What's Happening?
Derek Lui, a former executive at LevelK and Memento International, has launched a new Sydney-based sales agency called Surprise H. The agency is debuting with a slate of three films, which will be introduced
to buyers at the Cannes Film Festival. The films include 'I Am Going To Miss You' by Brazilian director Daniel Ribeiro, 'Levitating' by Indonesian director Wregas Bhanuteja, and 'Larirang', a Korean-language drama by Sunhee Na. Lui emphasizes the agency's focus on emotionally driven storytelling with strong international appeal. The films are characterized by their unique voices and universal themes, aiming to connect deeply with audiences.
Why It's Important?
The launch of Surprise H highlights the growing trend of international collaboration in the film industry, with a focus on diverse storytelling. This move could enhance the visibility of films from underrepresented regions, offering them a platform at major international festivals like Cannes. By prioritizing emotional and distinctive narratives, the agency aims to carve out a niche in a competitive market, potentially influencing the types of films that gain international distribution. This could lead to a broader acceptance and appreciation of diverse cultural stories in global cinema.
What's Next?
Surprise H will make its market debut at the Cannes Film Festival, where it aims to attract buyers and expand its roster of films. The agency plans to continue building its slate with films that offer unique perspectives and emotional depth. As the agency grows, it may influence the types of films that are produced and distributed internationally, potentially leading to more diverse storytelling in the global film market.






