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Director Lee Yun Chan Makes Triumphant Return to Feature Filmmaking with 'To Be Ordinary' at Busan

According to Variety·10/17/2026

Summary

  • Director Lee Yun Chan has returned to feature filmmaking after an absence of two decades with the new movie To Be Ordinary.
  • The film stands out as the sole Taiwanese title selected to compete at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival.
  • According to Variety, this highly anticipated comeback marks a major milestone in contemporary Taiwanese cinema.

According to Variety, acclaimed director Lee Yun Chan has made a remarkable return to feature filmmaking after an absence of two decades with the new movie "To Be Ordinary." This highly anticipated cinematic project has captured significant attention within the international film community, largely because it stands out as the sole Taiwanese title competing at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival. The director's long-awaited comeback has generated immense excitement among cinephiles and industry insiders alike, who have eagerly awaited new work from the visionary filmmaker since the mid-2000s. The journey toward completing "To Be Ordinary" spanned years of careful preparation, reflecting Lee Yun Chan's meticulous approach to storytelling. Returning to the demanding world of feature films after spending twenty years away is no small feat, yet the director has seamlessly transitioned back into the medium. The film explores intricate human relationships and societal norms, themes that have historically resonated deeply throughout Lee's storied career. By securing a competitive slot at Busan, "To Be Ordinary" immediately established itself as a major contender on the Asian film festival circuit, drawing praise for its narrative depth and artistic execution. For Taiwan's domestic film industry, having the sole representative in competition at such a high-profile international festival is a point of immense pride. Industry analysts note that Lee's return could inspire a new wave of appreciation for Taiwanese cinema on the global stage, bridging the gap between veteran mastery and contemporary cinematic trends. The festival screening in Busan offered audiences a chance to witness the evolution of Lee's directorial style, which has matured over the two decades since the filmmaker's last major feature release. Critics and festival attendees have engaged in lively discussions regarding the thematic richness of "To Be Ordinary," highlighting its distinct perspective and cultural resonance. As the Busan International Film Festival continues to celebrate groundbreaking cinema from across the globe, Lee Yun Chan's triumphant comeback serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of cinematic storytelling. The film's inclusion in competition not only honors the director's storied past but also boldly paves the way for a vibrant future in feature filmmaking, leaving audiences eager to see what projects the director might undertake next following this celebrated return to the screen.