The ocean of cinema brings a fresh wave of films every year. This edition of The Kinder Programmer covers a rich spectrum of cinema—ranging from highly anticipated works by visionary directors to star-studded casts, nuanced picks for cinephiles, and hidden gems that exceed all expectations. You just might discover your next all-time favorite in this vast ocean of cinema at the 31st Busan International Film Festival.

Some directors’ names can be a promise of quality. Andrew Haigh’s A Long Winter quietly contemplates a profound sense of solitude and emotional resonance hidden even among family. Ira Sachs’s The Man I Love intimately captures the complex dynamics of characters navigating the 80s AIDS crisis. Veteran Asian American auteur Wayne Wang’s Diary of a Mad Old Man sharply dissects human obsession at the edge of life and desire with his signature elegance. Meanwhile, Barbara Kopple’s documentary Union Town brings raw realism to the screen, capturing the fierce reality of working-class lives with a sharp, passionate eye.

For those who love powerful ensemble performances, these standout cast lineups will deliver. Kanai Ko’s The Gate of Murder maximizes dramatic tension through tight-knit, immersive performances from Yamazaki Kento and Matsushita Kouhei. Fujii Michihito’s You, Like a Star shines through the subtle emotional depth of its lead actors Yokohama Ryusei and Hirose Suzu. Elegance Bratton’s By Any Means commands attention with overwhelming energy and performances from Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Mark Wahlberg, that completely devour the characters. Anthony Maras’s Pressure keeps audiences glued to the screen with the tight, high-density chemistry of its ensemble cast including Andrew Scott and Brendan Fraser.

Club Kid - Jordan FIRSTMAN

Everybody Digs Bill Evans - Grant GEE

These selections are curated for film lovers seeking delicate storytelling and lasting impressions. Jordan Firstman’s Club Kid delivers a quiet emotional resonance through relationship dynamics evocative of Aftersun. Fans of Columbus and After Yang will find themselves quietly thrilled by Kogonada’s latest work, zi. Meanwhile, Grant Gee’s Everybody Digs Bill Evans delves deep into the legendary jazz pianist’s life and music, captivating both music fans and movie lovers alike.

Finally, here are the hidden treasures you shouldn't miss. Kieron J WALSH’s Skintown instantly hooks the audience, building toward an explosive emotional climax through an unexpected plot twist. Rhys Marc Jones’s Black Church Bay delivers a chilling, precise character study of its protagonist’s descent, leaving a heavy and unforgettable impact.

May you embark on your own memorable cinematic journey this autumn, surrounded by the emotion, intensity, and wonder unfolding across the big screen.

The 31st Busan International Film Festival Ticket Reservation

September 11 (Fri), 17:00 KST

Screening Schedule Announcement

September 17 (Thu), 14:00 KST

Opening/Closing Ceremony / Open Cinema (Outdoor Screenings) /

Midnight Passion (Late-Night Screenings) / Actors’ House / Community BIFF

September 21 (Mon), 14:00 KST

General Screenings / Master Class / Cine Class