Asia Pacific Screen Awards: Hamaguchi and Shah Battle for the Spotlight

The Great Divide: Hamaguchi vs. Shah

When the Asia Pacific Screen Academy (APSA) announced its 2026 nominations, two films immediately caught my attention—Hamaguchi Ryusuke's "All of a Sudden" and Abinash Bikram Shah's "Elephants in the Fog." Each film earned three nods apiece, leading the pack with impressive momentum. What makes this competition even more exciting is how these two filmmakers represent distinct yet equally compelling cinematic voices from different corners of Asia.

Hamaguchi Ryusuke's 'All of a Sudden': A Masterpiece in Simplicity

"All of a Sudden," directed by Hamaguchi Ryusuke, is a masterclass in understated brilliance. This French-Japanese-German-Belgian co-production follows the emotional journey of a young woman grappling with unexpected loss, capturing intimate moments with such nuance that it's almost painful to watch. The film's success at international festivals has been nothing short of phenomenal, and its nomination for Best Film, Best Director, and Best Performance reflects the critical acclaim it continues to receive.

"Hamaguchi's work is a testament to cinema's ability to find universal truths in deeply personal stories."

Virginie Efira and Okamoto Tao share the Best Performance nod for their powerful portrayals, bringing depth and authenticity to roles that could have easily been one-dimensional. Their performances anchor the film, making every emotion feel raw and genuine.

Abinash Bikram Shah's 'Elephants in the Fog': Cultural Richness Meets Storytelling

On the other side of the spectrum, Abinash Bikram Shah's "Elephants in the Fog" offers a different kind of cinematic experience. Shot across Nepal, Germany, Brazil, France, and Norway, this film is a beautiful collage of cultures that blend seamlessly into an unforgettable narrative about identity and belonging. The film's nomination for Best Film, Best Director, and Best Performance underscores its impact on audiences worldwide.

Pushpa Thing Lama's portrayal of a young woman caught between tradition and modernity is both moving and thought-provoking. Shah's direction balances emotional resonance with cultural sensitivity, creating a narrative that speaks to universal themes while remaining deeply rooted in its specific context.

A Panorama of Global Voices

What's particularly striking about this year's APSA nominations is how they reflect a global cinematic conversation. Films like "No Good Men," "Guria," and "9 Temples to Heaven" demonstrate that creativity transcends borders. These projects, representing countries as diverse as Afghanistan, Georgia, Thailand, and more, show that the best films are often those that bring together different perspectives.

First-Time Directors: A New Generation Emerges

A significant trend this year is the number of first-time directors making their mark with nominations. In fact, 69% of directors with nominated films are presenting their first or second feature—highlighting a shift in power within the film industry. This statistic isn't just about numbers; it represents an opportunity for fresh voices to shape global storytelling.

The Role of Collaboration

Collaboration played a major role in this year's nominations, with many films featuring cross-border partnerships. The nomination for "The Violinist," a Singapore-Spain co-production, is a shining example of how filmmakers can transcend national boundaries to create something truly special.

Behind the Scenes: APSA's Vision

Tracey Vieira, chair of the Asia Pacific Screen Academy, highlighted the collaborative spirit behind these films: "When you look across this year's nominations, what really stands out is the level of collaboration behind these films." Her words resonate deeply in an era where storytelling often feels fragmented and isolated. Here, we see a renewed emphasis on unity through art.

What's Next?

With the Asia Pacific Screen Forum scheduled to take place from October 28–30 in Gold Coast, Australia, we can expect plenty of discussions about financing, distribution, and cross-border collaboration. It's also worth noting that three projects backed by the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund earned nominations this year: "9 Temples to Heaven," "The Station," and "We Are All Strangers." This support for emerging talent is a promising sign for the future of independent filmmaking.

As I reflect on the 2026 nominations, it becomes clear that cinema is not just about entertainment—it's about connection. These films remind us that despite our differences in geography, language, and culture, we share similar hopes, fears, and dreams. Whether it's through Hamaguchi's quiet introspection or Shah's vibrant storytelling, each film offers a window into the human condition.

Final Thoughts

The Asia Pacific Screen Awards 2026 promises to be one of the most compelling yet, with its rich tapestry of global stories and emerging voices. As we await the final winners, I find myself already nostalgic for the journeys these films will take us on. The stakes are high, but so is the promise of cinematic discovery.