- The Beverly Arts
- Nov 16
Updated: 6 days ago
Los Angeles, California, USA. 8th November, 2025. A special screening of the documentary film, AMAL | HOPE, took place at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music in Los Angeles, California. AMAL | HOPE has previously been shown in San Francisco, London, Copenhagen, and Tel Aviv, where it received enthusiastic reviews from various experts, scholars, and documentary filmmakers. The film will have another special screening at Zipper Hall at the Colburn School in Los Angeles on January 10, 2026, where Duo Amal will perform live, offering the audience an immersive musical experience. TV host Joey Zhou, founder of the Los Angeles Beverly Arts (LABA), and LABA Board member Douglas Ivanovich, founder of World Peace One, were among the guests at the screening.
The film was directed by Dr. Eros Zhao, a Chinese-American director, and co-produced by Templux Productions along with Beijing Times Light and Shadow Culture Media Co., Ltd. The executive producer is the well-known investor Mira Ledger, with Maria Giacchino as the producer, and Jin Wang, Chairman of Beijing Times Light and Shadow, as the co-producer. This powerful team behind the scenes guaranteed the film's world-class standards from its creation to production.
Dr. Eros Zhao with the award, "Best Short Documentary" at the Bal International Film Festival
In today's world, rife with division and conflict, this unique short documentary uses music as a bridge to convey a message of peace and understanding that transcends national borders and beliefs. For its outstanding artistic value and profound humanistic concern, it won the "Best Short Documentary Award" at the Bali International Film Festival, an Oscar-qualifying event. This is not only a high affirmation of the film's quality but also signifies its entry into the ranks of the world's top documentaries, demonstrating its strong momentum for an Oscar run.
AMAL | HOPE, set against the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, tells the legendary story of Israeli pianist Yaron Kohlberg and Palestinian pianist Bishara Haroni forming the internationally renowned Duo Amal through music, friendship, and cross-cultural exchange. The duo consists of Israeli pianist Yaron Kohlberg and Palestinian pianist Bishara Haroni.
Professor Michael Berry (pictured above, first from left), Director of the UCLA Center for Chinese Studies and Professor in the Department of Asian Languages and Cultures and the Department of Film (above), has served as a judge at several film festivals, including the Taiwan Golden Horse Awards, and has published numerous research works on Chinese cinema. Dr. Jeff Kryka (pictured below, first from left), a renowned Hollywood composer and musician, has contributed to film scores for movies such as "Star Wars" and "Jurassic World". Both discussions were highly engaging and enthusiastic, with many audience members participating in discussions with the creative team about the resonance between music, art, and humanity.
"Amal" means "hope" in Arabic. The film, through their musical journey, showcases how art can transcend cultural and political barriers, becoming a bridge of connection and reconciliation. The two musicians, sharing a common language of classical music, break down deep-seated social divisions, creating a symphony of unity, resilience, and the redemptive power of art. The film documents their journey from initial acquaintance to long-term collaboration, and how they used music to resolve barriers and create resonance in a politically tense environment. It also demonstrates how their music, transcending ethnic boundaries, has moved audiences worldwide.
The story begins in Israel. Bishara, immersed in Palestinian culture, developed a deep connection with classical music at a young age through a piano performance; Aaron, a prodigy who debuted at the age of nine, quickly became a shining star in the Israeli music scene. Despite the political turmoil of the 1980s and 90s that overshadowed their formative years, their vastly different backgrounds clashed through a shared passion for music and artistic resonance, sparking a lifelong friendship.
Professor Michael Berry (pictured above, first from left), Director of the UCLA Center for Chinese Studies and Professor in the Department of Asian Languages and Cultures and the Department of Film (above), has served as a judge at several film festivals, including the Taiwan Golden Horse Awards, and has published numerous research works on Chinese cinema and Dr. Eros Zhao.
