Polish director and editor Rafał Listopad, a juror at the 12th Silk Road International Film Festival, recently revealed the transformative power of film editing in shaping cinematic narratives during an interview with CGTN's Zhang Meng. Drawing parallels to life itself, Listopad described films as being "born three times" – first as a screenplay, then through production, and most profoundly during editing, where "the story finds its soul."
"Editing isn't just cutting – it's rewriting with light and rhythm," said Listopad, whose work bridges European and Asian cinematic traditions.
The filmmaker credited Chinese director Wong Kar-wai's visually poetic works for revolutionizing his approach to storytelling during his formative years. "Discovering Wong's films felt like unlocking a new language of emotion," he reflected, emphasizing how this cross-cultural inspiration continues to influence his collaborations with Asian filmmakers today.
Listopad's insights come as global interest grows in Asia's film festivals and creative industries, with events like the Silk Road International Film Festival fostering artistic exchange across 49 countries and regions. His perspective offers valuable lessons for aspiring filmmakers and cultural analysts tracking Asia's expanding soft power footprint.
