The leaders of Ho Chi Minh City thank experts for connecting domestic and foreign film organizations to attend HIFF 2024. (Photo: VOV)

The festival attracted about 200 famous filmmakers, directors, and actors from many countries and territories, such as Japanese Director Kore-eda Harizuki, Vietnamese-American Editor of the Oscar-winning film La la Land Tom Cross, and former head of the Directors' Fortnight, independent section at the Cannes Film Festival Oliver Pere.

Producer and Director Hong Anh said the international film festival helps film policy makers see cinema not only as culture but also an economic spearhead.

“The international film festival is also an opportunity for young producers to improve experience and watch many good movies. More importantly they nurture a love for cinema,” said Anh.       

The Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival will award a Golden Star Award for best Southeast Asian film, Best Young Filmmaker Award, Best Short Film Award, and Ho Chi Minh City Movie Award, together with awards for directors, actors, cinematographers, film editors, and visual effects.