This musical bond began by chance in 2008. When Aaron invited Bishara to perform together in a peace-themed concert, the astonishing synergy they displayed on the piano—and the thunderous response from the audience—suggested that they would dedicate their lives to the "Hope Duo." Living together in an apartment in Berlin, they devoted themselves to honing their skills, with up to ten hours of practice as a daily routine. This intense collaboration required bridging cultural differences while simultaneously fostering mutual growth, ultimately cultivating a profound understanding that transcended the stage—they not only created a unique musical "language" but also built bridges of mutual understanding in their lives.
Dr. Eros Zhao with guests
In Jerusalem, a land shrouded in political turmoil and violence, the documentary profoundly portrays how the music of Bisharah and Aaron transformed into a ray of light piercing the darkness. Through heartfelt interviews with the two pianists and their families, the film, with its delicate narrative, presents the extraordinary journey of AMAL | HOPE in forging musical bonds and sowing seeds of hope in this conflict-ridden region, conveying to the world the enduring power of art to heal hearts and bridge divides.
Some experts, after watching the film, stated that AMAL | HOPE is not merely a documentary showcasing musical talent, but a moving poem about hope, love, and human resonance. The film profoundly interprets how art can be a catalyst for peace and a bridge to harmony, awakening our reflection on shared humanity and hope for the future through its unique perspective.
Dr. Eros Zhao, an accomplished artist, was born in China and studied Chinese painting at the Central Academy of Fine Arts. He later pursued further studies in the United States, earning a Master of Fine Arts degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he also taught. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Chinese Art History from UCLA and a PhD in Arts Management from Shih Chien University in Taiwan.
Dr. Eros Zhao with pianist Bishara Haron and guests
As a creator spanning film and music, Dr. Zhao is dedicated to building dialogue between visual and performing arts through the production of classical music and film concerts. He has collaborated with institutions such as the Smithsonian Institution, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Denver Art Museum, and Steinway & Sons on numerous art documentaries, winning many international awards, including a nomination for Best Documentary Short at the 2024 Austin International Film Festival and several other international film festival awards. In addition to his filmmaking, he is a researcher and disseminator of Chinese calligraphy, painting, and Buddhist art. He was the first to translate Dr. Fu Shen's classic work, Studies in Connoisseurship, into Chinese, promoting academic exchange between Chinese and Western art.
TV host and LABA founder Joey Zhou, film producer Maria Giacchino, coordinator CuiXia, and Donna Smith, former CEO Universal Pictures
Dr. Eros Zhao also curates classical music and film music performances, connecting the worlds of visual and performing arts through his cross-disciplinary artistic practices. It was this unwavering pursuit of cross-disciplinary artistic expression that prompted Dr. Zhao to resolutely decide to document this deeply moving true story through film, a musical legend that transcended ethnicity and faith. The final work, with its sincere emotion and exquisite artistic expression, proves to the world that the power of music to move people knows no bounds, and that the pursuit of peace and hope is forever humanity's highest resonance.
TV host and LABA founder Joey Zhou, World Peach One (WP1) founder and LABA board member, Douglas Ivanovich, pianist Bishara Haron, and Professor Michael Berry ,Director of the UCLA Center for Chinese Studies
Dr.Zhao’s profound understanding of the cross-disciplinary expression of classical music and visual arts makes AMAL | HOPE not merely a documentary, but a moving visual symphony. Through delicate visual language and sincere interviews, the film presents this friendship that transcends ethnicity and faith, showcasing the power of art to dissolve hatred and evoke empathy in a turbulent world.
Director Dr. Eros Zhao and WP1 founder and LABA board member, Douglas Ivanovich
“Music has no boundaries; art is a universal language,” Zhao Shuo said in an interview with this newspaper. “Even in the most turbulent times, understanding and hope can still be heard.”
On the two evenings of screenings at the Lani Hall Theater of the UCLA School of Music and the Steinway Theatre in Pasadena, pianist Bishara Haroni gave a solo performance, his delicate playing and sincere emotion winning thunderous applause. Director Eros Zhao and producer Maria Giacchino took to the stage to interact with the audience, sharing the inspiration and creative process behind the film.
