The CinemAsia Film Festival is gearing up for its 17th edition, taking place from March 6-11, 2025, in Amsterdam. With Darunee Terdtoontaveedej stepping in as the new Artistic Director, the festival promises to push boundaries and showcase even more diverse and powerful stories from across Asia.
Terdtoontaveedej, a seasoned curator with experience at prestigious festivals like the International Film Festival Rotterdam and Singapore International Film Festival, brings a fresh vision to CinemAsia. Having been part of the festival since 2018, Darunee is set to shape a new chapter in CinemAsia’s legacy, working alongside Managing Director Yuki Gomez, who joined the team last year.
The 2025 edition will continue to honor the festival’s commitment to amplifying Asian voices. This year’s program will include a dynamic lineup across several sections:
New Visions: Discover the latest debut works from emerging Asian filmmakers.
Horizons: Explore the diversity of contemporary Asian cinema, from blockbusters to indie gems.
Pioneers: Celebrate the icons and restored classics that have defined Asian cinema.
Short Films: Engage with impactful narratives from around the world.
Beyond the films, attendees can enjoy the festival’s exciting side events like CinemAsia PRO, a platform for emerging talent, Queer Nongkrong, a space for queer diasporic communities, and a vibrant Food Market showcasing Asia’s culinary delights. Of course, Karaoke Night remains a crowd favorite, offering a high-energy celebration of pop culture and togetherness.
With its roots in cultural representation and a focus on authentic storytelling, CinemAsia remains the only Asian film festival in Europe run by individuals with diverse Asian backgrounds, ensuring that every film and event reflects the true essence of the region without falling into clichés.
CinemAsia isn’t just a film festival—it’s a celebration of Asia’s diverse cultures, experiences, and voices, offering a space for connection, discovery, and reflection.
