By admin 
The prestigious Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) is set to illuminate its 37th edition with a dual celebration of cinematic excellence, honoring acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Kore-eda Hirokazu with its coveted Cinema Honorary Award and announcing the distinguished Korean director Yim Soon-rye as the jury head for its Asian Feature Film Competition. This year’s festival, scheduled to run from October 21 to November 1, promises a vibrant showcase of global cinema, with a particular focus on the rich tapestry of Asian filmmaking.
Kore-eda Hirokazu, a name synonymous with profound explorations of family, societal dynamics, and the human condition, will be a central figure at SGIFF. His attendance on October 24 will mark a significant moment with the Southeast Asia premiere of his latest film, "Look Back." This eagerly anticipated screening precedes the film’s official theatrical release in the region on October 29. Following the premiere, Kore-eda will engage in an "In Conversation With" dialogue session, a platform where he will be formally presented with the Cinema Honorary Award. This accolade is SGIFF’s highest recognition, reserved for filmmakers who have demonstrably left an indelible and lasting mark on the landscape of Asian cinema. The award serves as a testament to Kore-eda’s consistent artistic vision and his significant contributions to the medium.
Kore-eda’s directorial career has been characterized by an unwavering commitment to intimate, character-driven dramas that delve into the complexities of the family unit. His films often act as a magnifying glass, examining the subtle yet powerful friction that arises between individuals and the broader social structures within which they exist. His international breakthrough came in 2018 with "Shoplifters," a poignant and unflinching portrayal of a makeshift family living on the fringes of society. The film’s profound impact resonated globally, culminating in its win of the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival – a historic achievement as the first Japanese film to claim this prestigious prize in over two decades. This triumph solidified Kore-eda’s position on the international cinematic stage. His subsequent works, including the critically acclaimed "Broker" and the emotionally resonant "Monster," have continued to garner both commercial success and critical adulation, further cementing his reputation as one of Japan’s most influential and celebrated directors. Prior to these recent triumphs, Kore-eda had already established a significant body of work with films such as "Nobody Knows" and "Like Father, Like Son," both of which showcased his unique ability to capture the nuances of familial relationships and the quiet struggles of everyday life. His consistent ability to evoke empathy and provoke thought through his storytelling has made him a revered figure among filmmakers and audiences alike.
The film being honored with its Southeast Asia premiere, "Look Back," represents a significant milestone as the first live-action feature adaptation of any manga by the celebrated artist Fujimoto Tatsuki. The narrative of "Look Back" centers on Fujino, an elementary school student who finds her burgeoning confidence as her class’s star cartoonist shattered when she encounters Kyomoto, a reclusive classmate who exhibits a vastly superior artistic talent. What begins as a seemingly insurmountable rivalry between the two young artists soon morphs into an all-consuming obsession. The film chronicles their eventual connection and the forging of a deep friendship rooted in their shared passion for manga creation. However, their burgeoning creative partnership is tested when an opportunity to develop a serial manga arises, ultimately pulling them in different directions and forcing them to confront the complexities of ambition and individual paths. "Look Back" had previously competed for the Golden Lion at the prestigious Venice Film Festival, underscoring its artistic merit and its potential to engage audiences on a profound level. The film’s adaptation from a beloved manga source material, combined with Kore-eda’s sensitive direction, promises a compelling cinematic experience that explores themes of artistic passion, rivalry, and the enduring impact of shared creative journeys.
Complementing Kore-eda’s celebration, the festival will also see the esteemed Korean director Yim Soon-rye preside over the Asian Feature Film Competition jury. Yim, a filmmaker whose work has consistently pushed boundaries and explored pressing social issues, brings a wealth of experience and a distinctive perspective to her role. She studied filmmaking at the esteemed University of Paris 8, a formative period that undoubtedly shaped her artistic sensibilities. Her directorial debut, "Three Friends," released in 1996, immediately announced her as a significant voice in Korean cinema. She went on to direct a string of critically and commercially successful films, including the poignant "Waikiki Brothers," the immensely popular box office hit "Forever the Moment," which captured the nation’s imagination, "The Whistleblower," the critically acclaimed "Little Forest," and the intense thriller "The Point Men." Beyond her filmmaking career, Yim has demonstrated a deep commitment to social activism, dedicating 12 years to serving as president of an animal rights association. She also co-leads the Korean Center for Gender Equality in Film, actively working to foster a more equitable and inclusive environment within the film industry. Yim’s participation in SGIFF extends beyond her jury duties; she is also slated to speak at the SGIFF Industry Days on October 27, offering insights into her creative process and her vision for cinema. Her multifaceted engagement underscores her dedication to fostering dialogue and advancing the art of filmmaking.
This year’s SGIFF is also notable for the significant expansion of its industry arm, SGIFF Pro. The Industry Days program, a crucial platform for networking, collaboration, and professional development, has been extended from three to four days, offering an even richer array of opportunities for industry professionals. The expanded program will feature insightful talks from luminaries such as cinematographer Ashizawa Akiko, a recent recipient of the 2026 Pierre Angénieux Tribute at the Cannes Film Festival, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the art of cinematography. Additionally, filmmaker Fukada Koji will participate, presenting his Singapore co-production "Nagi Notes," which is set to screen in the festival’s Horizon section, highlighting international collaborations and emerging cinematic voices.
SGIFF Pro is introducing several new initiatives designed to foster innovation and connectivity within the film ecosystem. "Off Campus" is a novel four-day field trip initiative that will pair aspiring film school students with seasoned industry professionals, providing invaluable mentorship and practical experience. The "Pitching Forum" is designed to be a vital connector, aiming to bridge international projects with key decision-makers and potential local co-production partners, thereby reinforcing Singapore’s position as a burgeoning regional hub for film production and investment. Furthermore, "Parallax," a free, interdisciplinary sidebar, will explore the cutting edge of filmmaking, delving into the intersection of artificial intelligence and immersive technology. This forward-looking program will feature participants from leading organizations such as Amazon MGM Studios, SM Entertainment, Adobe, Largo.ai, and Ubac Studio, promising stimulating discussions and explorations of the future of cinematic creation.
Founded in 1987, SGIFF has a long-standing tradition of championing cinematic diversity and artistic excellence. The festival is meticulously organized by Singapore International Film Festival Ltd., a non-profit organization that receives crucial support from the Infocomm Media Development Authority, a testament to the city-state’s commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural landscape. SGIFF Pro, in its entirety, encompasses five key programs: the Industry Days conference, the Asian Producers Network, the Pitching Forum, Off Campus, and Parallax, collectively forming a comprehensive ecosystem designed to support and advance the film industry in Singapore and across Asia. The confluence of established masters like Kore-eda and Yim with innovative new initiatives and emerging talents promises that the 37th Singapore International Film Festival will be a landmark event, celebrating the past, present, and future of cinema.
