Busan: Five Talking Points From Korean Industry Blues to Oscars Controversy & ‘KPop Demon Hunters’

The Film Collaborative, based in Los Angeles, has taken on the Southeast Asian ballroom documentary '10s Across The Borders,' which premiered at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival. Directed by Sze-Wei Chan and produced by a talented team including Alemberg Ang and Yasmin C. Rams, this film highlights the vibrant culture of ballroom dance in Southeast Asia. Its acquisition by TFC is significant as it showcases the growing interest in diverse narratives and the importance of representation in the film industry.

Japanese filmmaker Mariko Tetsuya's latest film, 'Dear Stranger,' premiered at the Busan International Film Festival, showcasing a poignant narrative about the quiet collapse of a marriage. Starring Nishijima Hidetoshi and Gwei Lun-Mei, the film shifts from the explosive violence of Tetsuya's previous work, 'Destruction Babies,' to explore themes of unspoken truths and cultural displacement. This transition highlights the filmmaker's versatility and the importance of addressing complex emotional landscapes in cinema.

Exciting news for fans of Jackie Chan! Discussions are underway for a sequel to his latest action thriller, 'The Shadow's Edge,' which is making waves at the Busan International Film Festival. Directed by Larry Yang and produced by Victoria Hon, the film has dominated the China box office for four weekends straight. This sequel could bring more thrilling adventures and showcase Chan's incredible talent to a global audience, making it a significant development in the film industry.

Miyake Sho, the acclaimed Japanese writer-director, is making waves at the Busan International Film Festival with his film 'Two Seasons, Two Strangers.' This film, which adapts the works of the legendary manga artist Tsuge Yoshiharu, showcases a unique blend of storytelling that resonates with audiences. Winning the prestigious Locarno Golden Leopard has set high expectations, and this adaptation promises to deliver a fresh perspective on Tsuge's classic tales. It's a significant moment for both Miyake and the festival, highlighting the importance of manga in cinema.

Inwave Films, a Paris-based international sales company, has taken on the sales for 'Whisperings of the Moon,' the debut feature by Chinese filmmaker Lai Yuqing. This film, which blends Khmer and English, is set to premiere at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival in the A Window on Asian Cinema section. This is significant as it highlights the growing recognition of Asian cinema on the global stage, showcasing diverse stories and talents.

Amy Poehler has expressed her frustration with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for undervaluing comedic performances, calling it 'some hot bullsh**' during her Good Hang podcast. This criticism highlights a broader issue in the film industry where comedy is often overlooked during prestigious awards like the Oscars. Poehler's remarks resonate with many who feel that humor plays a vital role in cinema and deserves recognition.

Oscar-nominated producer Rodrigo Teixeira is teaming up with rising Mexican director Michelle Garza Cervera for her new thriller 'Ornamento.' This collaboration highlights the growing recognition of Cervera, known for her unique take on horror and feminist narratives. As she wraps up post-production, this partnership not only promises an exciting film but also showcases the vibrant talent emerging from Mexico's film industry.

Tonight marks the exciting premiere of 'The Golden Bachelor,' where 23 women will compete for the affection of 66-year-old NFL veteran Mel Owens. This season promises to bring a fresh twist to the beloved franchise, showcasing romance and connection among a more mature cast. Fans can catch the show live on ABC or stream it on Hulu + Live TV, which is currently offering a free trial. This is a significant moment for viewers looking for relatable love stories that resonate with their own experiences.

The tragic case of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has taken a somber turn as her body was returned to her family after being discovered in a Tesla linked to musician D4vd. This heartbreaking event, which unfolded over two weeks, highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding youth safety and the impact of violence in communities. The return of her remains on September 23 marks a painful moment for her loved ones, who are now left to navigate their grief and seek justice.

Denis Villeneuve is set to begin casting for the next James Bond film after he wraps up production on Dune: Part Three. This news is exciting for fans as Villeneuve is known for his visionary storytelling, and the search for a 'fresh face' to embody the iconic 007 character suggests a new direction for the franchise. It highlights the ongoing evolution of Bond, keeping the character relevant and engaging for a new generation.

In a recent revelation, King Charles' former butler has cast doubt on Prince Harry's claims regarding Queen Camilla made in his memoir 'Spare.' This matters because it highlights ongoing tensions within the royal family and raises questions about the accuracy of Harry's narrative, potentially impacting public perception of the monarchy.

The cast of 'Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County' is reuniting for a special two-hour event on the Roku Channel to celebrate the show's 20th anniversary in 2026. This marks a significant moment for fans, as it's the first time the full cast will come together since the series concluded in 2006. The reunion not only brings nostalgia but also highlights the lasting impact of the show on reality television and its audience.