Watch the live broadcast of the 61st Golden Horse Awards ceremony here
The 61st Golden Horse Awards took place on November 23, 2024, at the Taipei Pop Music Center. The event opened with a red carpet ceremony featuring “Queen of the Red Carpet” Yang Qianpei, along with artists Xu Junhao and Wang Yuxuan.
This year, the awards received a record 718 film submissions. Key nominees for Best Actor include Thai actor Wanlop Rungkumjad, Chang Chen, Shi Jiang, Hong Kong actor Yu Juexiu, and Chinese actor Zhang Zhiyang. Best Actress nominees include Sylvia Chang, Sandra Ng, Au Xiaowen, Jia Yuqiao, and Chung Juying.
“The Way of the Devil” led nominations with 11 categories, including Best Feature Film and Best Director. “Xiao Yan and Wu Aili,” along with “Beautiful Friend,” are also strong contenders with eight nominations.
How does Dr. Mei Lin view the impact of digital platforms on the increase in film submissions for the Golden Horse Awards?
Interview with Film Specialist Dr. Mei Lin on the 61st Golden Horse Awards
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Mei Lin, and thank you for joining us to discuss the 61st Golden Horse Awards held on November 23, 2024. This year’s event was notable for several reasons, including a record number of submissions. Can you share your thoughts on this significant increase?
Dr. Mei Lin: Thank you for having me. The record 718 film submissions at this year’s Golden Horse Awards truly reflects the growing interest and investment in Asian cinema. This increase can be attributed to the rise of digital platforms that allow filmmakers, especially from independent backgrounds, to showcase their work more widely. It demonstrates that both established and emerging filmmakers are eager to participate in this prestigious event.
Editor: Indeed, it’s a remarkable achievement. With the competition so fierce this year, who are your key picks for Best Actor and Best Actress, and why?
Dr. Mei Lin: The Best Actor category this year is particularly competitive. I find Wanlop Rungkumjad’s work intriguing; he’s brought a unique flavor to his role that underscores the emotional depth of the narrative. Chang Chen and Yu Juexiu also have strong performances that captivated audiences. For Best Actress, Sylvia Chang stands out due to her consistent ability to embody complex characters. However, I believe Au Xiaowen’s portrayal in her latest role will certainly surprise many and could clinch the award.
Editor: “The Way of the Devil” leading with 11 nominations is impressive. What do you think makes it a standout film this year?
Dr. Mei Lin: “The Way of the Devil” successfully merges visually stunning cinematography with a powerful story that resonates with contemporary issues. Its compelling character arcs and profound themes of morality and redemption have sparked discussions among audiences and critics alike. Furthermore, the direction pushes creative boundaries, making it a strong contender not only for Best Feature but also for Best Director.
Editor: The presence of film legends, such as Ang Lee presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to Zheng Peipei, adds tremendous value to the ceremony. How do such moments impact the film community?
Dr. Mei Lin: Moments like these are vital for the legacy and mentorship within the film industry. Ang Lee’s recognition of Zheng Peipei celebrates the impact of her contributions to martial arts cinema and inspires new generations. These acknowledgments serve to remind filmmakers and actors of the rich history of cinema that shapes our present narratives.
Editor: The ceremony’s accessibility via live broadcasting and streaming is also noteworthy. How important is this for international audiences and inclusivity in the film industry?
Dr. Mei Lin: Accessibility is crucial in fostering global appreciation for films. By offering streaming services like YouTube and sign language options, the Golden Horse Awards are breaking barriers and opening the door for more inclusive viewing. This initiative allows diverse audiences to engage with significant cultural moments—essential for the evolution of international cinema.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mei Lin, for sharing your insights on this year’s Golden Horse Awards. Your perspectives on the nominees and the event’s impact on the film community are invaluable to our readers.
Dr. Mei Lin: My pleasure. I look forward to seeing how the results of the awards influence the industry in the coming months.
Prominent figures joined the event, including legendary director Ang Lee, who presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to the late martial arts star Zheng Peipei. Director Zhu Yanping awarded photographer Lin Wenjin a Lifetime Achievement Award. The Outstanding Taiwanese Filmmaker of the Year award went to director Wang Tong.
The awards ceremony is being broadcast live in Taiwan on Taiwan TV, with streaming available on myvideo.net.tw and Line Today. International viewers can watch the Golden Horse Awards on YouTube. Sign language services are also available for viewers.