Latest news with #LaCinef
Korea Herald
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Heo Ga-young's 'First Summer' wins top honor at Cannes' La Cinef
KAFA graduate becomes first Korean filmmaker to win La Cinef's top prize Heo Ga-young's graduation short "First Summer" won first prize at La Cinef at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first Korean film to receive the top honor, festival organizers announced Thursday. The Korean Academy of Film Arts graduate beat 15 other student films selected from nearly 2,700 entries worldwide. Her 15-minute work pairs veteran actor Heo Jin with Jung In-ki in a story about an older woman charting new territory after years devoted to her family. Jury president Maren Ade presented the 15,000 euro ($17,000) first prize during Thursday's ceremony at Bunuel Theatre in Cannes. Beijing Film Academy's Qu Zhizheng took second for "12 Moments Before the Flag-Raising Ceremony," while Japan's Miki Tanaka and Estonia's Natalia Mirzoyan shared third. The winning films screen at Paris's Cinema du Pantheon on June 6. The film marks Korea's second selection this year alongside animator Jung Yu-mi's "Glasses" in Critics' Week. No Korean feature film made it into the festival's lineup this year. La Cinef, formerly Cinefondation, serves as the festival's dedicated platform for student films. It selects 15-20 short and medium-length films annually from film schools around the world. Korean entries have appeared regularly since 2001, with several securing runner-up and third-place positions. Most recently, Hwang Hye-in's thriller "Hole" won second prize in 2023. Yoon Dae-won's "Cicada" also took second place in 2021.
The Star
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Student-directed Chinese short honored at Cannes Film Festival
CANNES, France, May 22 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese short film, 12 Moments Before the Flag-raising Ceremony, directed by Qu Zhizheng of the Beijing Film Academy, has been awarded the Second Prize in the La Cinef section at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. The 16-minute film centers on a student at a Beijing secondary school who, though seen as a "model student" for his role as flag bearer during the school's weekly flag-raising ceremony, begins to question the significance of his position. While the story appears to depict a routine moment in campus life, it probes deeper into the structures of the educational system, unpacking the psychological weight and institutional expectations surrounding such rituals. The First Prize in the La Cinef section was awarded to the South Korean short film First Summer, while the Japanese short Ginger Boy and the Estonian short Winter in March shared the Third Prize. All four winning films were screened following the award ceremony in Cannes, with a special screening scheduled to take place in Paris on June 6. La Cinef, part of the Official Selection of the Cannes Film Festival, is dedicated to showcasing and supporting student films -- whether fiction or animation -- that exhibit emerging talent and creative promise, according to the organizers. This year's La Cinef section featured 16 student films, selected from 2,679 submissions representing 646 film schools around the world.
India Today
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Satyajit Ray film institute student at Cannes La Cinef: Want to be voice for Africans
A filmmaking African student, a zero-budget film, a chance encounter with a footballer, who became the lead, and then an entry into Cannes' La Cinef selection - that's how a dream became reality for Kokob Gebrehaweria. The Ethiopian student from Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute is at Cannes 2025 with his film 'A Clay Made Up of Clay.' In an exclusive chat with India Today, he spoke about his struggles and how he wants to be a voice for Africans through his shared that it all started with a long-take exercise in college where he had to helm a project. "It was an important one, and as an African, I wanted to make a story about the people there. It was a tough challenge, but I also wanted to have an African actor. And one day, while I was out with a friend, I met this man from Nigeria, Ibrahim. We got talking, and I found out he was in Kolkata to play football. I narrated my idea to him, and while he was apprehensive, he decided to do it for fun," the filmmaker long take, centred on a genocide war, was completed and submitted to various film festivals - where it received praise. Over time, Kokob and Ibrahim developed a close friendship. Ibrahim later confided in him about the injury that ended his football aspirations, how he missed home, and how he was lured to India with false promises. Despite playing passionately, he was paid poorly per match and struggled financially. His heartbreaking story inspired Kokob to create a fictional film based on his journey — and that's how 'A Doll Made Up of Clay' was "As I am an international student too, I realised how much he was missing home. He also spoke about his love for football and his love for the city, which made him pick odd jobs to survive. The film is a documentary on his life, and so many more such people. We rehearsed for 15 days and then shot the film. Also, it was a no-budget film, and