General Statement of Korean Competition ?

As the international members of the jury, it was interesting to discover the country of Korea as well as the stories in the films.

The films that we most liked took bold choices and utilized a wide range of filmmaking tools. Not only dialogue, but location, framing, music choices and production design. Don’t be afraid of short length, being imperfect or building your own cinematic vision of the world.

We have seen a lot of films by filmmakers we hope will make more short films. Despite what is happening in Korean society and worldwide right now, filmmakers must keep dreaming.

Grand Prix for Best Picture

My Father’s Room - Jang Nari

Congratulations on this bold vision. This film is an example of concise emotive storytelling that makes full use of the cinematic language. A sensitive treatment of a delicate subject put under the microscope.

Excellence Award for Best Picture

Line - Shin Jihoon

This tense and engaging story held our attention throughout. The intimate shooting style, and the way lead actor delivers a sympathetic performance despite his malicious intent, demonstrates a high level of skill in direction.

Jury Prize

The Silence of the Dogs - Park Hyuncheol

The jury was impressed by the ambitious scope and sensitive handling of this truly Korean story. The way the director managed to combine two disparate stories into a film that is more than just the sum of its parts.

Best Acting Award

The Regular Hire- Jo Dongin (Actor)

The jury were unanimous in commending the subtle performance of this actor that is at the heart of this story. It is easy to over play a role, but harder to deliver a quieter and more nuanced characterization.

Special Mention

Nagayo - Cha Jeongyoon

There were many aspects of this film the jury enjoyed, particularly the performance by the lead actress, and the use of music. We would like to see future work by this filmmaker that is more concise and takes creative risks.

Busan Cinephile Award

Home without Me - Kim Hyunjung

Home without Meis a film that evokes empathy in the audience with its detailed depiction of conflicts and reconciliation that can occur in a household, analog sentimentality, and the outstanding performances of the actors.