▲ The captures of the movies for EX-Now 7 Korean Competition, Eteral Depth by Onyou Oh, Anatomy Class Chap.2 by Hana Yoo, ILLUSION by Youngmee Roh, Carbonpunk Love by TaeHwan Jeon, Arctic Garden by Ellie Kyungran HEO ⓒ Korean Film Archive

The Seoul Experimental Film and Video Festival (EXiS), the largest event of its kind in Asia, commenced on Thursday for an eight-day celebration of experimental films, documentaries, and moving images from across the globe.

This year, the competition program EX-Now will feature a total of 21 international experimental films, selected from 2,008 entries submitted from 79 countries. In the Korean section, 11 experimental films will compete. A jury will select three outstanding films from these 32 entries to receive awards.
 

▲ The captures of the movies for EX-Now 2 International Competition, Adrift Potentials by Leonardo PIRONDI, Nocturne for a forest by Catarina Vasconcelos, Kinderfilm by Total Refusal, The Secret Garden by Nour Ouayda, Myanmar Anatomy by Prapat Jiwarangsan ⓒ Korean Film Archive

EXiS has curated various programs for the festival. The Indi-visual section will focus on the works of Brazilian contemporary artist and screenwriter Ana Vaz, showcasing her 18 films through discussions. Vaz's works are known for their unique perspective on the intersection of nature and human existence, often exploring themes of colonialism and ecological destruction.

This year’s EX-Retro section will highlight the works of Japanese director Suzuki Shirouyasu, screening his films in Korea for the first time, including his renowned work “15 Days.” Suzuki’s films are celebrated for their innovative use of visual storytelling and deep exploration of human emotions and relationships.

▲ The poster of the festival
The festival’s Asia Forum will explore the history of alternative video culture and experimental cinema in Asia. This year, it has partnered with Hong Kong’s Jumping Frames, an international movement-image festival. Forum participants will delve into how performance and documentary intersect to expand the definitions of truth and reality, mediated through the body and the screen. This collaboration aims to foster greater understanding and appreciation of the diverse artistic practices in Asia.

Running through July 25, the festival will be held at the Korea Film Archive Cinematheque in Mapo-gu and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea in Jongno-gu. Both venues are known for their state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to promoting film and contemporary art. Tickets for the screenings are available on the Cinematheque and MMCA websites. Early booking is recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com