Director Dr. Eros Zhao and Bali Film Festival Chairman
The two evenings' live discussions were moderated by: Professor Michael Berry, Director of the UCLA Center for Chinese Studies and Professor of Asian Languages and Cultures and Film Studies, who has served as a judge at numerous film festivals including the Taiwan Golden Horse Awards and has published several research works on Chinese cinema; and Dr. Jeff Kryka, a renowned Hollywood composer and musician who has contributed to film scores for movies such as Star Wars and Jurassic World. Both discussions were highly engaging and enthusiastic, with many audience members participating and exploring the resonance between music, art, and humanity with the creative team.
Dr. Eros Zhao (R) and panelists present to the audience
During the exchange,Dr. Zhao said, "We are not trying to provide answers, but to listen, respond and understand through music. Music is sometimes complex and sometimes discordant, but it can always achieve perfect resonance at some moment - just like their story."
The Beverly Arts News is sponsored by Universal Artifacts Token, Token Works, USSCA Chinese Economic & Culture Association, World Peace One, MDSUN, XAVVI, Shennel Trading, InLight Foundation, Cynthia Clarté, Jiannan Huang Art Institute, Galaxy Community, Xiuwen Wang Art Studio, and The Beverly Arts Foundation
Eleventh Annual Festival Debuts Six World Premieres, Runs November 11-20 in Culver City
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) unveiled the first wave of programming for its 11th edition, naming the opening night, closing night, centerpiece and competition titles and the Asian Vision Program highlighting emerging filmmakers. At the same time, the festival announced its main jury lineup. This year's event amplifies AWFF's legacy, spotlights talent from across Asia—from visionary newcomers to acclaimed masters — and celebrates the artistry that continues to enrich and expand global cinema. AWFF 2025 takes place Nov. 11-20, 2025, at the Culver Theater in Culver City, California. Ticket information can be found at asianworldfilmfest.org.
AWFF's slate showcases notable films from more than 30 Asian countries. Over 10 days, the festival will screen more than 45 titles, including 20 official Oscar® submissions for Best International Feature Film. Fifteen films will screen in competition for Snow Leopard trophies for Best Film, Best Actor, Best Actress, Jury Discretionary Award, Special Jury Prize and Audience Award.
'There are six world premieres: Oscar submission "A Sad and Beautiful World" (Lebanon); "Love and Karma" (U.S.), directed by Ilara Venzara and Giovannie Espiritu; "Doggy" (Russia), directed by Slava Ross; "Sisterhood" (South Korea), directed by Yoon Eun-kyoung; "Chronicles of the Forgotten Genocide—The Kissinger Doctrine" (India), directed by Ramesh Sharma; and "The Favor" (South Korea), directed by Shin Joo.
Four titles are U.S. premieres: "Dragon Blade" (2015, celebrating its 10th anniversary), directed by Daniel Lee and starring Jackie Chan, Adrien Brody and Cyril Cusack; "Marching Boys" (Taiwan), directed by Jui-Chih Chiang; "The Summer Will End" (Russia), directed by Maksim Arbugaev and Vladimir Munkuev; and "Family Secrets" (South Korea), directed by Lee Sang-hoon. "Sore: Wife from the Future," directed by Yandy Laurens, is a North American premiere.
"From the beginning, our mission has been to celebrate the remarkable diversity of Asian filmmaking," said Georges N. Chamchoum, AWFF Executive Director. "Over the last 11 years, we have championed movies from more than 50 Asian nations and half a dozen autonomous Asian regions, each contributing a unique perspective and artistry. Their stories have thrilled us, moved us, inspired us, and provided a glimpse into the vibrant soul of Asia."