hence, friends and students from different departments came together to make it. The film is about a boy who sells his father's land to come to Kolkata to pursue professional football, but a tragic injury makes him quit the game. And because he has no money, he's stuck there," Kokob shared about the added that there were seniors and mentors who had earlier been to Cannes, who guided him to enter the competition. He shared that he completed the process himself, and got selected. The filmmaker shared, "I was stunned and excited when I got the news. I cannot express in words the joy of representing India at that prestigious stage. This country is also home to me, as I have spent three years without going back to Africa. I am also proud of the fact that I will take Ethiopia to Cannes. I am so thankful to everyone involved with this film... we could pull this off only because of our love for films."advertisementWhen asked if he's evaluated what it takes to be selected at Cannes, Kokob Gebrehaweria said that foremostly, one needs to have a voice, and a very strong one. "And then a rooted story.. It's that easy. A lot of the students are scared to apply, so I will tell them to do that without fear. It's not about being selected but giving yourself a chance. Make something that's personal and very rooted, something around folk tales," he director further spoke about his aspirations and his vision with his films: "Both my works have an African connection, and I plan to have more Indo-African stories. While there are a few footballers who manage to earn well and send money back home, most of them are exploited. But given the weather, they play only half a year, and get paid per match. The ones who cannot often get into addiction. They cannot get medical help and have no money, and because they do not even know the language, they are tragically stuck. Most of them have run away from home, sold their assets. I want to be their voice and tell their stories in the hope that some organisation can come forward and help them. I may not have the financial ability to do it myself, but being an African, I want to be there for them."Talking about the Cannes La Cinef, the filmmaker shared that while he's positive about the outcome, his heart is already filled with gratitude. He also shared that he is working on another short film and plans to make a feature soon. At the film festival, he not only wishes to be recognised but also plans to network and find international producers. The director shared that he also wants to collaborate with programmers, distributors for his future projects. Kokob Gebrehaweria also shared that since he is an international student, he did not get any funds for his Cannes visit as per the policy. An agency did aid, but it was his family that supported him to be there, apart from his teachers and fellow students.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
India at Cannes 2025: All about new releases, debuts, jury members and more
The French Riviera is hosting the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival 2025 from May 13 to May 24. India's presence at the Cannes Film Festival is still being felt at the festival in significant ways, even after not securing a place in the main competition this year. India remains a part of the festival's esteemed lineup, with significant trailer debuts at the Bharat Pavilion, red carpet appearances, student film awards, and intriguing new screenings. Cannes 2025: Payal Kapadia joins the competition jury The Palme d'Or-winning picture that made headlines last year, directed by Payal Kapadia, is back in Cannes, but this time she is on the opposite side of the table. She has received an invitation to join the main competition jury. This year, French actress Juliette Binoche leads the jury, which also includes Halle Berry, Leila Slimani, Carlos Reygadas, Alba Rohrwacher, Jeremy Strong, Dieudo Hamadi, and Hong Sangsoo. Another significant milestone for Indian participation at the pinnacle of international filmmaking has been reached with Kapadia's admission. Cannes film festival 2025: Indian Entries 1. Neeraj Ghaywan's 'Homebound', which has been chosen for the 'Un Certain Regard' section, is one among the most eagerly awaited Indian submissions at Cannes this year. Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa feature in this atmospheric drama, which marks Ghaywan's return after his highly praised debut, Masaan. On May 21, the movie is expected to be shown. Karan Johar, Somen Mishra, Marijke DeSouza, Apoorva Mehta, Adar Poonawalla, and Melita Toscan du Plantier are co-producers of the movie. 2. With the film "A Doll Made Up of Clay," India is also represented in the La Cinef section of Cannes. Works from international film schools are shown in the La Cinef section. This category will feature a student production from the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), presenting the upcoming generation of Indian filmmakers on a distinguished international stage. 