Busan International Film Festival Master Class Features Na Hong Jin, Lav Diaz, Bertrand Mandico and Rintaro

Master Class Lineup at the 31st Busan International Film Festival

The 31st edition of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has announced a compelling roster for its Master Class series. The program, which runs alongside Cine Class and Special Talk events, invites four internationally recognised directors to share insights on their creative processes, industry challenges and the future of cinema. By gathering talent from South Korea, the Philippines, France and Japan, the festival underscores its commitment to a truly global dialogue.

Na Hong Jin

Career highlights

South Korean filmmaker Na Hong Jin first attracted worldwide attention with the 2022 thriller Hope. The film’s tense atmosphere and precise editing earned nominations at major festivals and solidified Na’s reputation as a master of suspense. Earlier works such as The Wailing and The Outlaws demonstrated a consistent interest in social anxiety and moral ambiguity.

What he will discuss

In his Master Class session, Na plans to trace the origins of his visual language. He will examine how personal experiences, Korean folklore and contemporary news stories converge in his storytelling. Participants can expect a detailed breakdown of storyboard techniques, sound design choices and the role of location scouting in building tension.

Lav Diaz

Filipino auteur profile

Lav Diaz stands as one of the most influential voices in Philippine cinema. Known for films that exceed four hours, Diaz uses long takes to explore history, memory and social justice. His works such as Norte, the End of History and The Woman Who Left have garnered awards at Cannes and Venice, positioning him as a champion of slow cinema.

Focus of his session

Diaz’s Master Class will centre on the relationship between narrative patience and political commentary. He intends to share practical advice on budgeting ultra‑long productions, collaborating with non‑professional actors and navigating censorship. The session will also feature a Q&A where emerging filmmakers can ask about preserving artistic integrity in commercial markets.

Bertrand Mandico

French visionary

Bertrand Mandico emerged from the French experimental scene with a distinct visual style that blends surrealism and lyrical storytelling. Films like Sicilia! and Mutants showcase his penchant for bright colour palettes, unconventional casting and narrative loops that challenge linear perception.

Session themes

Mandico will discuss the construction of fantastical worlds on modest budgets. Topics include the use of practical effects, collaborative script development with actors and the importance of maintaining a playful tone while addressing serious subjects. He will also highlight his recent work that explores gender fluidity through mythic allegory.

Rintaro

Japanese animation pioneer

Rintaro, celebrated for his contributions to classic anime series such as Metropolis and Galaxy Express 999, has shaped the visual language of Japanese animation for decades. His meticulous approach to hand‑drawn animation and his willingness to experiment with narrative structure have earned him a place among the medium’s most respected creators.

Talk content

Rintaro’s Master Class will focus on the evolution of animation techniques from cel‑based processes to digital workflows. He will share anecdotes about collaborating with legendary studios, preserving the tactile quality of hand‑drawn frames, and mentoring new generations of animators. Attendees will gain insight into storyboarding for long‑form projects and the balance between artistic ambition and production timelines.

How the Master Class fits into Busan’s broader programming

BIFF’s Master Class series complements the festival’s competitive sections by providing a space for deep artistic exchange. While the main slate showcases premieres and award contenders, the Master Class invites audiences to engage directly with creators. This format aligns with the festival’s mission to nurture talent across Asia and beyond, offering networking opportunities that extend beyond the screening rooms.

What audiences can expect

First‑hand accounts of navigating international co‑production landscapes.
Practical demonstrations of script development, visual planning and post‑production workflows.
Insights into cultural specificity and universal storytelling techniques.
Opportunities to ask targeted questions during interactive Q&A segments.
Access to curated reading lists and resource guides shared by each director.

For film students, independent producers and seasoned professionals alike, the Master Class offers a rare chance to learn from four distinct cinematic traditions. The blend of thriller, slow cinema, experimental narrative and animation ensures that each session delivers fresh perspectives while reinforcing the festival’s reputation as a hub of artistic innovation.

To learn more about the festival schedule and ticketing, visit the official Busan International Film Festival website. Further information on each director’s filmography can be found on reputable film databases and cultural institutions.

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