How did the organizers of Sundance Asia celebrate their return to Taiwan this year? By growing the festival in every way possible.

For the second year in a row, Sundance Asia returned to Taipei. The expansion of the festival’s programming reflected Taiwan’s efforts to boost the region’s film industry. The festival was extended from three to five days. Last year, only three feature films were screened. This time, 15 films, including “Didi,” “Sujo,” “Little Death” and “Your Monster,” were among the films that showcased the best of independent American storytelling. Last year, only two filmmakers were present; this time, there were eight. The festival also doubled the size of its panels and master classes.

Not only are films screened and panels held, but the organizers also help to promote the country as a hub for local and international filmmakers.

“It was a great way for us to grow the festival in Taiwan,” said Kim Yutani, Sundance Film Festival director of programming. “That’s the core of what we do; connecting those filmmakers with the audience.” Yutani continued, “It was incredibly rewarding to be able to do it at this level.”