Busan to Host 2024 Food Film Festa Celebrating Rice and Cinema

Busan, South Korea - June 17, 2024 – The City of Busan announces the upcoming 2024 Busan Food Film Festa (BFFF), a unique event blending the art of cinema with the culinary delights of food. Scheduled from June 28 to June 30 at the Busan Cinema Center, this year's festa promises an immersive experience under the theme "Rice: Ordinary and Extraordinary."

The festival will showcase a variety of films and programs designed to engage audiences with the cultural and culinary significance of rice. Attendees can look forward to screenings, interactive sessions, and gourmet events that celebrate the intricate relationship between food and film.

The opening night on June 28 will feature "Tasty Ending," an omnibus film composed of three short stories that delve into the lives of individuals finding solace and meaning through food. The narratives explore themes of comfort, closure, and reconciliation, all revolving around traditional Korean dishes like rice noodles and tteokbokki.

The festival will be divided into three main sections:

1. Rice: Ordinary Life - Showcasing films that highlight the everyday significance of rice. Notable films include:

• "Our Season" (2020, South Korea): A touching drama directed by Yook Sang-hyo.
• "The Zen Diary" (2022, Japan): Directed by Yuji Nakae, this film explores the seasonal foods and traditional practices surrounding rice.

1. Rice: Beyond the Ordinary - Featuring films that depict rice in unconventional contexts:

• "Off the Menu" (2018, USA): A romantic comedy directed by Jay Silverman.
• "Chihwaseon" Remastered (2002, South Korea): A historical drama directed by Im Kwon-taek.

1. BFFF Choice Movie Dining - Presenting the latest culinary-themed films:

• "The House of No Man" (2023, Vietnam): A heartwarming family comedy.
• "Italian Chefs" (2021, Italy): A documentary exploring Italy's rich culinary heritage.
• "Coming Home Again" (2019, USA/Korea): Directed by Wayne Wang, this film is based on a poignant family story.
• "The Taste of Things" (2023, France): A romantic drama directed by Trần Anh Hùng.

The festival is not just about watching films; it offers a range of interactive activities designed to deepen the audience's appreciation for food and cinema. Key programs include:

• Cook! Talk!: Pre-screening discussions led by BFFF programmers, offering insights into the culinary elements of the films.
• Food Terrace: A tasting event where attendees can sample dishes featured in the films, coupled with engaging discussions about their cultural significance.
• Juju Club: An informal gathering where festival-goers can share their thoughts and stories with BFFF programmers over a drink.

Additionally, the festival will host various side events suitable for all ages

• Food Salon: A series of talks focusing on rice as both a daily staple and a symbol of cultural identity.
• Food Zone: An outdoor space featuring trendy food trucks and pop-up restaurants.
• Potluck Table: An open-air dining event where participants can enjoy food and live performances.

Ticketing and More Information

Certain programs, including Cook! Talk!, Food Terrace, and Juju Club, will require tickets, which can be purchased starting June 18 through the official BFFF website (bfff.kr) or the Busan Cinema Center website (dureraum.org). The opening ceremony and outdoor screenings will be free to the public