Talk Asia

CNN's Talk Asia is a compelling window into the unique mix of cultures, industries, and individuals that reside within the vast Asian continent. Established in 2001, the programme has become a platform for intimate conversations with influential figures who are shaping Asia’s future trajectory in diverse fields such as politics, art, technology, business, fashion and sports. Shredding off the usual sound-bite style of many contemporary news shows, Talk Asia gives viewers a unique, in-depth look at the people who define and remain at the forefront of Asia's steady advancement on the global stage.

In each half-hour episode, the anchor speaks to a single guest for the entire duration, offering a sustained, comprehensive portrayal of the individual's personal and professional life. The conversation between the host and the guest unravels with a casual feel that sets the stage for the guest to reveal more than they would in a soundbite-type interview. Each interview cuts to the heart of the guest's life, their triumphs, their battles, their failures, and their contributions to society.

In 2018, Talk Asia delivered an array of intriguing and inspiring conversations as we see influential figures, either born and raised in Asia or with a significant link to it, delve into their life stories. The topics are as diverse as the backgrounds of the people getting interviewed—from revolutionary tech moguls and innovative chefs to transformative politicians and groundbreaking athletes.

One glance at the 2018 selection of guests and it is evident that Talk Asia is unparalleled in its dedication to promoting Asian achievement and contemporary issues. Dialogues with remarkable individuals such as Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli, award-winning Thai filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul, Chinese contemporary artist Ai Weiwei, and globally successful South Korean boy band BTS showcased their raw human perspective and shared some illuminating insights into their perspectives. This broad spectrum of personalities underlines the diversity of Asia and its impact on the global community.

Throwing light on current and vital issues, 2018 saw a particular focus on Asian innovation and global influence. Topics like the phenomenal rise of global technology companies in Asia, Asia's significant role in the global fashion industry, and the continent's emerging impact on popular culture across the world were expertly explored. Simultaneously, pressing subjects like human rights, political relations, and environmental challenges prevalent in the region were not shied away from.

The strength of the show relies on the competency of the hosts, who are proficient at driving the interviews in an engaging and enlightening manner. The 2018 line-up of skilled interviewers navigated the conversations skilfully, bringing out revealing admissions and pivotal insights, effectively humanising the often larger-than-life personas. Hosts like Kristie Lu Stout and Anna Coren possess the journalistic knowledge and understanding to tap into the complex realities of the continent. Their ability to prompt guests in a friendly yet assertive manner brings out the best in the interviews.

The production quality of Talk Asia is as diverse as its range of guests, varying from in-studio interviews to onsite at the heart of the action, reinforcing the immersive experience for viewers. In 2018, the show expertly employed the art of storytelling through intelligent scripting, balanced pacing, off-beat locations, and excellent cinematography.

In summary, Talk Asia, in 2018, provided viewers a comprehensive, enchanted journey around Asia, through captivating interviews and engaging discussions. It allowed conversations to flow naturally, providing a platform for guests to speak freely about their world views, personal journeys, and professional triumphs. As much as it is an enlightening platform for those unfamiliar with Asian culture and individuals, it is also an enriching experience for everyone interested in engaging dialogues that cut across various realms of human endeavor.

Talk Asia continues to be a powerful medium through which the Asian continent communicates its passions, its challenges, and its inspirations to the world. It not only portrays the region's varied essence, but it also encapsulates the profound depth and dimensions of the human experience. The show, in its essence, is a reflection of 21st-century Asia - diverse, complex, vibrant, and fiercely forward-thinking.