‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Success Validates UTA Strategy as Agency Unveils Ambitious Asian Expansion at Busan (EXCLUSIVE)

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.

Mockingbird Pictures, a rising Vietnamese sales agent, is making waves at the Busan Asian Contents and Film Market by acquiring international rights to the local horror film 'The Whispering Spirit,' featuring actress Tram Anh. This move not only highlights the growing influence of Vietnamese cinema on the global stage but also showcases the company's ambition as it expands its portfolio with two Indonesian horror titles. This is significant as it reflects the increasing interest in Southeast Asian horror films, which are gaining traction among international audiences.

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.

Jackie Chan recently opened up about his role in 'The Shadow's Edge' and his extensive 64-year career in the film industry. Initially hesitant to portray another police officer, Chan was ultimately convinced by director Larry Yang to take on the role, marking another exciting collaboration after their previous project, 'Ride On.' This film is significant not only for its action-packed storyline but also for showcasing Chan's enduring talent and versatility as an actor, reminding fans of his iconic status in cinema.

Park Chan-wook is shedding light on the troubling state of Korean cinema, which is experiencing its worst decline in two decades. With ticket sales plummeting to just 40.7 million in the first half of 2025, down from 62.9 million the previous year, the industry is at risk of falling below the critical 100 million admissions mark. This downturn not only affects filmmakers and audiences but also raises questions about the future of storytelling in Korea, making it a crucial moment for the film community.

A South Korean court has ruled that virtual K-pop stars, despite being fictional, can be subjects of defamation lawsuits because they are voiced by real individuals. This landmark decision highlights the evolving nature of entertainment and the legal implications surrounding digital personas. As virtual characters gain popularity, this ruling sets a precedent for how similar cases may be handled in the future, ensuring that the rights of the individuals behind these characters are protected.

Busan's Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) is set to launch exciting new programs this year, marking its 20th edition. With around 2,700 industry professionals expected to attend, ACFM aims to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in Asia's film and TV sectors. This initiative not only highlights the market's commitment to innovation but also reflects the growing importance of regional cooperation in the entertainment industry, making it a significant event for professionals and fans alike.

Meryl Hoffman has decided to leave the Curtis Brown talent agency, taking several high-profile clients with her. This move marks a significant change in the talent landscape, as notable figures like Zoe Ball and Anita Rani have chosen to remain with Curtis Brown. Hoffman's departure could signal shifts in representation dynamics, making it a noteworthy development for those following the entertainment industry.

Daniel Domenjó, the newly appointed CEO of Movistar Plus+, is making waves in Spain's payTV and streaming landscape. In his first interview with Variety, he emphasizes the importance of human connection in the workplace, reflecting a fresh approach to leadership. This matters because Movistar Plus+ is the largest service of its kind in Spain, and Domenjó's vision could reshape how audiences engage with content, potentially enhancing viewer experience and company culture.

Spain's television landscape is thriving, especially with Movistar Plus+ leading the charge. At the San Sebastián Film Festival, the premieres of their original series 'Querer' and 'Celeste' not only captivated audiences but also clinched top honors at the prestigious Series Mania in 2025. This highlights the growing importance of local content in the global entertainment scene and showcases Spain's ability to produce compelling narratives that resonate with viewers.

Reed Brody, a former New York Assistant Attorney General and a prominent human rights lawyer, is raising serious concerns about what he describes as an unprecedented attack on freedom of expression in the United States. He warns that there is a systematic effort to silence dissent across various sectors, including media, law firms, NGOs, and universities, using government power. This situation is alarming as it goes beyond mere censorship and poses a significant threat to democratic values and civil liberties, especially with the potential for a second term of Donald Trump.

Director Jose Alayón's film 'Dance of the Living' is making waves at the San Sebastián New Directors competition. The film features a poignant moment where a wrestler, after winning a match, shows respect by raising his opponent's arm in a gesture of sportsmanship. This scene not only highlights the spirit of competition but also the importance of camaraderie and respect in sports. Alayón's work is significant as it brings attention to the cultural narratives of the Canary Islands, showcasing local talent and stories on an international stage.

Anoop Lokkur's debut feature film 'Don't Tell Mother' is a heartfelt exploration of family secrets set in 1990s Bangalore. Drawing from his own experiences, Lokkur not only delves into the complexities of familial relationships but also kept a significant secret from his mother regarding the film's funding. This personal touch adds depth to the narrative, making it relatable and poignant. The film's release is significant as it highlights the importance of storytelling in understanding our past and the dynamics of family life.

The article reminisces about the beloved TV show 'New Girl,' highlighting its quirky humor and memorable characters like Schmidt. It captures the essence of why fans still feel nostalgic about the series, making it a significant part of pop culture. The show's unique blend of comedy and relatable moments continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the joy it brought during its run.