Da Nang Asian Film Festival 2025 opens with grand ceremony

Organised under the directive of the Da Nang City People’s Committee and co-hosted by the city’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Viet Nam Film Development Association (VFDA), the event runs from June 29 to July 5.

This year’s edition sees notable expansion in both scale and programming, featuring over 100 films and 200 screenings—double that of previous years.

The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Politburo member Prof. Dr. Nguyen Xuan Thang, Director of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, and Chairman of the Central Theoretical Council; Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung; and UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay praised DANAFF as a vibrant platform that amplifies Asian voices and strengthens international cultural exchange, describing Da Nang as an emerging hub of creativity.

In his speech, Prof. Dr. Thang highlighted the professionalism and artistic value of the festival, emphasising its role in shaping a modern, humanistic Vietnamese cinema with global integration. He underscored the significance of public-private cooperation in expanding cultural production.

Chairman of Da Nang City People’s Committee Le Trung Chinh reaffirmed the city's vision to become a leading centre for creative industries and film in Southeast Asia, calling cinema both an art and an economic catalyst.

A new feature this year, "DANAFF Talents," nurtures young filmmakers through training and project development. Top projects will receive support from France’s CNC and the Motion Picture Association.

DANAFF 2025 also honoured director Im Kwon-Taek from the Republic of Korea with a lifetime achievement award. Although absent due to health reasons, his legacy was celebrated as part of the festival’s commitment to recognising cinematic excellence across the region.