Taipei Gears Up for Sundance Film Festival Asia’s Return in August 2024
Short Summary:
Sundance Film Festival Asia returns to Taipei, Taiwan, from August 21-25, 2024, celebrating 40 years of the Sundance Institute's support for independent storytelling. The event includes film screenings, discussions, and a Short Film Competition exclusive to Taiwanese filmmakers, with a $50,000 NTD prize for the winner. Submissions are open until May 31, 2024.
The Sundance Institute, in collaboration with G2Go Entertainment, has officially announced the 2024 edition of Sundance Film Festival Asia, taking place in Taipei, Taiwan, from August 21 to 25. This event coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Sundance Film Festival in the United States, which is renowned for its dedication to showcasing new stories and supporting independent filmmakers.
This year, Sundance Film Festival Asia aims to build upon its successful inaugural event by extending a warm invitation to filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts for five days filled with film screenings, conversations, and celebrations. A highlight of the festival is the Short Film Competition, tailored exclusively for Taiwanese filmmakers, demonstrating the Sundance Institute's commitment to nurturing local talent and providing them with an international platform.
Joana Vicente, CEO of the Sundance Institute, and Eugene Hernandez, Festival Director, expressed their anticipation for the array of films that will be presented, especially those emerging from Taiwanese filmmakers, which are expected to add a rich layer of storytelling to the festival. Kevin Lin, Partner at G2Go Entertainment, echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of the festival in strengthening Taipei's role as a pivotal location for international cinematic discussions and collaborations.
The Short Film Competition, now open for submissions, offers Taiwanese filmmakers a chance to win a $50,000 NTD cash prize. Films selected by the jury, comprising Sundance Institute representatives including Kim Yutani, Heidi Zwicker, and Mike Plante, will be screened at the festival. Additionally, these films will be considered for inclusion in the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in Utah.
To participate, filmmakers must be Taiwanese citizens or residents, aged 18 or older, and can submit shorts across any genre, completed on or after January 1, 2023. The films must be between 3 to 15 minutes in length, with an entry fee of 310 NTD. The deadline for submissions is May 31, 2024.
For more details on submission guidelines and to enter the competition, filmmakers are encouraged to visit the official submission page at FilmFreeWay.
Sundance Film Festival Asia embodies the Sundance Institute's mission to champion independent storytelling globally. By bringing the festival to Taipei, Sundance not only celebrates the rich history and future of independent cinema but also solidifies the city's position as a crucial hub for cultural exchange and cinematic innovation.