The recently concluded Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema celebrated its 30th edition by showcasing a diverse range of films from across Asia. Organized by Martine and Jean-Marc Therouanne, the festival took place from February 6 to 13 and featured a compelling lineup of movies that captivated both audiences and the esteemed international jury.
One of the highlights of the festival was the posthumous recognition of Pema Tseden's 'Snow Leopard' from China. Tseden, also known as Wanmacaidan, unfortunately passed away last year at the age of 53. His film not only won the prestigious Golden Cyclo, the festival's top prize, but also earned the National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilizations (INALCO) jury prize. Moreover, actor Tseten Tashi was acknowledged with a jury special mention for his outstanding performance in the film. This recognition pays tribute to Tseden's talent and legacy as a filmmaker.
Another triumph at the festival was Kenzhebek Shaikakov's 'Scream' from Kazakhstan, which received the grand jury award. In addition to this coveted honor, the film was also bestowed with the NETPAC award and the Mark Haaz award. Orynbek Shaimaganbetovand and Arnur Akram, two actors from 'Scream,' received a well-deserved jury prize special mention for their exceptional portrayals. Meanwhile, 'The Spark' by Rajesh Jala from India shared the Mark Haaz award with 'Scream,' and the film critics' award bestowed a special mention upon it.
Thailand's 'Solids by The Seashore,' directed by Patiparn Boontarig, earned the jury prize at Vesoul International Film Festival. Furthermore, it secured the INALCO favorite award, proving its strong impact on both the jury and the festival-goers. The festival also recognized 'Sunday' from Uzbekistan as the winner of the film critics' award, which highlighted its excellence from a critical perspective. Additionally, 'Sunday' won the audience award for a fiction film, further solidifying its popularity among the viewers.
In the documentary film category, 'Age of Reason' from Nepal, directed by Shuvangi Khadka, emerged as the audience favorite, securing the audience award. The thought-provoking content and powerful storytelling resonated with viewers, making it a worthy recipient of this accolade.
The festival also celebrated the works of Taiwanese cinema and Malayalam-language cinema from the southern Indian state of Kerala. This year's edition of the Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema showcased a vast array of cinematic brilliance and offered a platform for filmmakers to have their voices heard and celebrated on an international stage.
The international jury, presided over by renowned Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf, consisted of esteemed members such as Taiwanese filmmaker Zero Chou, Iranian actor Fatemeh Motamed-Arya, and Japanese actor Shogen. In recognition of their outstanding contributions to the world of cinema, honorary Golden Cyclos were awarded to Zero Chou and Taiwanese sound engineer Tu Du-chih.
As the curtain falls on its 30th edition, the Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema has once again proven to be a platform for celebrating the rich cultural diversity and artistic excellence of Asian films. The festival not only recognizes the outstanding achievements of established filmmakers but also provides a space for emerging talents to shine and connect with audiences from all corners of the world.
