In a significant move highlighting Asian cinematic excellence, the Asian Film Awards Academy has announced an impressive lineup for its 19th edition. The event will feature masterclasses by notable figures such as Hwang Dong-hyuk, the mastermind behind Netflix’s global sensation “Squid Game,” acclaimed Chinese filmmaker Jia Zhangke, and the renowned actor Zhang Ziyi. This year’s program promises to offer an enriching experience for film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, emphasizing the diverse and dynamic nature of Asian cinema.
The Asian Film Awards Academy, in collaboration with the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency and the Film Development Fund, will host these masterclasses on March 15 at the Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui district. The program spans acting, auteur filmmaking, and series creation, providing a comprehensive perspective on contemporary cinema.
Established by the Busan, Hong Kong, and Tokyo international film festivals, the Asian Film Awards Academy seeks to honor excellence in Asian film and elevate the region’s cinematic talent on the global stage.
This year, the academy will forgo competitive award categories, instead presenting special honors in a streamlined and respectful manner. This decision reflects Hong Kong’s government recommendations for minimalistic public events after a tragic fire last year that resulted in over 150 fatalities.
Hwang Dong-hyuk will lead a masterclass that delves into his creative evolution—ranging from social dramas like “Silenced” to the comedic “Miss Granny.” His session will explore how his dedication ultimately led to the creation of “Squid Game,” a series that resonated worldwide with its themes of class struggle and survival.
Jia Zhangke, recognized for his subtle realism in films such as “Pickpocket,” “Platform,” and “Still Life,” will share his cinematic philosophy. With regular appearances at prestigious festivals like Venice, Cannes, and Berlin, Jia has dedicated his career to portraying the evolving lives within China.
Zhang Ziyi’s session will coincide with the awards ceremony, focusing on her character-building techniques and efforts to broaden the representation of Chinese actors on the international stage. Known for her roles in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and “The Grandmaster,” Zhang has also judged at major film festivals.
The event will feature the introduction of three Youth Ambassadors: Thai actor Phiravich Attachitsataporn (Mean), Hong Kong’s Natalie Hsu, and Taiwan’s Kent Tsai. These emerging talents underscore the vibrant future of Asian cinema.
Since 2023, the Asian Film Awards’ programming has garnered significant interest, with screenings and talks captivating audiences. This year’s schedule will also include Asian Cinerama and In Conversation events, with more details forthcoming.
