The 28th Taipei Film Festival has officially unveiled the highly anticipated selection and esteemed jury lineup for its flagship International New Talent Competition, setting the stage for a compelling showcase of burgeoning cinematic artistry from across the globe. Ten groundbreaking films, meticulously chosen from a staggering 430 submissions, represent a diverse tapestry of narratives and directorial visions originating from twelve countries: Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada, Argentina, China, Hungary, Italy, Sweden, and Germany. These promising works will vie for the coveted Grand Prize and the Special Jury Prize, with the winners slated for announcement during the prestigious awards ceremony on June 30, marking a pivotal moment for these emerging filmmakers.
A Beacon for Emerging Cinematic Voices: The International New Talent Competition
Established as a cornerstone of the Taipei Film Festival, the International New Talent Competition serves as a vital platform dedicated to identifying and championing first and second-time feature filmmakers. Its mission is to bring fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling to international audiences, fostering a global dialogue around contemporary cinema. The rigorous selection process, which saw hundreds of entries distilled to a lean and impactful ten, underscores the competition’s commitment to curating a program of exceptional quality and thematic resonance. This year’s lineup is particularly notable for its geographical breadth and the profound social, cultural, and personal issues it explores, ranging from intimate family traumas to expansive political allegories and the complexities of coming-of-age in a rapidly changing world.
Taiwanese Cinema in the Spotlight: "I Blew Out the Candles Before Making a Wish"
Representing the host nation in this year’s fiercely competitive field is the Taiwanese entry, "I Blew Out the Candles Before Making a Wish," a collaborative directorial effort by CHAO Koi Wang and Yen HU. This film delves into the intricate lives of a down-on-his-luck Taiwanese youth and an unlikely duo—a Macanese grandmother and grandson—as they embark on a deceptive con operation within the atmospheric confines of an old city district. The narrative promises a poignant exploration of desperation, unlikely bonds, and the moral ambiguities of survival.
"I Blew Out the Candles Before Making a Wish" arrives in Taipei having already made its international debut at the Udine Far East Film Festival, garnering early attention. Its ensemble cast features some of Taiwan’s most celebrated talents, including Taipei Film Awards Best Actor Kai KO, who reportedly underwent a significant physical transformation by gaining 10kg for the role, delivering what critics are already hailing as one of the most nuanced performances of his career. He is joined by the venerable Golden Horse winner Kara WAI, also known as Jin Yan-ling, whose extensive filmography and critical acclaim add considerable weight to the production, alongside promising child actor MEI Jing-yan. This strong Taiwanese presence highlights the vibrant domestic film industry’s continued capacity to produce compelling stories that resonate on a global scale.
International Acclaim and Diverse Narratives: A Glimpse into the Global Lineup
The competition’s international selections are equally compelling, with several titles arriving in Taipei having already distinguished themselves on the prestigious global festival circuit.
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Asian Cinematic Prowess:
- From South Korea, director HAN Chang-lok’s "Funky Freaky Freaks" promises a visceral and timely examination of pressing social issues. The film, which earned the Special Jury Prize at the Busan International Film Festival, fearlessly tackles the dark realities of school bullying and deepfake crimes, utilizing gritty handheld cinematography to immerse viewers in its unsettling narrative.
- Japan is represented by "BURN," from three-time Sundance alumnus NAGAHISA Makoto. Starring the rising actress Nana MORI, the film follows a runaway girl’s surreal journey into a "utopian" love hotel in Kabukicho, offering a dreamlike and profound exploration of maturity and the often-unseen costs associated with it.
- Tibetan director Kangdrun presents "Linka Linka," a film that previously won Best Film in the Firebird Young Cinema Competition at the Hong Kong International Film Festival. Shot over three years, this insightful work offers an intimate portrayal of young women in Lhasa grappling with the intricate balance between cherished traditions and the inexorable pull of modernity, a theme deeply resonant in many contemporary societies.
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European and American Voices:
- Spanish director Lucía Aleñar Iglesias brings "Forastera," a film recognized with the FIPRESCI Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival. This evocative piece tells the story of a girl spending her summer on an island who begins to wear her late grandmother’s clothes and cook her recipes, gradually blurring the boundaries between personal memory, identity, reality, and performance.
- From the intersection of Canada and Hungary, filmmaker Sophy ROMVARI’s "Blue Heron" offers a tender yet powerful exploration of family trauma. The film uses a child’s innocent perspective to trace the invisible wounds and unspoken tensions within an immigrant family, shedding light on the quiet struggles often hidden beneath the surface.
- Argentine directorial duo Lorenzo FERRO and Lucas A. VIGNALE contribute "The River Train," a Berlinale Perspectives selection. This coming-of-age story follows a young boy’s solo train journey, a physical and emotional escape from the rigid discipline of strict dance training, symbolizing a quest for self-discovery and freedom.
