Uljana Kim, a renowned Korean-Kyrgyzstani film producer, will be receiving the 2023 Eurimages International Co-Production award at the European Film Awards. This prestigious award, supported by the pan-European co-production fund Eurimages, is a recognition of Kim’s outstanding contributions to the film industry.
Kim, who was born to a Korean family in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, has emerged as one of Eastern Europe’s leading film producers. She is the founder of Studio Uljana Kim, a production and distribution company based in Vilnius, Lithuania. Under her leadership, the company has produced 34 feature and documentary films, many of which have premiered at major international film festivals.
Some of Kim’s most successful productions include Ignas Jonynas’ thriller “The Gambler” (2013), Kristijonas Vildžiūnas’ “The Lease” (2002), and Tomas Vengris’s “Five and a Half Love Stories in an Apartment in Vilnius.” Her significant contributions to the film industry have not gone unnoticed, with Kim having co-produced 10 films with the support of Eurimages, six of which as a majority producer.
The European Film Academy, in a statement announcing the award, praised Kim for her exceptional commitment to co-production and the strong partnerships she has cultivated over the years. The award also recognizes the excellent track record of her company in the competitive arena of the Eurimages co-production support program.
The award will be presented to Kim at the European Film Awards gala in Berlin on Dec. 9, where she will be celebrated for her remarkable achievements and contributions to the international film industry.
Kim’s work as a producer has not only garnered critical acclaim but has also been instrumental in fostering collaborative partnerships in the film industry. Her ability to navigate the complexities of international co-productions and her dedication to building strong relationships with filmmakers and industry professionals have undoubtedly set her apart as a visionary producer.
The film industry, particularly in Eastern Europe, has benefited immensely from Kim’s passion for storytelling and her unwavering commitment to bringing diverse and thought-provoking narratives to the screen. Her dedication to supporting and championing filmmakers, both locally and internationally, has made a profound impact on the industry, and her contributions continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
As a producer, Kim has demonstrated a keen understanding of the power of cinema as a medium for cultural exchange and storytelling. Her work reflects a deep appreciation for the unique perspectives and voices that make up the global film landscape. Through her films, she has not only entertained audiences but has also sparked important conversations and shed light on pressing social and cultural issues.
The Eurimages International Co-Production award is a testament to Uljana Kim’s invaluable contributions to the film industry and serves as a reminder of the significant impact of international co-productions in shaping the cinematic landscape. As she continues to push boundaries and forge new partnerships, Kim’s influence on the industry is sure to endure, inspiring future generations of filmmakers and industry professionals.