Thanks to the support recently received from Purin Pictures, we are pleased to announce that work has begun on NANG’s second online-only Issue, Independent Cinema Spaces in Asia, which will be freely available on this page in December 2021.

Initiated and led by curator and writer Aiko Masubuchi, the Issue wishes to celebrate the vibrant culture of independent, arthouse, and community-centered cinema spaces across Asia and to foster inter-Asian connections and networks. While acknowledging the role and importance of state-run film archives, cinematheques, and museums, the Issue will not include these institutions but rather focus on the grassroots movement of independent cinema houses—with special attention being paid to spaces which are currently in operation or have closed only recently.

At the center of the Issue will be a curated selection of independent cinema spaces from West, Central, East, South, and Southeast Asia. A series of original contributions will approach such spaces from a variety of angles—including but not limited to critical essays, conversations, videos, and photo series. In the spirit of NANG, the aim is to build a rich collection of words and images on these spaces, for knowledge, inspiration, and enjoyment.

Taking advantage of the capabilities of the online format, this will be an “open-ended” Issue. After the initial launch we hope to update and expand the curated selection on a yearly basis, with the hope that the project may represent a seed of an archive of independent cinema spaces in Asia.

“Independent cinema spaces have long been homes for eye-opening discoveries, exchanges and community. I’m overjoyed to be able to work on this exciting online edition that celebrates the wonderful work of independent cinema spaces across Asia into the future.”
— Aiko Masubuchi

Comments, questions, and inquiries can be emailed to online@nangmagazine.com