The Land of Morning Calm

Jury Comment The Land of Morning Calm demonstrates Park Ri-woong's impressive storytelling skills and ability for subtle emotional depth. The film explores the personal struggles of its characters while shedding light on the hardships of a rural coastal community. Through precise, deliberate pacing, Park navigates themes of economic uncertainty, loss, xenophobia, and societal prejudice, creating a narrative that never falters. The ensemble cast delivers terrific performances, portraying layered characters with nuance, while Park brings clarity to their inner turmoil and the broader social issues, resulting in a powerful, resonant drama.

MA – Cry of Silence

Jury Comment MA – Cry of Silence is honored for its courageous portrayal of resistance to historical and ongoing political challenges under Myanmar's political junta. Poetic and contemplative, using precise language and a clear understanding of the economy of means, the film illustrates both individual and collective awakening of female factory workers in solidarity and resistance in the face of being confined to an oppressive system and brutal working conditions. The Maw Naing's film powerfully advocates for human rights and dignity under pressure in a repressive regime, serving as an urgent call to action.