Park Chan-wook Sounds Alarm on AI, Pushes Korean Theatrical Revival With Busan Opener ‘No Other Choice’: ‘A Fear We All Share’

Celluloid Dreams has secured worldwide sales rights for 'Shape of Momo,' the debut feature by Indian filmmaker Tribeny Rai. This film is set to make its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival and will also be showcased in the New Directors section at the San Sebastián Film Festival. This acquisition highlights the growing recognition of Indian cinema on international platforms, making it an exciting moment for both the filmmaker and audiences eager for fresh narratives.

Renowned Malaysian-Taiwanese director Tsai Ming-liang is set to shoot and premiere his latest 'Walker' film at the upcoming Ji.hlava Film Festival, running from October 24 to November 2. This is significant as Tsai, who previously won the Golden Lion at Venice for 'Vive L'Amour' and the Special Jury Prize in Berlin, continues to push the boundaries of cinema with his unique storytelling style. His participation in this festival highlights the importance of independent films and showcases his ongoing influence in the film industry.

The first trailer for 'Hana Korea,' a North Korean refugee drama starring Kim Minha from 'Pachinko,' has been released ahead of its premiere at the Busan International Film Festival.

Editor’s Note: 'Hana Korea' highlights the struggles of North Korean refugees adapting to life in South Korea. This film is significant as it sheds light on a pressing humanitarian issue while showcasing diverse storytelling in cinema.

The first trailer for 'Spying Stars,' directed by Vimukthi Jayasundara, has been released ahead of its premiere at the Busan International Film Festival. This sci-fi drama explores themes of loss and duty through the journey of a scientist.

Editor’s Note: 'Spying Stars' is significant as it showcases the talents of Sri Lankan filmmaker Vimukthi Jayasundara on an international stage. The film's debut at a prestigious festival like Busan highlights the growing recognition of South Asian cinema.

Oscar season is in full swing with recent submissions from Brazil, Poland, and Hungary. The deadline for international feature selections is approaching on Oct. 1, leading to many announcements soon. The Oscars shortlists will be revealed on Dec. 16.

Editor’s Note: This is an exciting time for filmmakers and fans alike as countries submit their best films for consideration. The upcoming announcements will highlight diverse international cinema, and the anticipation builds as we await the shortlist reveal.

The Venice Film Festival 2025 showcased eight outstanding films, marking a significant improvement over the previous year. Attendees enjoyed a diverse range of cinematic experiences in the beautiful city of Venice.

Editor’s Note: This year's festival was a highlight for film enthusiasts, featuring a selection of films that not only entertained but also sparked conversations about cinema's evolving landscape. The positive reception of these films indicates a vibrant future for the industry.

Spain has officially submitted 'Sirât,' directed by Oliver Laxe, as its entry for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Oscars. This film, which recently won the jury prize at the Cannes Film Festival, was selected by the Spanish Film Academy from a shortlist of three contenders. This recognition not only highlights the film's artistic merit but also showcases Spain's vibrant cinema on an international stage, making it a significant moment for Spanish filmmakers.

Spain has chosen 'Sirât,' directed by Oliver Laxe, as its official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. This film, which captivated audiences at its world premiere during the Cannes Festival, has garnered significant attention, especially after Neon secured its North American distribution rights. This selection not only highlights Spain's commitment to showcasing exceptional cinema but also raises the profile of 'Sirât' on an international stage, potentially influencing its reception and success at the Oscars.

Tomas Lindberg, the late frontman of the Swedish band At the Gates, revolutionized death metal with his unique and introspective lyricism. Unlike many in the genre, he avoided clichéd themes of violence and hatred, instead exploring deeper emotional landscapes. His innovative approach not only set him apart but also left a lasting impact on heavy music, ensuring that his voice will resonate through the ages. This matters because it highlights the potential for artistic expression within genres often seen as one-dimensional.

Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar's decision to withdraw state funding for the Ophir Awards following the win of the Palestinian-themed drama 'The Sea' has sparked significant controversy. This move raises questions about the government's stance on cultural expression and the representation of Palestinian narratives in Israeli cinema. The implications of this decision could affect the future of artistic endeavors that challenge the status quo, making it a pivotal moment in the intersection of culture and politics.

Dolly Mixture, the all-girl trio that brought a playful twist to punk music, is reflecting on their journey and the challenges they faced in the early 1980s. With notable fans like Paul Weller and Captain Sensible, they carved out a unique space in a scene often dominated by noise and anger. Singer Debsey Wykes recalls the nerves of performing at London's Hammersmith Odeon, highlighting the band's struggle to fit into the punk mold while still making a significant impact. Their story matters as it showcases the diversity within the punk genre and the importance of female voices in music history.

Seriesly kicked off its second year in Berlin with an engaging keynote by Igor Simić, exploring the future of content creation across various mediums like film, TV, and social media. This event is significant as it brings together diverse fields to discuss how content shapes our culture and society, highlighting the importance of innovation in storytelling.