2025 Cannes film festival: 'Bharat Pavilion's film trailers and launches Earlier this week, the Bharat Pavilion in Cannes was formally launched, providing a venue for networking, cross-cultural interaction, and the display of new Indian ideas. Shekhar Kapur, the director, and actor Anupam Kher attended the opening ceremony. In addition, Kapur discussed India's Creative Economy: In Cinema and Beyond and released the poster for the next International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Several trailer releases, particularly from the Marathi film industry, have taken place in the Pavilion. • Friday (May 16)- Films like Snow Flower, Khalid Ka Shivaji, Sthal – The Match, and Juna Furniture had their trailers opened. • Saturday (May 17)- It featured teasers for The Love Ritual by American Underdog by Vishy Ayyar, Devendra Jadhav, and Tanvi: The Great, directed by Anupam Kher. • Sunday (May 18)- Trailers for Lost and Found in Kumbh, Mahamantra, Bhagodia, Echoes of Valour, and Charak are set to be displayed. • Monday (May 19)- An additional launch includes Murder too Close – Love too Far, Ashva: A White Horse's Neigh, Sabar Bonda, and Baksho Bondi. 2025 Cannes: Guneet Monga launches scholarship for women producers Under the banner of Women in Film India (WIF, India), the Indian branch of the international Women in Film network, award-winning producer Guneet Monga has started a special program at Cannes. The Marché du Film's recently launched Cannes Producers' Scholarship aims to link mid-career female producers with international business executives. In an effort to promote visibility, mentorship, and opportunity for Indian women in film, producers Rucha Pathak, Rabia Chopra, Tillotama Shome, and Dimpy Agrawal joined Monga at the announcement. Notable Indian celebs 'debut' at Cannes film festival 2025 This year, a number of popular Indian celebrities are attending the 78th Cannes Film Festival 2025 for the first time. Here are some of the new Indian celebs making their Cannes 2025 debuts, ranging from well-known industry icons to upcoming rising stars: Sharmila Tagore Sharmila Tagore, a veteran actor, went for the screening of Satyajit Ray's 1970 film, Aranyer Din Ratri at the Cannes Film Festival 2025. The Bengali film, Days and Nights in the Forest, was restored in English by American filmmaker Wes Anderson, and its 4K version was screened at the Cannes Classics section of the film festival. Simi Garewal In honor of the restored version of the classic Satyajit Ray movie, Aranyer Din Ratri, in which she appeared, veteran actor and talk show host Simi Garewal is visiting the festival this year. On Monday, May 19, a special screening of The Film Foundation was scheduled. Alia Bhatt At Cannes, Bollywood star Alia Bhatt is expected to make her much awaited debut. Her first appearance on the red carpet at the esteemed festival is eagerly awaited by her fans. Nitanshi Goel This year, Nitanshi Goel, the Laapataa Ladies star, also debuted at Cannes. This past Friday, the young actor, who was representing L'Oréal Paris, attracted attention on the red carpet and gave India's attendance at the festival a more youthful feel. Aastha Gill On Friday, singer Aastha Gill made a stunning entrance on the red carpet at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Gill grabbed the attention of guests by wearing a shining star yet sophisticated outfit that demonstrated both her musical prowess and her fashion-forward personality. Shalini Passi Bollywood Wives' Fabulous Lives fame, social activist and artist Shalini Passi will be making her Cannes debut this year. She will be joined on the carpet by Padma Shri winner Paresh Maity, one of the most well-known contemporary artists in India. Parul Gulati Parul Gulati, an actress and businesswoman, made her red carpet debut at the international premiere of Eddington, directed by Ari Aster. On the other hand, Parul owned a company that sold hair extensions. She looked elegant in a garment that was specially created for her. Notably, she designed her own dress, which was made entirely of hair. Is Nancy Tyagi's outfit copied at the Cannes film festival 2025? Nancy, an influencer-designer, walked the red carpet at Cannes 2025 wearing a minidress adorned with pearls. The outfit included structural panels, crystal fringes, and silver-beige tones. She wore it with a long-trail cape with puffy shoulders. She added that the dress's creation took a whole month. Meanwhile, on May 18 Neha Bhasin, a singer and former Bigg Boss OTT contestant, has accused Tyagi of fabricating her Cannes 2025 costume design. Nancy claimed to have made the dress herself, but Neha and a fashion store in Mumbai said she had purchased it. The Source Bombay's owner, Surbhi Gupta, told The Free Press Journal that Nancy Tyagi had indeed purchased the outfit from them. Gupta added that shortly before Cannes 2025, Nancy paid ₹25,000 for the dress. On May 18, Neha posted side-by-side pictures of herself and Nancy wearing what appeared to be the same corset on her Instagram Stories, highlighting the problem. Cannes film festival 2025: When and where to watch? On May 13 at 7:15 PM local time (10:45 PM IST), the Cannes Film Festival 2025 opening ceremony featured the Palme d'Or d'Honneur. Live updates, behind-the-scenes pictures, and real-time red carpet video will also be available on the festival's official Instagram and X (previously Twitter) profiles. Live streaming of the entire event will be accessible 24/7 via: • The Festival de Cannes official YouTube channel • The official Festival de Cannes website • Mubi • FilmyDoo (from 2:30 PM IST for Indian users).
