‘Kpop Demon Hunters’ Creator Maggie Kang Names Her Favorite Character and Reveals How She Injected Korean Culture Into Netflix Hit at Busan: ‘We’re All Excited for the Possibilities of More Stories’

At the Busan Asian Contents & Film Market, producers from Asia and Europe gathered to address the funding challenges and partnership hurdles they face in co-productions. The panel, titled 'Cinematic Connection: Secrets of Successful Asia-Europe Co-Productions,' highlighted the importance of collaboration in an evolving market, especially as they eye the cautious U.S. market. This discussion is crucial as it sheds light on how international partnerships can thrive despite financial obstacles, ultimately enriching the global film landscape.

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.

Jordanian filmmaker Darin J. Sallam is making waves with her second feature project, 'Churching of Women,' which is being showcased at Busan's Asian Project Market. This marks a significant milestone as it's the first entry from Jordan at this prestigious event. The film tells the compelling story of a pioneering female author facing injustice in a colonial era, highlighting the struggles against masculine power structures. Sallam's work not only represents Jordanian cinema on an international stage but also sheds light on important social issues, making it a noteworthy contribution to the film industry.

Shu Qi and Lee Sinje, two of Asia's most acclaimed actors, are teaming up for the first time in Netflix's thrilling new drama 'The Resurrected.' This exciting collaboration is set to premiere at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival before becoming available for global streaming. Co-directed by Leste Chen and Hsu Chao-jen and filmed in Thailand, the series promises to deliver a gripping narrative that showcases the unique chemistry between the two stars. This partnership not only highlights their individual talents but also marks a significant moment in Asian cinema, bringing fresh stories to a wider audience.

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.

In a recent interview, Jude Law and the creators of 'Black Rabbit' discussed the shocking final death in the series and the tumultuous relationship between characters Jake and Vince. This crime thriller, inspired by New York's vibrant nightlife, has captivated audiences and sparked conversations about its intense storytelling and character dynamics. The show's unique blend of drama and suspense makes it a must-watch, especially for fans of the genre.

Maggie Kang, the creative mind behind Netflix's animated series KPop Demon Hunters, recently opened up about her artistic journey at the Busan International Film Festival. She emphasized her desire to portray a unique type of female superhero, showcasing the extensive research that shaped the series. This insight not only highlights the importance of diverse representation in media but also reflects the growing influence of Asian creators in the global entertainment landscape.

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.

Netflix is making significant strides in the Asia-Pacific region by expanding its Creative Asia program, which was announced during the Creative Asia conference at the Busan International Film Festival. This initiative aims to nurture local talent and enhance production standards, reflecting the company's commitment to the evolving landscape of Asian cinema. With industry leaders like Karen Park emphasizing the importance of supporting local creatives, this move not only boosts the film industry in the region but also enriches the global entertainment landscape.

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.

Duc Phuc from Vietnam has won the 2025 song contest in Moscow and has decided to donate a portion of his prize to charity. This generous act not only highlights his commitment to giving back but also sets a positive example for others in the entertainment industry. It’s a heartwarming reminder of how success can be used to make a difference in the community.

Mark Ruffalo's new show 'Task' is generating a lot of buzz just in time for the spooky season, and it's the perfect addition to your watchlist. With its intriguing premise and Ruffalo's captivating performance, viewers are excited to dive into this thrilling series. The show's release has sparked conversations among fans and critics alike, making it a must-see this fall.

Nicole Richie shares insights into her family life with Joel Madden and their children, Harlow and Sparrow. She reflects on the challenges of raising teenagers, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding in navigating their complex world. This glimpse into their family dynamics highlights the relatable struggles many parents face, making it a heartwarming reminder of the joys and trials of family life.

Michael Mann recently attended the Busan International Film Festival, where he led a masterclass on his iconic film 'Heat.' He emphasized that the movie is an ensemble piece, showcasing the talents of its entire cast rather than just Al Pacino. This perspective highlights the collaborative nature of filmmaking and reminds audiences of the film's rich character dynamics. Mann also hinted at the possibility of a sequel shooting in 2026, which has fans excited about the potential return to this classic story.

Alauda Ruiz de Azúa, a rising star in Spanish cinema, is set to debut her latest film 'Los Domingos' at the prestigious San Sebastian Film Festival. Known for her previous works like 'Lullaby' and 'Querer', Ruiz de Azúa's new project explores the profound impact of Catholicism on Spanish culture. This film is significant not only for its artistic merit but also for its cultural commentary, making it a must-watch for both film enthusiasts and those interested in Spain's rich heritage.

The recent production of 'Romeo and Juliet' at the Everyman Theatre in Liverpool, directed by Ellie Hurt, has received rave reviews for its energetic execution and outstanding performances by Zoe West and Alicia Forde. This dynamic interpretation breathes new life into the classic tragedy, showcasing the importance of pacing in storytelling. With a modern twist, including Romeo's Nike trainers, the production captivates audiences and highlights the timeless relevance of Shakespeare's work.