- Spanish director Jaume CLARET MUXART’s "Strange River" transforms a simple cycling trip along the Danube into a poetic journey of awakening desire and profound family realization, weaving together personal growth with the natural beauty of the European landscape.
- The United Kingdom’s Oscar HUDSON enters the competition with "Straight Circle," the Grand Prize winner at Venice Critics’ Week. This film offers a potent political allegory, exploring the mirrored relationships and shared humanity of soldiers from two warring nations, prompting reflection on conflict and reconciliation.
- Also from the UK, Samuel ABRAHAMS’ mockumentary comedy "Lady," which earned him Best Director at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, stars the acclaimed Sian Clifford of "Fleabag." The film uses a magical-realist premise to explore the plight of individuals rendered invisible or marginalized by the overwhelming spectacle of reality television, a sharp critique of modern media culture.
The Esteemed International Jury and Additional Accolades
The formidable task of evaluating these ten exceptional films falls to an distinguished International Jury, presided over by Sabrina BARACETTI, the highly respected President of the Udine Far East Film Festival. Her extensive experience and deep understanding of global cinema make her an ideal leader for this panel. She is joined by a stellar lineup of industry luminaries: Taipei Film Awards Best Actress Nikki HSIEH, whose captivating performances have earned her widespread critical acclaim; Golden Horse Best Director Jun LI, recognized for his profound storytelling and masterful direction; LIEN Yi-chi, the celebrated director behind the hit series "Light the Night"; and Eiko MIZUNO-GRAY, the CEO of Loaded Films and a producer of the Oscar-nominated "Plan 75," whose expertise in international co-productions and artistic vision will be invaluable.
Beyond the main prizes, the festival will also recognize excellence with the Taiwan Director’s Association Recommendation Award, judged by an esteemed panel comprising Hou Chi-jan, Tsai Yin-chuan, and Li Yun-chan. Furthermore, the Audience Choice Award will provide festival-goers with the opportunity to cast their votes for their favorite film, adding a democratic dimension to the accolades. All winners across these categories will be revealed during the eagerly anticipated ceremony on June 30.
Beyond the Screen: The International New Talent Forum
Complementing the competitive screenings, the 28th Taipei Film Festival is committed to fostering dialogue and professional development within the filmmaking community. On June 30, the International New Talent Forum will convene, featuring several prominent figures from the competition itself: Golden Horse Best Director Jun LI, NAGAHISA Makoto of "BURN," and Samuel ABRAHAMS of "Lady." Centered on the crucial theme of "The Independent Filmmaking Path for New Directors," the forum will delve into a wide array of topics vital for emerging talents, including the nuances of regional culture in storytelling, practical experiences in film production, and strategic approaches to international development. This forum represents a significant opportunity for aspiring filmmakers to gain insights from established professionals and network with peers from around the world.
The Taipei Film Festival: A Legacy of Cinematic Excellence and Innovation
The Taipei Film Festival, now in its 28th year, has grown to become a cornerstone of Taiwan’s cultural landscape and a significant event on the international film festival circuit. Established in 1998, it has consistently championed both established and emerging talent, serving as a launchpad for countless careers and a vibrant showcase for both Taiwanese and global cinema. Its dual focus on the International New Talent Competition and the Taipei Film Awards (which celebrate domestic productions) underscores its commitment to nurturing local talent while simultaneously engaging with the broader international film community. Over the years, the festival has been instrumental in raising the profile of Taiwanese cinema, providing a crucial platform for filmmakers to connect with international critics, distributors, and audiences. The festival’s dedication to showcasing diverse narratives and supporting independent voices has cemented its reputation as a dynamic and influential cultural institution.
Speaking on the eve of the festival, a representative from the Taipei Film Festival organizing committee stated, "We are incredibly proud to present such an exceptional and diverse lineup for this year’s International New Talent Competition. The sheer talent and innovative spirit evident in these ten films from twelve countries truly underscore the vibrant future of global cinema. Our mission is to provide these emerging voices with a platform to be seen and heard, and to foster a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking among our audiences." Sabrina BARACETTI, President of the Udine Far East Film Festival and head of the jury, added, "It is an immense privilege to chair this esteemed jury. The films selected for this competition present a compelling dialogue on contemporary global issues through incredibly innovative storytelling. We look forward to a challenging yet inspiring deliberation process."
The 28th Taipei Film Festival will run from June 26 to July 11, 2026, offering a comprehensive program of screenings, discussions, and industry events. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience these compelling new works at key venues across the city, including Zhongshan Hall, SPOT-Huashan Cinema, and Eslite Art House. The festival promises an enriching and inspiring journey through the latest in global independent cinema, celebrating the vision and artistry of a new generation of filmmakers.