AWFF 2025's selections include acclaimed films from festivals worldwide. Among them are Cannes Palme d'Or winner "It Was Just an Accident" (Iran/France), directed by Jafar Panahi; "A Useful Ghost" (Thailand), directed by Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke and "Left-Handed Girl" (Taiwan), directed by Shih-Ching Tsou—both Cannes Critics' Week selections; "The Voice of Hind Rajab" (Tunisia), directed by Kaouther Ben Hania and "No Other Choice" (South Korea), directed by Park Chan-wook--both of which screened in competition at the Venice Film Festival; "Palestine 36" (Palestine), directed by Annemarie Jacir, a Toronto International Film Festival selection; and "All That's Left of You" (Jordan), directed by Cherien Dabis and "The Things You Kill" (Canada), directed by Alireza Khatami--both Sundance Film Festival selections.
Opening Night Film
* "No Other Choice" (South Korea) - black comedy/thriller directed by Park Chan-wook (Oscar submission)
Closing Night Film
* "The Voice of Hind Rajab" (Tunisia/France) - docudrama directed by Kaouther Ben Hania (Oscar submission)
Centerpiece Films
* "Palestine 36" (Palestine) – historical drama directed by Annemarie Jacir (Oscar submission)
* "Left-Handed Girl" (Taiwan) – family drama directed by Shih-Ching Tsou (Oscar submission)
Asian Vision Program
* "Voice" (Japan) – three-part family drama directed by Yukio Mishima
* "Evacuation" (Kazakhstan) – World War II drama directed by Farkhat Sharipov
* "Shalz" (Mongolia) – action-adventure directed by Amarsaikhan Baljinnyam
* "Pooja Sir" (Nepal) – crime thriller directed by Deepak Rauniyar
* "Doggy" (Russia) – romantic-thriller directed by Slava Ross
* "Marching Boys" (Taiwan) – inspirational drama directed by Chiang Jui-chih
* "The Summer Will End" (Republic of Sakha) – crime thriller directed by Maksim Arbugaev and Vladimir Munkuev
Feature Film Jury
* Binying (jury president) – award-winning Chinese filmmaker
* Anna Chi – celebrated Chinese filmmaker
* Najia Khaan - Afghan-British filmmaker and award-winning actress
* Joanne Goh – entertainment executive and producer
* Said Faraj – award-winning actor
* Woody Mu – film educator, producer and entertainment executive
Asian World Film Festival Sponsors
Samsung Onyx; Emporium Thai; Jackson Market; Samsung Onyx; New York Film Academy (NYFA); M Film Lab; Korean Cultural Center Los Angeles (KCCLA); Pechanga Resort Casino; TAICA Corporation; Taiwan Academy; Bruce Lee Foundation; My Personal Driver; WDA; The DCP Company
About Asian World Film Festival
Founded in 2015 by Kyrgyz public figure Sadyk Sher-Niyaz, the Asian World Film Festival celebrates cinematic excellence rooted in culture, storytelling and global collaboration. The festival brings the best of Asian cinema to Los Angeles and strengthens creative exchange between East and West. AWFF screens feature films from across Asia—from Japan to Turkey and from Russia to India and Southeast Asia. Renowned as a launchpad for awards-season contenders, AWFF remains the only Los Angeles–based festival presenting the majority of Asian submissions for the Academy Award® Best International Feature and the Golden Globe® Best Motion Picture, Non-English Language categories. AWFF is a nonprofit under Aitysh USA.
Follow AWFF on:
* X: @asianworldff
* Facebook: AsianWorldFilmFest
* Instagram: @asianworldff
* YouTube: Asian World Film Festival
SOURCE: Asian World Film Festival
The Beverly Arts News is sponsored by Universal Artifacts Token, Token Works, USSCA Chinese Economic & Culture Association, World Peace One, MDSUN, XAVVI, Shennel Trading, InLight Foundation, Cynthia Clarté, Jiannan Huang Art Institute, Galaxy Community, Xiuwen Wang Art Studio, and The Beverly Arts Foundation
- The Beverly Arts
- Oct 10
Updated: Oct 11
Artist Rosana Largo Rodríguez with her Gold Medal from the Society of Francophone Authors and Artists
Chantilly, France. 4th October, 2025. Artist Rosana Largo Rodríguez was honored with the Gold Medal by the Society of Francophone Authors and Artists, in an elegant ceremony at the Château de Montvillargenne in Chantilly, France. The venue featured a dream-like stage that seemed to have stepped out of a fairy tale, an enchanting backdrop, just perfect for the dress she designed for this occassion. This honor, championed by its President Aldina Mateus, the jury, and the entire team, is a testament to Rosana's artistic talents in hyper-realist painting.
