Kim Nam-gil’s produced short film ‘How to Open a Door’ took home a prize in the Shorts Competition at the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFF).
SIFF praised the project as a strong fit for teen audiences, noting that it tackles their realities with nuance and pull. The festival highlighted the film’s imaginative use of symbolism to deepen its message, calling out its originality and craftsmanship.
The short previously sold out its screenings at the 29th Busan International Film Festival, striking a chord with global audiences. It went on to secure official invitations to the 29th Fantasia International Film Festival and the 12th Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth, and its Sharjah win is drawing fresh attention from industry insiders worldwide.
Next up, the film is headed to Tokyo’s Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia, which kicks off on the 22nd.
Framed as a fantasy, ‘How to Open a Door’ follows Haneul, a young adult aging out of the system, who sets off on a quest to reclaim a home that mysteriously vanishes overnight. The film was co-written and co-directed by Park Ji-wan and Heo Ji-ye, with Kim Nam-gil serving as executive producer and appearing in the cast.
“I’m truly grateful for the love ‘How to Open a Door’ has received at home and abroad for its universal message. Earning recognition on the international stage makes it even more meaningful,” Kim said. “I’ll keep pushing forward with new challenges to champion the value of K-content around the world.”
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)