The CinemAsia Film Festival 2025 is set to take place in Amsterdam from March 6 to 11, celebrating the best of contemporary Asian cinema. With a selection of 38 films from various countries, the festival offers a unique opportunity for movie enthusiasts to explore rich and diverse narratives.
Festival Highlights
The festival kicks off with the Dutch premiere of "Happyend", directed by Neo Sora, at the Eye Filmmuseum. A Japanese American drama, set in a near future Tokyo threatened by a devastating earthquake, the film follows two high school friends, Yuta and Kou, aspiring DJs whose bond is tested as Kou joins the fight against a manipulative far right government while Yuta clings to stability. Their diverging paths create a powerful narrative on friendship, activism and change. This critically acclaimed film promises to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling.
Happyend - Eye Filmmuseum - Thu 6 March, 19:30 + Q&A - Studio/K - Sun 9 March, 18:30 + Q&A - Rialto VU - Mon 10 March, 21:30
Dedicated to emerging filmmakers, “New Visions”, this section presents innovative works that challenge conventions and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary issues.
Love Lies 我談的那場戀愛 - Studio/K - Fri 7 March, 21:30 - Studio/K - Sat 8 March, 16:45
Pierce 刺心切骨 - Rialto VU - Sat 8 March, 18:45 - Studi/K - Sun 9 March, 21:15
Tale of the Land - Studio/K - Sat 9 March, 17:30 - Rialto De Pijp - Tue 11 March, 14:45
To wrap up the festival, "Fly me to the moon” will be screened, an acclaimed production that has already received positive reviews and is set to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
A Complete Cultural Experience
Beyond film screenings, CinemAsia offers a cultural immersion through its Asian food market, allowing attendees to savor authentic dishes from different regions. Special events such as “Queer Nongkrong” create inclusive spaces for discussions and celebrations of diversity within the Asian community.
Why Attend?
Attending the CinemAsia Film Festival is more than just watching films, it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, broaden your horizons, and support filmmakers who bring unique stories to a global audience. If you're passionate about cinema and eager to explore narratives beyond the mainstream, this festival is not to be missed.
Visit the official CinemAsia Film Festival website for more information.
Behind the scenes
CinemAsia is not just a film festival. Since 2006, its FilmLab program has given young Asian talents the opportunity to turn their stories into films, showcasing diverse realities on screen. This initiative highlights the festival's commitment to promoting emerging voices and enriching the film industry with authentic perspectives.
Mi- Mi Lee
A pioneering Taiwanese director, began her career as a script supervisor before directing and producing films like the Taiwanese Urban Female Trilogy, Known for bold storytelling and vivid female characters. She later became a key figure in Taiwan's television industry, directing primetime dramas for major networks.
Hong Sang-soo
A prolific South Korean director, is known for his minimalist, domestic realism, often featuring filmmakers as characters, long takes, and spontaneous scripts. His films, shot on modest budgets, explore everyday moments with a Rohmer-esque touch.
Sandra Ng Kwan-Yue
Is a Hong Kong actress known for her comic roles and collaborations with Stephen Chow, with over 100 films and TV shows. She won Best Actress at the 2003 Golden Horse Film Festival for Golden Chicken and has also worked as a TV and radio host.
Eddie Peng
Eddie Peng is a Taiwanese-Canadian actor, singer, and model known for films like Hear Me, Unbeatable, and Black Dog, which won at Cannes 2024.
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