At the third edition of the Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF III) in 2025, many Asian cinematic works are having their first public screenings, both in the Asian Competition and the newly introduced Panorama of Asian Cinema sections.

Hosting world premieres and international debuts is a key hallmark of a prestigious film festival. This promising development for DANAFF III reflects growing recognition and trust among regional filmmakers, who are increasingly choosing the festival as the global launchpad for their new creations.

In the Asian Competition category, standout entries include “Family Secrets” featuring Kim Hye Eun, known for her roles in “Itaewon Class” and “Twenty Five, Twenty One.” The film tells a poignant story of healing within a family coping with the loss of a loved one. Its director, Lee Sang Hoon, has earned acclaim for works such as “Windmill” (2023) and “New Old Story” (2018).

Also making its international premiere is “How to forget you” by Japanese director Yu Sakudo, who previously won recognition at the Venice Film Festival. Known for his delicate romantic dramas, Sakudo’s new film promises a deeply emotional narrative.

Another highlight is “The Father” from Mongolia, depicting a resilient father who narrowly escapes death to welcome his firstborn son, beginning a 30-year journey of hope and determination.

From Southeast Asia, the Philippine thriller “Out of Order” tells the gripping story of a clumsy young lawyer forced to defend his estranged father, who stands accused of a brutal murder.

In the Panorama of Asian Cinema section, two notable Korean productions are having their international premieres at DANAFF: “My friend is a murderer” and “Extreme family.” Featuring acclaimed actors like Lee Il Hwa (“Reply 1988”) and Ji Seung Hyun (“Descendants of the Sun”), both films promise engaging experiences for viewers. Ji Seung Hyun will also attend the screening of “My friend is a murderer” to interact with audiences at DANAFF.

Japanese entries such as “Lotus Kitchen,” “Mommy,” “Souzoku,” and “Niihama Hikari Story: The Blue Lion” offer fresh slices of life - from family tales and social issues to explorations of modern culinary culture. These stories unfold through a variety of compelling and unique narrative styles, ranging from the familiar to the strange and suspenseful.

One of the most anticipated entries is “Love in Vietnam,” a co-production between India and Vietnam. The film not only explores a romantic storyline but also celebrates the natural beauty, people, and culture of Vietnam, aiming to present the country’s image to global audiences.

The production received strong support from both the Indian Consulate in Vietnam and the Vietnamese Consulate in India. Vietnamese provinces and cities contributed filming locations, infrastructure, administrative support, and industry personnel, making the cross-national collaboration possible.

This effort stems from the Vietnamese Film Development Promotion Association’s (VFDA) creation of the Production Attraction Index (PAI) in 2023, designed to boost international filmmaking in Vietnam.

“Love in Vietnam,” first introduced as a concept at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, will have its world premiere at DANAFF III. Directed by prominent Indian filmmaker Rahhat Shah Kazmi - known for “Country of Blind,” a past DANAFF Asian Competition entry - the film is produced by renowned industry figure Captain Rahul Bali.

Through the lens of a youthful, modern international crew, “Love in Vietnam” captures Vietnam’s landscapes with cinematic emotion and vibrancy. The film stars celebrated talents from both Vietnam and India, including Kha Ngan, Avneet Kaur, and Shantanu Maheshwari.

These titles are part of nearly 100 films featured across multiple programs at DANAFF III, all screened for free at Le Do, CGV, Galaxy, and Lotte theaters in Da Nang from June 29. Free tickets are available at Le Do Cinema starting June 24. Audiences also have the chance to meet and interact with actors and directors during the festival.

PV