What Is 12th Asia Pacific Screen Awards

Overview

The 12th Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) took place in 2018, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of cinematic excellence across the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 2007, APSA was created to promote and celebrate the rich diversity of film cultures throughout Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific Islands. Organized by the Asia Pacific Screen Academy and supported by UNESCO and the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), the awards aim to foster cultural understanding through film while elevating regional voices on the global stage.

Hosted in Brisbane, Australia, the 2018 ceremony continued a tradition of showcasing films that reflect authentic narratives, often from underrepresented communities. Unlike other international film festivals, APSA emphasizes cultural authenticity, cinematic artistry, and regional representation over commercial success. The event draws entries from over 70 countries, including Afghanistan, China, India, Iran, Japan, South Korea, and Papua New Guinea, making it one of the most geographically inclusive film awards in the world.

The significance of the 12th APSA lies in its role as a cultural bridge, promoting dialogue and mutual respect among diverse societies through the universal language of cinema. By honoring films in languages ranging from Farsi to Mandarin to Māori, the awards underscore the importance of linguistic and cultural preservation in storytelling. With a judging panel composed of over 1,300 film professionals from the Asia-Pacific region, the APSA ensures that recognition comes from within the community it represents, reinforcing its credibility and regional authenticity.

How It Works

The Asia Pacific Screen Awards operate through a rigorous, multi-tiered selection and judging process designed to uphold artistic integrity and inclusivity. Submissions are accepted from professional filmmakers across eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region, defined by UNESCO’s Asia-Pacific membership. A preliminary screening committee reviews all entries before forwarding qualified films to the APSA International Jury, which determines the final nominees and winners across 15 competitive categories.

• Eligibility: Films must originate from one of over 70 eligible countries in the Asia-Pacific region and feature significant creative input from nationals of those countries. Eligible works include feature films, documentaries, and animated features released between October 1, 2017, and September 30, 2018.
• Submission Process: Producers or distributors submit entries online through the official APSA portal, providing materials such as screeners, synopses, and crew details. There is no entry fee, ensuring accessibility for independent and low-budget filmmakers.
• Judging Panel: The APSA International Jury consists of 12 to 15 renowned filmmakers, actors, and critics from across the region, selected annually to ensure impartiality and cultural balance.
• Categories: Awards are given in 15 categories, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Youth Film, Best Screenplay, Best Animated Film, and Best Documentary, among others.
• Cultural Diversity Award: This non-competitive honor recognizes films that promote intercultural understanding and is selected by UNESCO.
• Audience Award: Introduced in recent years, this category allows public voting to determine a popular favorite, increasing audience engagement.

Key Details and Comparisons

The comparison above highlights how the 12th Asia Pacific Screen Awards distinguishes itself through its regional focus and cultural mission. While the Oscars and Cannes are global in scope and often dominated by Western productions, APSA prioritizes underrepresented voices and indigenous storytelling. Unlike the Asia Film Awards, which center on East Asian cinema, APSA includes the Middle East and Pacific Islands, making it more inclusive. The fact that Hirokazu Kore-eda’s 'Shoplifters' won both the APSA Best Film and the Cannes Palme d’Or in 2018 underscores the film’s universal acclaim and APSA’s alignment with international standards of excellence. Additionally, APSA’s UNESCO affiliation and non-commercial judging process reinforce its cultural rather than commercial orientation.

Real-World Examples

The 12th APSA celebrated several standout films that exemplified the region’s cinematic depth. The Japanese drama 'Shoplifters', directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, won both Best Film and Best Director, cementing its status as a global critical favorite. The film, which explores poverty and familial bonds in Tokyo, also won the Palme d’Or at Cannes, making it the first Japanese film in decades to achieve such dual recognition. Another notable winner was 'Roma' from Mexico, which received the APSA for Best Cinematography despite Mexico being outside the typical region—allowed due to special cultural partnerships.

1. Shoplifters (Japan) – Best Film, Best Director
2. Luci (Philippines) – Best Youth Film
3. Burning (South Korea) – Best Screenplay (adapted)
4. Wajib (Palestine) – Best Actor (Mohammad Bakri)

Why It Matters

The 12th Asia Pacific Screen Awards matter not only as a celebration of artistry but as a platform for cultural diplomacy and social change. By spotlighting films that address issues such as poverty, migration, and identity, APSA amplifies voices that might otherwise go unheard in mainstream cinema. Its inclusive framework supports gender parity and emerging filmmakers, contributing to a more equitable film industry.

• Impact: APSA has increased international visibility for filmmakers from countries like Bangladesh, Mongolia, and Fiji, leading to distribution deals and festival invitations.
• Cultural Preservation: The awards encourage the use of indigenous languages and traditional storytelling methods in film, helping preserve endangered cultures.
• Gender Equality: In 2018, over 40% of nominated directors were women, reflecting APSA’s commitment to gender balance.
• Educational Outreach: The APSA Academy runs workshops and masterclasses across the region, fostering the next generation of filmmakers.
• Global Recognition: Winning an APSA often leads to Oscar submissions; several APSA winners have advanced to the Academy Awards shortlist.

Ultimately, the 12th Asia Pacific Screen Awards exemplify how film can transcend borders and foster empathy. By honoring stories rooted in local realities yet resonant globally, APSA continues to shape the future of world cinema. Its legacy is not measured solely in trophies but in the enduring impact of the stories it elevates.