The cinema industry is on the brink of transformation, with 2024 expected to be pivotal for filmmakers and audiences alike. Around the globe, notable trends demonstrate how various countries are adapting and innovatively shaping their cinema landscapes.
One shining example is Hungary, where filmmaker Gábor Herendi has captivated local audiences with his new romantic comedy, Gone Running. Having established himself as the darling of Hungarian cinema, boasting over 2.5 million admissions to his name, Herendi's latest work is defined by its impressive performance at the box office. Released on November 21, the film immediately took the lead, achieving approximately 300,000 admissions within its first week, making it the top Hungarian film of 2024.
Gone Running is based on the Czech hit film Women on the Run and tells the story of Vera, who, after the unexpected death of her husband, decides to honor his wishes by running a relay marathon with her three daughters. Surprisingly, none of them are prepared for the challenge, leading to comical and heartfelt moments. The film features talented actors such as Dorottya Udvaros and Sándor Csányi, and is sold worldwide by NFI World Sales. Herendi's success is underscored by previous box office hits, making him the most acclaimed Hungarian director over the last 25 years.
American movies dominated the overall box office, with blockbuster success evident through titles like Deadpool & Wolverine, grossing €3.7 million. Following Herendi's work, local productions such as Now or Never! and Lesson Learned also garnered attention, highlighting the rich yet competitive environment of cinema within Hungary.
Shifting focus to Asia, the Chinese film industry is at the forefront of innovation with artificial intelligence playing a transformative role. Director Yu Baimei exemplifies this evolution with his recent short film, Bai Gui Wu Rao (No Disturbance from Ghosts), which reinterprets Zhong Kui, the legendary figure from Chinese folklore. Yu remarked, “I've always been drawn to Zhong Kui -- humorous, heroic and deeply familiar to us all,” expressing his desire to portray the character authentically through modern lenses.
Debuting as part of the 'Kling AI Director Co-Creation Project', the film showcases how AI technology merged seamlessly with traditional storytelling. The production, along with contributions from eight other directors, highlights AI's growing presence from development to post-production, addressing both creative and logistical aspects of filmmaking.
Rao Shuguang, president of the China Film Critics Association, remarked on this trend, stating, “AI now permeates every aspect of filmmaking.” High-profile directors like Zhang Yimou are also capitalizing on AI advancements, using technology to refine scripts and streamline production processes. The opportunity for filmmakers to push creative boundaries has never been more pronounced.
Further investigations reveal how this AI integration isn't merely about efficiency but also about collaboration between human and machine. French filmmaker Luc Besson acknowledged AI as “a valuable tool,” yet emphasized its shortcomings when it came to originality. This sentiment resonates among Chinese filmmakers, reinforcing the idea of AI as more of an aid than as a substitute for human creativity. “Human imagination, creativity and innovation remain irreplaceable by AI,” Rao noted, stressing the urgency for filmmakers to embrace these new tools to remain relevant.
Back to Lebanon, the Metropolis Cinema has reopened after four years of closure, marking a significant revival for independent film in the country. Situated in Beirut's Mar Mikhael district, this renovated venue accommodates 300 viewers across two screening rooms and features a library dedicated to Lebanese and Arab cinema. Hania Mroué, the cinema's director, described the reopening as “a powerful testimony to our community’s enduring love for cinema,” particularly amid Lebanon's tumultuous socio-economic conditions.
The Metropolis Cinema Association has had a longstanding history since 2006, transitioning from a single-screen venue to becoming an internationally recognized institution. Mroué emphasized the importance of nurturing the local film industry, stating, “Despite these obstacles, and with the emergence of new talents, we now need to unite efforts and revitalize our cultural scene.” The venue aims to serve not just as a screening spot but as a vibrant cultural hub—a place for gatherings and inspiration.
Through these developments, the cinema industry reflects resilience amid adversity. From the overwhelming success of local films like Gone Running to the technological revolution sparked by AI, these evolutions are setting the stage for the future of cinema across different regions.
Whether it's the creative storytelling blooming from Budapest, the revolutionary AI initiatives reshaping how films are produced in China, or the resurgence of independent filmmaking within the heart of Lebanon, 2024 promises to be an exciting year for cinema enthusiasts worldwide.
