Guillermo del Toro Praises Korean Cinema, Cites ‘Kinship’ With Bong Joon Ho and Calls Park Chan-wook ‘Twin Soul’ at Busan Film Festival

The Hawai’i International Film Festival is set to kick off with the premiere of 'Rental Family,' featuring Brendan Fraser as a struggling American actor in Tokyo. This year's centerpiece film will be 'No Other Choice' by acclaimed director Park Chan-wook. The festival not only showcases diverse storytelling but also highlights the cultural exchange between Japan and the U.S., making it a significant event for film enthusiasts and the local community.

Netflix is bringing Guillermo Del Toro's 'Frankenstein' to Imax for a limited screening run, which is exciting news for fans of the filmmaker and the genre. Imax CEO Rich Gelfond emphasized that this film is meant for the big screen, and while the number of screenings will be limited to around 10 locations, it highlights the growing trend of streaming platforms collaborating with traditional cinema to enhance the viewing experience. This move not only showcases Del Toro's unique vision but also reinforces the importance of theatrical releases in a post-pandemic world.

The Santa Fe International Film Festival is gearing up for an exciting lineup, featuring Guillermo Del Toro's highly anticipated 'Frankenstein' as the opening film and James Vanderbilt's 'Nuremberg' closing the event. Running from October 15 to 20 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the festival will also spotlight Joachim Trier's 'Sentimental Value,' showcasing talents like Renate Reinsve and Elle Fanning. This festival not only highlights cinematic achievements but also brings together filmmakers and audiences, fostering a vibrant cultural exchange.

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.

At the Busan International Film Festival, acclaimed Iranian director Jafar Panahi, honored as this year's 'Asian Filmmaker of the Year', urged the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to ensure that submissions for the Best International Film category are free from government influence. This call for independence in film selection is significant as it highlights the ongoing struggle for artistic freedom in cinema, especially in regions where government control can stifle creativity.

The 30th Busan International Film Festival kicked off with an exciting red carpet event featuring K-pop star Lisa from Blackpink, director Maggie Kang, and Hollywood icons like Guillermo del Toro. This star-studded opening night not only showcased the glamour of the film industry but also highlighted the growing influence of Asian cinema on the global stage, making it a significant moment for filmmakers and fans alike.

The Busan International Film Festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary with exciting changes under the new direction of Jung Hanseok. This year's festival promises to enhance the experience by increasing the number of films and screening venues, reflecting the growth of Korea's film industry since its inception in 1996. These updates not only aim to attract more audiences but also to strengthen the festival's position in the global cinema landscape, making it a significant event for filmmakers and movie lovers alike.

At the 30th Busan International Film Festival, Park Chan-wook expressed concerns about the future of Korean cinema during the press conference for his film 'No Other Choice.' This drama, which premiered in Venice, is based on Donald E. Westlake's novel 'The Ax.' Park's remarks highlight the challenges facing the industry, emphasizing the need for a revival in theatrical experiences. His insights resonate with many in the film community, making this discussion particularly relevant as the festival showcases new talent and stories.

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.

The Newport Beach Film Festival has announced its 2025 lineup, featuring over 100 feature films and 250 shorts from 32 countries. The festival runs from October 16 to 23, opening with Richard Linklater's 'Blue Moon' starring Ethan Hawke.

Editor’s Note: This festival is a significant cultural event that showcases diverse films from around the world, providing filmmakers a platform and audiences a chance to experience unique stories. It's a celebration of creativity and cinematic art.

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.

Cardi B has made a highly anticipated return with her sophomore album, 'Am I the Drama?'. This release is significant as it showcases her growth as an artist and her ability to captivate audiences with her unique style. Fans are excited to see what new sounds and themes she brings to the table, making this album a noteworthy event in the music industry.

The review of 'Exit 8' highlights how this videogame adaptation successfully navigates the challenges of translating a first-person experience to the big screen. Genki Kawamura's work stands out for its witty and elegantly spare storytelling, making it a refreshing addition to the genre. This matters because it shows that with the right approach, even complex gaming narratives can resonate with a broader audience, potentially paving the way for more successful adaptations in the future.

The BBC's series 'What It Feels Like for a Girl' has achieved significant recognition at the South International Series Festival, winning the award for best fiction series. This event, which concluded on September 18, also honored 'Una historia muy heavy' as the best non-fiction series. The success of these shows highlights the growing importance of diverse storytelling in media, showcasing unique perspectives that resonate with audiences. This win not only elevates the profile of the series but also emphasizes the BBC's commitment to innovative programming.

In 'The Senior,' Michael Chiklis takes on the role of a 59-year-old college linebacker, bringing a heartwarming twist to the sports drama genre. While the film follows a familiar formula, it effectively captures the essence of football and its life lessons, making it a relatable watch for audiences. This true-life story resonates with anyone who understands the importance of perseverance and passion, reminding us that it's never too late to chase our dreams.

Former President Trump has stirred controversy by suggesting that TV networks critical of him should potentially lose their broadcasting licenses. This statement comes amid growing concerns that his administration is attempting to suppress dissenting voices in the media, especially following the cancellation of ABC host Jimmi Kimmel's show. This situation raises important questions about media freedom and the role of government in regulating press outlets, highlighting the ongoing tension between political power and journalistic independence.

Tonight, tune in to BBC Four for 'Electric Church,' a captivating blend of documentary and concert film showcasing Jimi Hendrix's final major performance at the 1970 Atlanta pop festival. With 300,000 fans in attendance, this film not only highlights Hendrix's incredible talent but also features some of his new, funky tracks just months before his untimely passing. It's a poignant reminder of his lasting impact on music and culture, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.