The Asian Filmmaker of the Year is presented to an Asian filmmaker who has made exceptional contributions to the advancement of the Asian film industry and culture throughout the year. This year’s recipient is Michelle Yeoh, a trailblazer who has made film history through works including Yes, Madam! (1985), Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), Reign of Assassins (2010), Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022), and Wicked (2024).

Michelle YEOH
Born in 1962, Michelle Yeoh made her debut with Yes, Madam! (1985) and began to establish herself as a leading figure in Asian cinema. She rose to global prominence with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), followed by her Oscar-winning lead performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022). In 2026, she became the first Asian actress to receive the Honorary Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Her recent screen credits include A Haunting in Venice (2023), Wicked (2024), and Star Trek: Section 31 (2025), as she relentlessly expands her defining presence on the global stage.