Filmasia 2024 Prague

Each year during the first week of December, Prague becomes a gathering place for fans of Asian cinema. Filmasia, a festival that has been bringing the best of Asian films to Czech audiences since 2005, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

For two decades, this festival has introduced both established names and dynamic newcomers in contemporary Asian cinema. This year, attendees can look forward to a selection of cinematic gems that have shone at international festivals and captured global audiences’ attention.

Since its inception, Filmasia has screened nearly 250 films from various Asian countries, including South Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand. Iconic directors such as Park Chan-wook, Kim Ki-duk, Wong Kar-wai, and Bong Joon-ho have all had their works showcased at the festival. As it closes its second decade, Filmasia is looking to the future, focusing on women directors and their perspectives on contemporary Asian cinema.

This year’s program highlights women directors who are redefining filmmaking not only in Asia but globally. The Directors section features four compelling films that demonstrate the bright future of Asian cinema. Show Me the Moon by Sasha Chuk, a heartfelt debut produced by Hong Kong legend Stanley Kwan, offers an intimate exploration of its protagonist’s inner world. The Taste of Sichuan Pepper by Heiward Mak is a sensitive drama born from her collaboration with star Sammi Cheng. Next Sohee by July Jung delivers an unflinching look at modern Korean society and the pressures on younger generations. The section concludes with Spring Pilgrimage, a melancholic tale of rebuilding after loss by Taiwanese filmmakers Wang Ping-Wen and Peng Tzu-Hui.

Female characters take center stage throughout this year’s festival, providing viewers with insights into three distinct worlds. Audiences can look forward to screenings of Wong Kar-wai’s iconic films Chungking Express and Fallen Angels shown together. Meanwhile, Salli, a Taiwanese romantic comedy, explores the world of online dating and offers fresh perspectives on modern relationships.

Special screenings will also feature the latest hits from Asian cinema. Horror fans can experience the brutal Exhuma, a Korean film that shocks even the most seasoned viewers. For those seeking something different, the festival presents the emotionally charged Evil Does Not Exist, an environmental drama by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, the acclaimed director of Drive My Car. Though vastly different, both films promise to leave a profound impact on audiences.

As tradition dictates, the festival will also include a showcase of student films, presenting the work of future Asian filmmakers.

Filmasia 2024 is a celebration of Asian cinema and the visionaries pushing the boundaries of film as an art form. Don’t miss this cinematic festival and join the celebration of 20 years of bringing the best of Asia to Czech screens!

Where: Bio Oko Cinema
When: December 5–10, 2024
Tickets: 160 CZK

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