The 3rd Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF III) concluded with a remarkable milestone: it gained international recognition not through grand introductions, but through the genuine values it created—from its high professional standards and meticulous organization to its strong cultural message and its nurturing space for young cinematic talent.
Running from June 29 to July 5, 2025, DANAFF III left a profound impression on audiences, professionals, and international media. This year, the festival expanded in scale with nearly 106 films and over 200 screenings, dozens of networking, training, and industry events, and the participation of leading Vietnamese and Asian stars, renowned filmmakers, global experts, and international and domestic partners. More importantly, DANAFF III marked a significant step forward in Vietnam’s journey toward international cinematic integration. It was honored by UNESCO as one of the flagship events commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. This recognition affirms the values DANAFF pursues: connecting cultures through the language of cinema, fostering diversity, and creating a space for the growth of the next generation of filmmakers.
UNESCO Director-General: “DANAFF has empowered creativity and connected cultures”
Shortly after the event concluded, Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, sent a congratulatory letter to Dr. Ngô Phương Lan, Director of the Da Nang Asian Film Festival. In the letter, she wrote: “I would like to extend my warmest congratulations on the sucess of the 3rd Da Nang Asian Film Festival. This vibrant event, which I had the pleasure of attending, is a testament to the power of cinema to unite people from all backgrounds. UNESCO has long avocated for the protection and promotion of cultural diversity, and I wish to commend the magnificent representation of Asia’s diverse film industry within the festival programme. In doing so, this festival is not only given voice to different communities but also empowered emerging talent, nurtured creativity, and strengthened intercultural dialogue.”
She also expressed her sincere appreciation for the professionalism and hospitality of the DANAFF III organizing team: “Your hospitality and attention to detail greatly contributed to the success of the mission.”
From Audiences to Filmmakers: DANAFF Builds a Connected Cinematic Ecosystem
With the theme “Bridging Asia,” DANAFF III truly became a bridge across audiences, filmmakers, cultural policymakers, and international organizations. Throughout the week, Da Nang was more than a cinematic space—it became a hub for dialogue through specialized seminars, talent development workshops, and networking sessions.
Ms. Martine Thérouanne, Executive Director of the Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema—one of Europe’s most respected platforms for evaluating and promoting Asian independent films, and a jury member of the Asian Competition at DANAFF III—shared: “DANAFF is only three years old, so it’s a young festival.What really stands out for me is the incredibly warm welcome — not just for me, but for all the guests. An dalso the clear intention to spotlight Vietnamese cinema.. I think DANAFF is on track to become one of the major festivals in Asia.”
She added: “I have followed Vietnamese cinema for many years, having hosted retrospectives in 2002, 2010, and 2014, and we plan another in 2027. In Vesoul, we focus on auteur and artistic cinema. We’ve welcomed prominent Vietnamese directors such as Dang Nhat Minh, Bui Thac Chuyen, Phan Dang Di, and Viet Linh, as well as many lesser-known filmmakers. I was struck by how quickly the festival has grown,both in terms of the number of films presented and the organization of seminars and workshops.”
Ms. Thérouanne emphasized the role of festivals like DANAFF: “Being selected by a film festival is incredibly meaningful. Producers are more likely to invest in directors with films that have been recognized at reputable festivals. DANAFF recognition can open doors to funding, collaboration, and both domestic and international exposure.”
She also praised the jury’s film selection criteria: “We focused on works with fresh, innovative storytelling, strong personal voice, emotional resonance, and authentic reflections of society or universal values. Some Vietnamese films, particularly ‘Don’t Cry Butterfly,’ displayed a sharp, independent spirit and strong experimentation.”
She concluded: “I hope DANAFF continues to uphold its jury standards, expand international cooperation, and become a solid platform for young Asian cinematic talent.”
International Press Acknowledge DANAFF III
DANAFF III drew significant praise from international media, including major outlets like Xinhua (China), Korea Herald, Yonhap News, Hankook Ilbo, and Nate News (Korea).
Xinhua described DANAFF III as “a platform presenting emotional and artistically creative stories from Asia-Pacific filmmakers, offering new perspectives and celebrating cultural diversity.” A Vesoul representative told Xinhua: “We believe cinema is a powerful bridge between cultures, and DANAFF has created a space to share stories, honor differences, and spark dialogue.”
Korea Herald quoted director Jang Joon-hwan (Save the Green Planet!): “The atmosphere here is vibrant and energetic, reminiscent of the early days of the Bucheon Fantastic Film Festival. DANAFF has great potential to become a leading festival in the region.”
Yonhap News highlighted: “Korea being named Country of Honor reflects DANAFF’s growing prestige in the region. It is becoming a meeting point for Asian film industries.”
Hankook Ilbo praised DANAFF’s role in cultural connectivity: “DANAFF is emerging as a cinematic bridge in the region,” and noted the participation of top Korean directors and actors such as Jang Joon-hwan, Moon So-ri, Kim Dong-ho, and Park Kwang-su as evidence of the festival’s growing appeal and potential for collaboration.
Actors also expressed deep impressions of the festival’s spirit. Actor Ji Seung-hyun shared: “I was truly impressed by the lively atmosphere and hospitality. DANAFF is not only a film screening platform but also a cultural connector.” Actor Park Sung-woong added: “I am proud to represent Korean cinema at such a collaborative and cultural event like DANAFF.”
These positive responses from industry professionals and international media affirm the professionalism and strategic direction of DANAFF—a film festival steadily rising in prominence on Asia’s cinematic map.
DANAFF: A Long-Term Vision for Vietnam’s Creative Industry
DANAFF III was organized by the Vietnam Film Development Association (VFDA) in collaboration with the Da Nang People’s Committee, relevant departments, and strategic partners. Over three editions, DANAFF has steadily built its position not only as an artistic platform but also as a driving force for the development of Vietnam’s creative and film industry—from talent training and production promotion to international branding.
UNESCO’s recognition, especially during the 20th anniversary of the 2005 Convention, is not only an honor but also a milestone affirming that Vietnamese cinema, with the right vision and strategic investment, can truly become a cultural bridge between nations.
