We have now arrived at the 20th Seoul Indie-AniFest. This was made possible by thecountless films that have graced the festival over years, diverse and uniquefilms created through hard work and genuine passion.
For the 20th anniversary festival, whose slogan is “YO-HO,” the Independent Walk competition has received films with a wide range of subjects and genres. In particular, there were a number of uncommonexperimental films, for which we were personally thankful. We marveled at theboundless imagination given form by artistry, and we felt the power of art toconvey emotions and sensibilities even without narratives.
There were also many films notable for their human quality, offering fragmentaryglimpses into the lives of various people across society, each one playing arole, each one special and yet ordinary. They are warm, sorrowful, empathetic,and at times even aching. Seeing the tapestry of authentic films from all walksof life is the beauty of the Independent Walk Competition.
As people who make animations, we know the deep care and attention that goes into a single film which lasts only a few minutes. That is why the preliminary reviewwas both a precious and difficult time. At times, the members of the jury heldlong discussions about the submissions.
We carefully considered not only the visual finish of the films, but also eachwork’s subject and the directorial approach and perspectives brought to it. We selected those films that tackled and resolved challenging elements, inspiringus and also assuring us that the audience too would be inspired.
We wish to express our congratulations to the chosen films and hope that the festivalhelps them to be seen and appreciated by a wider audience. And we also extendour encouragement to all the films that were not selected. They were alsoimpressive and full of potential, and they will surely see the spotlight inmany other places. This is the “YO-HO” 20thanniversary festival, and we thank everyone for being a part of it.
written by KIM Kyeongbae on behalf of the Independent Walk Preliminary Selection Jury Members: MO Eunyoung, NOH Gyeongmu, KIM Kyeongbae
