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Tony Rayns, critic who championed Asian cinema, dies at 76

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • British film critic Tony Rayns, known for championing Asian cinema, has died at age 76.
  • Rayns was found dead at his London home after returning from a film festival.
  • He was instrumental in introducing filmmakers like Hou Hsiao-hsien and Wong Kar-wai to Western audiences and supported emerging talents like Bong Joon-ho.

Tony Rayns, a British film critic celebrated for his early and consistent championing of Asian cinema, has died at the age of 76. He was found deceased at his London home on May 7, several days after returning from the Bologna Film Festival. It is believed he may have suffered an accident while attempting to move a heavy suitcase up his stairs.

Ji-seok, if you're going to have your secretary send faxes, at least get my name spelling right. It's Rayns, not Raynes.

— Tony RaynsRayns's sharp-witted response to a fax from the Busan International Film Festival, highlighting his meticulousness and directness.

Rayns was a significant figure in introducing Asian filmmakers, including Hou Hsiao-hsien, Edward Yang, and Wong Kar-wai, to Western audiences through his writings in British film magazines starting in the 1970s. He also played a crucial role in showcasing Bong Joon-ho's early short film, "Downpour," to audiences in Vancouver and Hong Kong in 1994.

I'd rather my food be dead before I eat it.

— Tony RaynsRayns's humorous remark upon seeing live octopus, showcasing his personality.

His involvement with the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) was particularly impactful. From around 1995, Rayns frequently visited Busan, actively persuading city officials and festival organizers about the importance and value of the festival. He was instrumental in the launch of BIFF in 1996 and continued to voice his support for the festival's independence and autonomy in the 2000s. The article suggests Busan owes him a significant debt for his contributions.

Tony was someone who recognized the potential of Asian cinema before the world did.

— Kim Young-deokKim Young-deok, BIFF Market Committee Chair, reflects on Rayns's pioneering role in promoting Asian films.

Beyond his critical work, Rayns was known for his passionate advocacy for emerging talent and his often-blunt critiques. Despite his sharp tongue, which sometimes caused offense, he was respected for his dedication to cinema. The author, Kim Young-deok, who served as the market committee chair for BIFF, reflects on Rayns's life as a "precariat" navigating the film festival circuit, emphasizing the deep friendships forged in this transient world. Rayns's legacy is one of unwavering support for Asian cinema and a life dedicated to discovering and promoting new cinematic voices.

He was a passionate cinephile who loved Asian cinema and young talent.

— Kim Young-deokKim Young-deok describes Rayns's dedication to discovering and supporting new filmmakers.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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