The prestigious Cannes Film Festival is gearing up to shine a spotlight on the vibrant creativity of Asia with its “Goes to Cannes” program, which will feature five exceptional projects from the Hong Kong Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) at this year’s Marche du Film. This initiative emphasizes the growing influence and recognition of emerging Asian filmmakers, ensuring that their stories reach global audiences.

This year’s 2025 selection boasts an eclectic mix of narratives that delve into the complexities of human connections, societal challenges, and nuanced character portrayals. With drama as the predominant genre, audiences can expect heartfelt explorations of personal themes and social issues that resonate universally.

Leading the charge is China, with a double feature that captivates the essence of youth. First up is Gong Yiwen's enchanting coming-of-age film, “Her First Taste.” This delicate narrative follows a teenage girl navigating the subtleties of young love through her burgeoning connection with a boy, inviting viewers to reflect on the unexpressed emotions that accompany teenage romance. The film, produced by Qian Yini for Yiwen Films and Sparks Production, will be presented in both Putonghua and the Shengzhou dialect, showcasing the richness of local languages.

Joining this impressive lineup is “Say My Name,” directed by Liu Xing and co-produced with Hong Kong. This gripping drama-romance unfolds around 20-year-old Liang Nian’er, who grapples with identity issues while entangled in a web of “borrowed affection and hatred.” Produced by the talented team of Lyu Yue, Mo Jinjin, and Duan Tingting from Star Lab Production and narrated in Cantonese and Putonghua, this film promises an emotional journey through the complexities of modern relationships.

From Indonesia enters actor-turned-director Reza Rahadian with his impactful film “On Your Lap” (Pangku). This poignant drama focuses on a pregnant female hustler determined to forge a better life amid betrayal and hard choices. Produced by Arya Ibrahim and Gita Fara from Gambar Gerak, this Indonesian-language project is set to elevate the representation of Indonesian storytelling at the festival.

India contributes to the showcase through Tribeny Rai’s “Shape of Momo,” a powerful exploration of multi-generational women's experiences within entrenched patriarchal structures. Produced by Kislay and Geeta Rai from Kathkala Films LLP and Dalley Khorsani Productions, this Nepali-language drama promises to challenge societal norms and give voice to women’s struggles.

Rounding out the exciting selection is Japan’s entry “White Flowers and Fruits,” directed by Sakamoto Yukari. This psychological drama tackles the heavy aftermath of a suicide at a boarding school, as two students delve into dark secrets linked to a supernatural possession. Produced by Yamamoto Teruhisa, known for the acclaimed film "Drive My Car," and from Chiaroscuro Co., Ltd., this film promises to blend reality with the supernatural in a gripping narrative.

The “Goes to Cannes” program has emerged as a pivotal platform for showcasing works-in-progress, providing invaluable networking opportunities for filmmakers. By bridging the gap between creators and international distributors, sales agents, and festival programmers, HAF is propelling some of the most promising projects from Asia into the global spotlight—all set against the iconic backdrop of Cannes. Don’t miss the chance to witness these cinematic gems that are poised to redefine storytelling in the Asian film landscape!