Project Spotlight Selection

2025 SelectionList

Rhythm for the Dead

Rhythm for the Dead

Country Korea
Director Kate Minju KIM
Producer CHO Eunsik
Writer NAM Ingun
Production Company
Format DCP | Color | 90min
Genre Horror, Supernatural

Synopsis

A Korean traditional music student desperate for recognition joins a forbidden shamanic ritual as a drummer. Once criticized for lacking han?the deep, unresolved sorrow that defines the Korean soul, her rhythm begins to awaken something beyond the living. She gains attention but also suffers unexplained burns and terrifying visions. When her friend dies in a suspicious fire, she uncovers a chilling link between the ritual, a series of mysterious blazes, and vengeful spirits. Now, with each beat of her drum, she channels the wrath of the dead?playing not for applause, but for revenge.

Director

Kate Minju KIM​

Kate Minju KIM studied film theory at Columbia University, followed by a position in international film distribution at CJ ENM. Drawn to visual storytelling, she pursued an MFA in film directing at the Korea National University of Arts, where she wrote and directed several short films, including Rewind to Tomorrow, To Darkness, and Deadend. Her works have been recognized at festivals such as the LA Shorts Fest. She is currently developing her debut feature, Rhythm for the Dead. Her creative vision lies in transforming deeply Korean narratives into cineamtic stories that resonate beyond borders.

Producer

CHO Eunsik

CHO Eunsik completed the short film production program at the Incheon Film Commission and has since worked across a range of short and feature film productions. He produced Rewind to Tomorrow, supported by Incheon Film Commission and Korean Film Council, and Belly of the Mountains, supported by Seoul Independent Film Festival. His feature film credits include High Sugar as production manager and 7Days 7People as line producer. He is currently developing Rhythm for the Dead, building a strong foundation for genre filmmaking rooted in Korean tradition.