The Singapore Media Festival (SMF) is back for its 11th edition, promising an exciting showcase of Asia’s best in film, media, and creative industry collaborations. Running from November 28 to December 8, this year’s festival will feature more than 100 films from 45 countries, inspiring industry sessions, and opportunities to connect with Asia’s renowned media talent. With a record-breaking number of international screenings, collaborations, and cultural highlights, SMF 2024 is set to bring Asia’s media community together for an unmissable event in Singapore.
Hosted by Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), the SMF comprises key events: the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF), Singapore Comic Con (SGCC), and Nas Summit Asia.
Showcasing Asia’s Cinematic Talent
Kicking off with over 100 captivating films from 45 countries, the SGIFF will present a unique celebration of cinematic creativity, screening more than 25 Singaporean films, including “Spirit World” by Eric Khoo. The festival will open with the psychological thriller Stranger Eyes by acclaimed Singaporean filmmaker Yeo Siew Hua. In honor of his contributions, Taiwanese actor Lee Kang-sheng will receive the prestigious SGIFF Cinema Icon Award.
Rebecca Lim, SGIFF’s first-ever festival ambassador, commented, “This festival offers a valuable opportunity to bridge the gap between filmmakers and audiences, providing a shared experience that celebrates our diverse stories.”
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Pop Culture Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
The SGCC will celebrate the finest blend of Asian and Western pop culture with award-winning artists like Japanese illustrator Yuko Shimizu and cosplayer Rurusama, presenting exclusive fan experiences enhanced with augmented reality and artificial intelligence.
Pop culture fans can enjoy limited-edition merchandise, family-friendly activities, and unique experiences with iconic characters like Bluey, SpongeBob, and Captain Pikachu. The event will also debut four new Made-with-Singapore games supported by the IMDA, capturing Singapore’s cultural essence and gaming innovation.
Insights from Industry Giants
The Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF), celebrating its 25th edition, will bring together leading media giants like Warner Bros. Discovery, TVING, Youku, and Tencent to explore the future of the media industry through dynamic discussions and groundbreaking pitches. With six high-stakes pitches in development, aspiring creators will present innovative content centered on Asia’s storytelling legacy.
Ms. Yvonne Tang, IMDA’s Cluster Director of Media Industry, remarked, “Asia’s media industry has captured the global stage with its captivating storytelling. The SMF provides the spark to foster new partnerships and showcases Singapore as a hub for impactful collaborations.”
Elevating New Media Content Creation
Nas Summit Asia will gather creators from across Asia, including Singapore’s Smile with Jeryl and Malaysian comedian Jaspers Lai. Attendees can gain valuable insights on crafting engaging content through interactive sessions and fast-paced networking opportunities designed to enhance storytelling skills.
About Singapore Media Festival
Organized by the IMDA, the Singapore Media Festival (SMF) serves as one of Asia’s top platforms for international media industry gatherings. Set in Singapore, the festival celebrates media diversity, encourages collaboration, and highlights Singapore’s role as a creative powerhouse. This year’s theme, Make It Here, underlines Singapore’s ambition to inspire and connect media talents across the region.
