Zhang Lu, the acclaimed Chinese Korean director, has been appointed as the new dean of the Chanel x BIFF Asian Film Academy, a significant part of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). This appointment marks a notable milestone in Zhang’s illustrious career, which began in 2004 with his debut feature film “Tang Poetry.” The film garnered critical acclaim at both the Locarno and Vancouver film festivals, setting the stage for Zhang’s future successes.
Zhang’s filmography includes several notable works such as “Grain in Ear” (2005), which won the New Currents Award at Busan, “Desert Dream,” and the recent “The Shadowless Tower.” His films have been celebrated for their poignant storytelling and unique perspectives, earning him a respected place in the international film community. In addition to his filmmaking career, Zhang has also contributed to the academic field, having served as a professor at Yonsei University for eight years.
The Chanel x BIFF Asian Film Academy is a prestigious program that aims to nurture and develop emerging talents in the Asian film industry. The Academy’s 20-day curriculum, running from September 22nd to October 11th, offers an intensive training program for aspiring filmmakers. This year’s program will feature Indonesia’s Kamila Andini as the directing mentor and Urata Hideho as the cinematography mentor, providing participants with invaluable insights and guidance from industry veterans.
The Busan International Film Festival, one of Asia’s most significant film festivals, will take place from October 2nd to 11th, with the Asian Film Market running from October 5th to 8th. The festival is renowned for its diverse selection of films and its role in promoting Asian cinema on the global stage. Zhang Lu’s appointment as the dean of the Academy is expected to bring a fresh perspective and new energy to the program, further enhancing its reputation as a leading platform for emerging filmmakers.
Zhang’s journey in the film industry has been marked by a series of remarkable achievements. His film “Grain in Ear” not only won the New Currents Award at Busan but also received the Prix ACID du meilleur at the Cannes Film Festival and the Concorso PNC at the Pesaro Film Festival. His subsequent films, including “Desert Dream” and “Chongqing,” have been featured in major international film festivals, solidifying his status as a prominent filmmaker.
In addition to his filmmaking and academic pursuits, Zhang has been actively involved in various film festivals and industry events. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the film industry make him an ideal candidate to lead the Chanel x BIFF Asian Film Academy. Under his leadership, the Academy is expected to continue its tradition of excellence, providing a nurturing environment for the next generation of filmmakers.
The appointment of Zhang Lu as the dean of the Chanel x BIFF Asian Film Academy is a testament to his significant contributions to the film industry and his commitment to fostering new talent. His unique vision and dedication to storytelling will undoubtedly inspire and guide the Academy’s participants, helping them to develop their skills and achieve their creative potential.
The Busan International Film Festival has long been a platform for showcasing the best of Asian cinema, and the Chanel x BIFF Asian Film Academy plays a crucial role in this mission. By providing emerging filmmakers with the opportunity to learn from industry experts and gain hands-on experience, the Academy helps to cultivate the next generation of cinematic talent. Zhang Lu’s appointment as dean is a significant step in ensuring that the Academy continues to fulfill this important role.
As the film industry continues to evolve, the need for innovative and talented filmmakers is more critical than ever. The Chanel x BIFF Asian Film Academy, under the leadership of Zhang Lu, is well-positioned to meet this need, providing a supportive and dynamic environment for aspiring filmmakers. With Zhang at the helm, the Academy is set to continue its tradition of excellence, helping to shape the future of Asian cinema.
In conclusion, Zhang Lu’s appointment as the head of the Chanel x BIFF Asian Film Academy is a significant development for both the Academy and the Busan International Film Festival. His extensive experience, combined with his passion for storytelling and commitment to nurturing new talent, makes him an ideal leader for the Academy. As the new dean, Zhang is poised to make a lasting impact on the Academy and its participants, further enhancing its reputation as a leading platform for emerging filmmakers.
Source: Variety
