Bangkok: A look at the films nominated for the 34th Suphanahong Awards in 2025 reveals a diverse range of genres and a parade of new actors making their debut. Every year, the criteria for judging the Suphanahong Awards are closely watched, especially this year. After the announcement of the nominees in various categories, it garnered significant attention from film enthusiasts due to the increased diversity of films nominated in each category. Recently, representatives from each category's judging committee - Ms. Thananchonok Suban Na Ayutthaya (representing the 34th Suphanahong Awards organizing committee), Mr. Patiphan Bunditrik (representing the directors' group), Ms. Intira Charoenpura (representing the actors' group), and Mr. Wirat Hengkongdee (representing the producers' group) - revealed that being part of the judging process for the 34th Suphanahong Awards in 2025 is just as exciting and suspenseful as in previous years.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Thanatchanok stated that this year's judging criteria will still use the RandO system, like last year, which is a transparent system. The selection will be made by a panel of experts, followed by an open vote. She is confident that the results will please both those in front of and behind the camera. When asked if judging this year would be difficult, she admitted that seeing the list of nominees, it would likely be challenging. She acknowledged that there are many good and diverse films to be released in 2025, and she wishes she could give awards to all of them. She is unsure who will ultimately win the open vote.
Regarding the acting awards, Ms. Intira Charoenpura stated that the nominees have become more diverse. Previously, acting awards were limited to dramas and life-drama films, but this year includes action, horror, and independent films, which are quite outstanding. While horror films generally prioritize suspense, they've been upgraded in every aspect, with scripts enabling performances that maintain the horror element. As for the acting categories, she noted that films often present unbelievable elements, such as a living vacuum cleaner or ghosts, which are unproven. However, the audience's belief is shaped by the production design and the actors' ability to persuade them. "Realism" here refers to realism within the film itself. In the acting categories, she expressed delight at seeing more young nominees, noting the increasing number of talented individuals whose performances are of high quality. She believes they can pass the baton to the next generation, as everyone is dedicated to delivering their roles a nd contributing to the advancement of the Thai film industry.
Patiphan Bunditrik said that, regarding awards for directing, he feels that award ceremonies support the diversity of films. Even independent films that have grown from film festivals still have a certain freshness that is passed on to the directors. From the perspective of someone working in this field, it is encouraging for new filmmakers who are starting to make their own films.
Wirat Hengkongdee revealed that the producer's part of the awards ceremony was very interesting. Just the nominations alone represented every genre, showing that every genre can produce quality films in its own way. Simply producing quality films will be noticed. The Suphanahong Awards aren't popular votes from the general public; they're votes from people in the industry. The judges are those who understand the quality of film. In each category, the voters are people who understand that particular field. It's truly an award from within the industry. Regarding whether international screenings affect the decision, he said it wouldn't be entirely true, as it provides some insight into the film's merits. It might make the judges wonder why a film was shown abroad, and they can investigate further.