Rosana Largo Rodríguez's Gold Medal from the Society of Francophone Authors and Artists
Dressed in a mesmerizing gown adorned with one of her own artworks, Rosana instantly captivated the crowd. “The audience smiled and commented in wonder… I turned around, moved, and all I could say was, ‘Merci beaucoup,’” she recalled. For her, receiving the award was nothing short of magical, one of those that reminds us why art has the power to move us without need for words. She dedicated the medal to the Virgin of Carejas of Paredes de Nava, fulfilling a deeply felt promise, and to her homeland, Castilla y León in Spain.
The audience enjoys the presentation of Rosana Largo Rodríguez
During the evening, with a cocktail reception and dinner in the château, one of her most artistic evening gowns was exhibited, the one that she wore to the Goya Awards Gala last year in Valladolid, Spain.
The Gold Medal certificate from the Society of Francophone Authors and Artists
After receiving the Gold Medal in Chantilly, Rosana's next stop was in Saint-Geneviève-des-
Bois, in Essonne, France. There she had the honor of receiving the First Prize in Hyperrealist Painting, for an art piece that created tremendous curiosity called “The Plastic Painting.” Rosana added some insight on the technique, "The complexity of this 100 × 100 cm painting lies in the fact that it is two pictures in one, first I painted the woman, and then the plastic that envelopes her, layer upon layer, playing with transparency, light, and the message.
Artist Rosana Largo Rodríguez with her painting "The Plastic Painting" and her certificate from Société des Artistes du Hurepoix
It was an unforgettable day for Rosana, full of admiration and affection. She thanked the town’s mayor, Frédéric Petitta, and the President of the Société des Artistes du Hurepoix Association, Jean-Jacques Curt, who had some nice words to say about her. The mayor gave her a compliment on her work, “We shall have to go and buy more paintings from Spain.”
Artist Rosana Largo Rodríguez with her certificate
"I am deeply proud to serve as the European Delegate of the International Artistic Organization, the Los Angeles Beverly Arts (LABA), headquartered in Beverly Hills, California. This position is an honor of the highest order, as LABA stands among the world’s most significant and influential artistic institutions, committed to promoting culture and nurturing the creative spirit across borders," Rosana stated.
Artist Rosana Largo Rodríguez at the celebration
She continued, "I am sincerely grateful for the unconditional support I have received from the entire LABA team. My heartfelt thanks go especially to the founder of LABA, TV host Joey Zhou, whose vision and dedication have shaped LABA into a beacon of artistic excellence and collaboration. It is a privilege and a joy to contribute to this vibrant international community, and to help further its mission of connecting artists, ideas, and audiences everywhere.""
Artist Rosana Largo Rodríguez at the celebration
About Rosana Rosana Largo Rodríguez
Rosana Largo Rodríguez is a Spanish artist who creates contemporary surrealist paintings inspired by classical techniques. She incorporates a variety of techniques and materials to create engaging visual elements and chromatic softness. Largo is the Director of the Museum of Science and Children's Literature in Spain and has exhibited her works in galleries throughout the world. She has received many awards including the Michelangelo International Prize in Rome in 2019, one of the most prestigious art awards to be received, as well as the Top 10 LABA-MIMV Artist Award in 2022, and LABA Icon Award in 2023.
The Beverly Arts News is sponsored by Universal Artifacts Token, Token Works, USSCA Chinese Economic & Culture Association, World Peace One, MDSUN, XAVVI, Shennel Trading, InLight Foundation, Cynthia Clarté, Jiannan Huang Art Institute, Galaxy Community, Xiuwen Wang Art Studio, and The Beverly Arts Foundation