SIFF unveils Asian New Talent Awards

The Asian New Talent Awards for the 22nd Shanghai International Film Festival were held at the Shanghai Da Ning Theatre on Friday, June 21, 2019. 14 films were shortlisted for the awards across 6 categories.

The Asian New Talent Awards at the 22nd Shanghai International Film Festival being held at the Shanghai Da Ning Theatre, June 21, 2019. [Photo: China Plus]

Best Film went to Chinese film "To Live To Sing." Japanese director Yuko Hakota won Best Director for her film "Blue Hour." Malaysian actor Yuan Teng starring in "The Paradise" took Best Actor. Chinese actress Zhao Xiaoli took home Best Actress for her portrayal of a Sichuan Opera actor in "To Live to Sing."

Zhao is a trained Sichuan Opera actor.

"I'd like to thank the Shanghai International Film Festival, our director, producer Deng Jie for introducing Sichuan Opera to the outside world. It helps showcase the beauty of the opera," said Zhao.

Yosef Ragamuda behind the Indonesian film "Mountain Song" won Best Script Writer.

Venumadhav Gajjala with Indian film "Moan" won Best Cinematographer.

Celebrated Chinese mainland director Ning Hao was the Jury Chair of the Asian New Talent Awards this year. Other Jurists included Japanese director Yûya Ishii, Taiwan-based director and actor Alec Su and Chinese mainland Actress Tan Zhuo.