The 31st Busan International Film Festival has announced participants for its upcoming Master Class, Cine Class, and Special Talk initiatives. The Master Class segment will feature four acclaimed filmmakers discussing their artistic approaches and career trajectories. South Korean director Na Hong-Jin, who garnered international recognition following the release of “Hope” this year, will share insights into his creative process. Joining him are Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz and French director Bertrand Mandico, celebrated for his distinctive cinematographic approach. Japanese animation pioneer Rintaro, known for landmark works including “Galaxy Express 999” and “Metropolis,” will make his first appearance at the festival in nearly two decades.
The Cine Class program, which debuted last year, brings together six creative professionals from varied disciplines. Zhang Lu, who won the festival’s Best Film award in 2025 for “Gloaming in Luomu,” will open the program with reflections on cinema and artistic expression. The lineup also includes documentary filmmaker Seifollah Samadian discussing his three-decade association with the late Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami, as well as actress Judith Godrèche and producer Billy Acumen. Director Bi Gan and performer Shim Eun-kyung complete the roster.
Special Talk programming includes three separate conversations exploring different aspects of filmmaking. Producer Kim Tae-ho, who has recently transitioned into film acquisition and distribution, will participate in a session featuring “Mother Mary.” Hong Kong filmmaker Ann Hui, this year’s Camellia Award honoree, will reflect on her cinematic legacy. Film critic Jung Sung-il will moderate a discussion tied to a tribute program for late actor Ahn Sung-ki, examining Korean cinema history through screenings of “Festival.”
Originally reported by Variety →
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