A Visionary's Journey: From Cannes Glory to Shanghai's New Horizons

The Acclaimed Trilogy Concludes: "We Are All Strangers"

The year 2026 has been particularly vibrant for Anthony Chen, whose latest cinematic offering, "We Are All Strangers," has garnered significant attention. This film made its debut in competition at the Berlin Film Festival in February and subsequently inaugurated both the Hong Kong International Film Festival and Italy's Far East Film Festival in Udine during April. "We Are All Strangers" serves as the poignant conclusion to what Chen refers to as his "Growing Up" trilogy. This series of films, which includes the Cannes Camera d'Or-winning "Ilo Ilo" (2013) and 2019's "Wet Season," meticulously explores the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the fabric of life in his native Singapore.

Embracing Jury Duty: Shanghai International Film Festival

With his latest film touring the festival circuit, Chen now turns his attention to the Shanghai International Film Festival, where he will preside over the Asian New Talent jury. This opportunity offers him a moment to reflect and engage with emerging cinematic voices. His own career trajectory, significantly boosted by the global recognition and numerous accolades received for "Ilo Ilo" after its Cannes premiere, makes him a strong advocate for the vital role film festivals play in nurturing new talent. Alongside fellow esteemed jurors, including directors Kamila Andini, Liu Jiayin, Farkhat Sharipov, and actress Wen Qi, Chen will meticulously evaluate a selection of 12 films from first or second-time filmmakers across the Asian region. He acknowledges the challenging yet rewarding task of identifying future cinematic stars, a role he approaches with dedication and a steady supply of coffee.

A Peek into the Jury Process: An Unbiased Approach

When approaching his duties as a juror, Chen adopts a unique and principled stance. He prefers to experience films without any prior knowledge, eschewing reviews or plot summaries to ensure an unbiased perspective. This method allows him to be genuinely surprised and moved by the narratives presented. His commitment to the role is evident in his meticulous preparation, including consuming copious amounts of coffee to maintain focus and offer the utmost respect to each filmmaker's creation.

The Transformative Impact of Film Festivals on a Career

Chen often reflects on the profound influence film festivals and awards had on the early stages of his career. The global success of "Ilo Ilo," which secured over 40 international awards, including the prestigious Camera d'Or at Cannes and multiple Golden Horse Awards, was instrumental in launching his career and opening doors to a world of opportunities. He firmly believes in the invaluable platform that film festivals provide for young filmmakers, acting as crucial launchpads for their artistic journeys.

Defining Cinematic Excellence: What Anthony Chen Seeks

In his quest for cinematic excellence, Chen is drawn to films that evoke a deep human connection, moving him on a profound emotional level rather than through superficial sentimentality. He values narratives that provoke introspection and encourage contemplation about the human condition. As a filmmaker himself, he also appreciates masterful mise-en-scène and sophisticated cinematic language, always favoring the principle of "less is more" – believing that true impact often lies in subtlety and restraint.

Shanghai's Pivotal Role in Asian Cinema

Chen highlights the significant role the Shanghai Film Festival, particularly its Asian New Talent section, plays in discovering and promoting emerging filmmakers from across Asia. He points to an impressive roster of celebrated talents who have emerged from this competition, including the late Pema Tseden, Ning Hao, Makoto Shinkai, and Tom Lin, underscoring the festival's legacy as a launching pad for future cinematic luminaries.

Venturing into Television: A Chinese-Singaporean Collaboration

Beyond his festival commitments, Chen reveals exciting developments in his own creative endeavors. He is currently developing a 12-part episodic series through his company, Giraffe Pictures. This project marks his debut in the episodic world, a venture he is particularly enthusiastic about show-running. The series, which focuses on universal themes of food and family – deeply personal values for Chen – is set to begin production in the coming months as a Chinese-Singaporean co-production, reuniting him with producer Meng Xie, with whom he previously collaborated on "The Breaking Ice."

Shanghai: A City of Enduring Allure

Chen expresses his deep affection for Shanghai, describing it as one of his favorite cities globally. Its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences sets it apart from other Chinese metropolises. He particularly enjoys strolling through the tree-lined streets of the French Concession, savoring its old-world charm and European ambiance. The city's vibrant café culture, art galleries, and fashion boutiques contribute to its irresistible appeal, making his decision to accept the jury presidency an easy one.