“Lights, camera, action!
” The excitement is palpable as the prestigious third Danang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF III) gears up to showcase an array of cinematic jewels, including the Cannes-winning film, “
Black Dog.
” This year’s festival promises a vibrant tapestry of storytelling, culture, and creativity set against the picturesque backdrop of the coastal city from June 29 to July 5.
At the heart of the buzz is “
Black Dog,
” a poignant tale directed by Guan Hu that clinched the Un Certain Regard section at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival in 2024. The narrative unfolds around Lang, a reformed ex-convict portrayed by talented actor Eddie Peng. As Lang returns to his roots in Northwest China post-prison release, he embarks on a soul-stirring journey while working with a team tasked with clearing stray dogs ahead of the 2008 Olympics. Amidst this task, Lang forges an unexpected bond with a solitary black stray dog – a connection that resonates deeply with audiences.
Guan Hu’s directorial prowess shines through in “
Black Dog,
” capturing raw emotions and human connections with finesse. Known for his gritty realism movies like “
Mr Six” and “The Eight Hundred,” Guan Hu infuses “Black Dog” with depth and authenticity that tugs at viewers’ heartstrings. The film’s accolades speak volumes about its impact – bagging top honors at both Venice Film Festival and Settimana Internazionale della Critica.
As cinephiles eagerly anticipate DANAFF III, Ngo Phuong Lan – Chair of Vietnam Cinema Promotion Association – emphasizes the festival’s evolution into a grander spectacle this year. With an expanded duration spanning seven days and over 100 handpicked films on display, DANAFF III promises an immersive cinematic experience like never before.
The introduction of the Panorama of Asian Cinema adds another layer of richness to DANAFF III’s lineup. Showcasing standout Asian films celebrated globally alongside exclusive world premieres debuting at the festival, this segment aims to celebrate diverse cinematic voices from across Asia. Moreover, this year marks the inception of the Asian Film Critics Award within the Panorama program – recognizing excellence in filmmaking through a critical lens.
In parallel with film screenings, DANAFF III plays host to insightful seminars delving into pivotal themes shaping cinema landscapes. From exploring Vietnam war-themed films in homage to National Reunification’s 50th anniversary to spotlighting Korean cinema evolution through ‘Korean Cinema: Lessons from Global Success and Industrial Development,’ these discussions promise thought-provoking insights for enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
One groundbreaking addition this year is DANAFF Talents – offering emerging filmmakers a platform for training, networking, and project development. From acting workshops nurturing fresh talent to master classes led by industry stalwarts, DANAFF III aims to foster creativity and innovation within Asia’s burgeoning film fraternity.
Nguyen Thi Anh Thi envisions DANAFF as more than just a festival but aspires for it to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with renowned counterparts like Busan International Film Festival in South Korea – embodying excellence in cinematic celebration and cultural exchange right here on Vietnamese soil.
As curtains rise on Danang’s glittering cultural extravaganza at DANAFF III, movie buffs brace themselves for an unforgettable rendezvous with storytelling magic that transcends borders!
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