North Korea’s film industry is a vital tool in the regime’s vast propaganda machinery. Now, for the first time ever, foreign filmmakers have been allowed into the country’s only film school – an elite institution where young talents are trained to create works that will not only entertain, but help shape the psyche of an entire nation.
Kim Un Bom and Ri Yun Mi are two aspiring actors handpicked to become future movie stars. Idealistic and ambitious, they have huge dreams. Their lives are a reflection of how the best and brightest live in the world’s most secretive state. Over at the North Korean Film Studio, Director Pyo Hang is racing to complete the country’s latest blockbuster, a period drama featuring a cast of hundreds. It’s a highly stressful environment and Pyo has his work cut out – he must not only rally his cast and crew, he must deliver a masterpiece that will please his leaders.
Official Selection, Hotdocs 2013
Official Selection, Buenos Aires International Independent Film Festival 2013
Official Selection, Southeast Asian Film Festival 2013
In Competition, Dubai International Film Festival 2012
Official Selection, Docville 2013
Official Selection, DMZ Docs 2013
Official Selection, Bergen International Film Festival 2013
Official Selection, San Diego Asian Film Festival 2013
Official Selectin, Docslisboa 2013
Some films are an absolute treat to find and ‘The Great North Korean Picture’ Show is definitely one of them – Hotdocs
A unique look at the creation and perpetuation of propaganda – The Argentina Independent
Run for your ticket! – BAFICI