The round up for the New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) has finally been revealed. Now in its 15th year, the NYAFF will showcase 51 Asian films including Adam Tsuei's black comedy entitled "The Tenants," Philippine director Ralston Jover's Hamog "Haze," and Kayuya Shiraishi's crime film "Twisted Justice."
It is anticipated that more than 30 international filmmakers and celebrities from all over Asia will be making in-person appearances during the festival. NYAFF Executive Director Samuel Jemier has noted that this year's festival will showcase a broader range of Asian Cinema. He highlighted a few, including noir films that focus on social issues emerging in Southeast Asian countries.
At the event, John Lloyd Cruz will receive the Star Asia Award for his prolific role in the film "Honor Thy Father." Cruz is the first Filipino and Southeast Asian to receive the award. He will be the 3rd Star Awardee. The other two are box office stars Mirian Yeun from Hong Kong and Lee Byung-Hun from South Korea.
Meanwhile, Slumdog Millionaire's famous composer A.R Rahman will be honored for receiving the Fukuoka Prize. This prestigious award is given to individuals who have contributed to the promotion and preservation of Asian diversity.
Famous film maker Wong Kar Wai will officially venture in his first web series after signing a six-year contract with China's Huanxi Media Group. He and co-filmmaker Peter Ho-sun Chan reached a deal to created two web series. Wai and Chan have also acquired shareholding rights, which will allow them to have investment rights. The formal announcement of the deal will be made during the festival.
The festival is set to take place from June 22 to July 5 at the Film Society and from July 6 to 9 at the SVA Theater located at 333 West 23rd Street.
