success and its importance in supporting new voices in the film industry, making it a significant platform for creativity and innovation.