‘My Father’s Shadow’, ‘Lost Land’ & ‘The President’s Cake’ Among Pingyao Film Festival’s Crouching Tigers Entries

Israeli director Nadav Lapid's new film 'Yes' is making waves after its premiere at Cannes and release in France. The film, shot during the Gaza conflict, tells the story of a musician trying to create a patriotic anthem amidst chaos. With real-life tensions influencing the production, 'Yes' combines sharp satire with emotional depth, reflecting the complexities of Israeli society during a crisis. This film matters because it not only showcases Lapid's bold storytelling but also highlights the impact of current events on art and culture.

Exciting news in the film industry as renowned Brazilian production company Maria Farinha Filmes announces the development of Sandra Delgado's debut feature, 'The Outsider.' With Cannes best actor winner Wagner Moura executive producing and taking a minor role, this film will explore the life of Claudia Andujar, a significant figure in Brazilian art and activism. This project not only highlights the talents of emerging filmmakers but also brings attention to important social issues, making it a noteworthy addition to the cinematic landscape.

Jafar Panahi, celebrated for his Cannes-winning film 'It Was Just an Accident', is calling on the Academy to reform its process for international Oscar submissions. Speaking at the Busan International Film Festival, he emphasized the need to break the government's control over these submissions, which could lead to a more diverse representation of global cinema. This advocacy is crucial as it highlights the importance of artistic freedom and the need for a fair platform for filmmakers worldwide.

The 9th Pingyao International Film Festival is gearing up for an exciting 2025 lineup, kicking off with Paul Thomas Anderson's latest film, 'One Battle After Another.' This year's Galas section promises a diverse range of international films, including notable titles like 'Love on Trial' by Fukada Kôji. This festival not only showcases cinematic talent but also highlights the cultural significance of film in bringing global stories to audiences, making it a key event for film enthusiasts.

Colombia has chosen the acclaimed film 'A Poet' as its entry for the international feature category at the 98th Academy Awards. Directed by Simón Mesa Soto, the film has resonated well with audiences since its release in Colombian theaters, showcasing the country's rich cinematic talent. This recognition not only highlights the film's artistic merit but also elevates Colombia's presence in the global film industry, making it a significant moment for Colombian cinema.

France has chosen Jafar Panahi's acclaimed film 'It Was Just An Accident' as its candidate for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. This selection, made by a committee from France's National Cinema Centre, highlights the film's artistic merit and the country's commitment to showcasing exceptional international cinema. Panahi's work has garnered significant recognition, and this nomination could further elevate his profile on the global stage.

Kristen Stewart's directorial debut, 'The Chronology of Water,' has been acquired by BFI Distribution for the UK and Ireland, following a successful festival tour that began with its premiere at Cannes. This acquisition is significant as it allows UK audiences to experience Stewart's artistic vision, showcasing her growth as a filmmaker and the film's potential impact on the indie film scene.

Jafar Panahi is set to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rome Film Festival this October, a recognition that highlights his significant contributions to cinema. The award will be presented by Oscar-winning director Giuseppe Tornatore, adding to the event's prestige. Panahi will also showcase his film 'It Was Just An Accident,' which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes 2025. This honor not only celebrates Panahi's artistic legacy but also emphasizes the importance of supporting filmmakers who challenge societal norms.

Khadar Ayderus Ahmed, the talented Finnish Somali filmmaker known for his acclaimed debut 'The Gravedigger’s Wife,' is working on an exciting new project titled 'Thundering Smoke.' This film tells the story of a middle-aged Somali hitwoman seeking vengeance against a crime boss in her village. This project is significant as it showcases diverse narratives in cinema and highlights Ahmed's unique voice in storytelling, which will be presented at the Finnish Film Affair.

Colombia has chosen Simón Mesa Soto's film 'A Poet' as its entry for the 2026 Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category. This film, which premiered at Cannes and won the jury prize in the Un Certain Regard section, has already made waves at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). This selection highlights Colombia's growing presence in the international film scene and showcases the talent of emerging filmmakers like Soto.

At the Busan International Film Festival, Guillermo del Toro expressed his admiration for Korean cinema, highlighting the works of directors Bong Joon Ho and Park Chan-wook. He emphasized the cultural connections between Korea and Mexico, showcasing how both nations share a unique storytelling style that embraces chaos and beauty. This recognition not only celebrates the talents of these filmmakers but also strengthens the global appreciation for diverse cinematic voices, making it a significant moment for the film industry.

Jimmy Fallon recently addressed the suspension of his friend Jimmy Kimmel from ABC, expressing hope for Kimmel's return. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions in the media landscape, particularly regarding political content and regulatory pressures. Fallon's comments reflect a broader concern among entertainers about censorship and the freedom to express opinions, making it a significant moment in the entertainment industry.

Singapore has officially chosen 'Stranger Eyes' as its contender for the Best International Feature at the upcoming Academy Awards. This thrilling film, directed by Yeo Siew Hua, has already made waves by being the first Singaporean entry in the main competition at the Venice Film Festival. Its selection not only highlights the growing recognition of Singaporean cinema on the global stage but also showcases the country's commitment to supporting diverse storytelling in film.

Stephen Colbert made a heartfelt return of ‘The Word’ segment from ‘The Colbert Report’ on The Late Show, expressing solidarity with Jimmy Kimmel after his show was paused due to controversial comments. Colbert criticized ABC's decision to suspend Kimmel as 'blatant censorship,' highlighting the importance of free speech in comedy. This moment not only showcases Colbert's support for a fellow comedian but also sparks a broader conversation about censorship in media, making it a significant event in the entertainment landscape.

Jimmy Fallon is standing strong in support of fellow comedian Jimmy Kimmel, who was recently suspended by ABC amid FCC pressure. During his monologue on 'The Tonight Show,' Fallon expressed his concerns about censorship in comedy while emphasizing the importance of free speech. This situation highlights the challenges faced by comedians in today's media landscape and the need for solidarity among them, making it a significant moment for the entertainment industry.

Taylor Townsend recently faced backlash for her comments about Chinese food, which went viral and sparked controversy. In response, she issued an apology, acknowledging the impact of her words. This situation highlights the sensitivity surrounding cultural discussions and the importance of being mindful of how our words can affect others. Townsend's experience serves as a reminder for public figures to consider the implications of their statements, especially in today's social media landscape.