Netflix War Epic “Uprising” to Launch Busan International Film Festival

This year’s Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), Asia’s largest film festival, is set to commence on Wednesday with a streaming-only film, marking a first for the event. The film, “Uprising,” directed by Kim Sang-man and featuring leading Korean actor Gang Dong-won, is one of the 224 entries competing at the festival which will run until October 11.

Produced by renowned filmmaker Park Chan-wook, known for his seminal work “Old Boy,” “Uprising” sets its narrative during the tumultuous Joseon Dynasty, telling the story of two friends who become foes amidst war. Park, who took on the roles of screenwriter and producer for this film, helped catapult Korean cinema to global acclaim with his earlier works.

The choice of a Netflix title for the opening has stirred debate within the South Korean film industry, traditionally a champion of indie films and emerging Asian talents. Critics, like film studio owner Kay Heeyoung Kim, express concerns that prioritizing streaming films might undermine traditional cinema and emerging filmmakers.

This year’s BIFF not only faces criticisms over its opening selection but also continues to deal with repercussions from last year’s resignation of festival director Huh Moon-yung over sexual misconduct allegations. Additionally, the festival is navigating a significant budget cut from the South Korean government.

Despite these challenges, BIFF will showcase 86 world premieres, totaling 15 more films than the previous year. The festival will also posthumously honor actor Lee Sun-kyun, known for “Parasite,” with screenings of six of his major works. Lee’s tragic death last year followed intense scrutiny by law enforcement over alleged drug use, sparking widespread controversy.

Japanese director Kiyoshi Kurosawa will be honored as this year’s Asian Filmmaker of the Year. Known for his impact on the horror genre, Kurosawa will present two new films at the festival.

The festival also anticipates premiering “RM: Right People, Wrong Place,” a documentary about BTS member RM, and “A Normal Family,” a psychological thriller by South Korean director Hur Jin-ho. These films, among others, highlight the diverse and rich offerings at this year’s BIFF, poised to captivate attendees like Chung, Yu Chieh from Taiwan, who expressed her high expectations for the event.

In addition to film screenings, BIFF’s Asian Contents and Film Market will focus on discussions about integrating AI in content production, with participation from major companies like South Korea’s CJ ENM, Chinese VOD service iQIYI, and Microsoft.