Hindustan Times
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
India's state-run film schools continue their dream run in Cannes
Last summer, a diploma film from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune lit up the Cannes Film Festival with a Banjara sunrise folk tale, winning the top prize for film school entries across the world. As the curtain went up on the Cannes festival on May 13, another film school from India is hoping it could repeat FTII's remarkable success story this year. A year after FTII's Sunflowers Were the First to Know directed by Chidananda S Naik won the First Prize in the Cannes festival's La Cinef competition for film schools, the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), Kolkata is in contention for the 15,000-euro (about 14 lakh rupees) top prize. A Doll Made Up of Clay by SRFTI student Kokob Gebrehaweria Tesfay is part of La Cinef, which has 16 entries this year. Shot in Kolkata, the 24-minute film tells the story of a footballer from Nigeria playing a seven-a-side tournament in the city struggling to survive after injuries keep him out of the matches. The SRFTI film, which was selected to La Cinef from 2,700 entries submitted by film schools all over the world, continues a dream run by India's film schools at the Cannes Film Festival. The participation of India at the Cannes La Cinef for the second successive year also tells the success story of India's state-run film schools modelled on the erstwhile Soviet Union's. The FTII, founded in 1960, and SRFTI, created in 1996, were modelled on the Russian State University of Cinematography (VGIK), the world's oldest film school founded in 1919 where legendary Russian filmmakers like Sergie Eisenstein and Sergie Bondarchuk were once professors. "The FTII opens up a student's world to various kinds of cinema," says FTII alumnus Ranabir Das, the cinematographer of last year's Cannes Grand Prix winner, All We Imagine As Light, directed by Payal Kapadia, who is also a former FTII student. "Students themselves often help each other understand the world they come from better with collective and individual past experiences. This would naturally lead to unique voices coming out of the institute," Das told The Hindustan Times at the Cannes Film Festival. Two films from India's film schools have won the top prize at La Cinef in the past five years. In 2020, FTII student Ashmita Guha Neogi's CatDog bagged La Cinef's first prize, a feat repeated by Mysore-born Naik, also a student of FTII, last year. Naik's Sunflowers Were the First to Know was based on a Banjara folktale in Kannada about an elderly woman stealing her village rooster plunging the village into darkness. In 2023, Yudhajit Basu, another FTII student, competed in Cannes' La Cinef with his diploma film, Nehemich, which explored the age-old practice of banishing menstruating women to dingy mud huts in parts of rural India. Previous SRFTI diploma films to compete in the film school category include Bengali filmmaker Anirban Dutta's Tetris in 2006 and Darjeeling-born filmmaker Saurav Rai's Gudh in 2016. The journey of India's film schools in Cannes began in 2002 when Khoj, an SRFTI diploma film by Tridib Poddar, was selected to the film school competition, previously called Cinéfondation. Kapadia would join the fray later in 2017 when her own diploma film, Afternoon Clouds, became the first FTII production to be selected to the Cannes film school competition. Founded in 1998, the Cannes film school competition is a highlight of the festival, drawing entries from top film institutes in the world. Incidentally, the second prize in the inaugural Cannes film school competition was won by Indian-origin British filmmaker Asif Kapadia for his diploma film (The Sheep Thief), an entry of the Royal College of Art, London, shot in Rajasthan. "It was a big experience for me as a budding filmmaker suddenly finding myself at one of the most influential film festivals in the world," says Poddar, a member of the second batch of students at SRFTI, who is now a professor of direction and scriptwriting at the institute. "The late Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami was on the jury of the film school and short film competition that year. He hugged me saying he liked my film. That was a huge reward for me," adds Poddar. Khoj went on to win the Best First Film of a Director at the Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) in 2004. "Indian film schools help cultivate a sense of regional culture and expression in students," explains Poddar about the depth of storytelling in Indian film school productions because of the camaraderie between students coming to the campus from the corners of the country. "We tell stories from Kashmir to Kerala and Jharkhand to Mumbai," he adds. "At the film institute, I can do what I imagine, whether it is drama, documentary, political, Indian or African," says Tesfay, an international student of direction and scriptwriting at the SRFTI, who found instant support for his story of a Nigerian football player's struggle in Kolkata from fellow students. "We have good creative minds on the campus ready to collaborate. There are no restrictions or limits on ideas," adds Kolkata-born Soham Pal, the SRFTI student and sound recordist for A Doll Made Up of Clay directed by Tesfay. "At the film institute we communicate with peers. There are discussions on cinema happening every day. It changes your perspective and broadens your vision about the world," says Vinod Kumar, a Jalandhar, Punjab-born student of cinematography at the SRFTI, who shot A Doll Made Up of Clay. "A film's story is not just about a character, but it is also about geography, politics, economics and society."
