The Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation (HKAF) is set to present the first-ever ASEAN Film Festival (AFF) in Hong Kong, running from Aug. 4 to 19. As a non-profit event, the AFF aims to showcase a thoughtfully curated selection of films at venues like M+ Cinema, Miller Theater at Asia Society, and the sky (Olympian City).
The festival’s primary goal is to bridge cultural gaps and promote cross-cultural awareness by using the powerful art of storytelling through cinema. Through this showcase, Hong Kong audiences will be treated to a diverse and beautiful representation of ASEAN cultures and customs.
One of the central themes of the ASEAN Film Festival is to engage the younger generation in Hong Kong and ASEAN students by inviting over 600 local youths to attend 21 film screenings. These screenings will be accompanied by insightful sharing sessions with featured directors and cast members, creating a unique opportunity for the youth to interact with creative talents and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s cultures.
The festival’s significance is further emphasized by HK-ASEAN Foundation Chairman, Mr. Daryl Ng, who highlights its mission to promote mutual understanding between Hong Kong and the ASEAN nations. The AFF seeks to build upon these efforts and showcase the immense creative talent present in ASEAN countries, strengthening the ties between the regions’ film industries.
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The AFF program boasts an impressive lineup of films from award-winning directors, providing audiences with a glimpse into the rich heritage and diverse cultures of the nations they represent. Some of the headlining screenings include “Before, Now and Then” by Kamila Andini from Indonesia, “Anwar: The Untold Story” by Viva Westi from Malaysia, “The Legend of Muay Thai: 9 Satra” by Nat Yoswatananont and Gun Phansuwon from Thailand, “White Building” by Kavich Neang from Cambodia, and “The Diam Diam Era 2” by Jack Neo from Singapore. This compelling selection is sure to captivate and enlighten audiences about the depth and richness of ASEAN cinema.
For those eager to experience the charm of Southeast Asian cinema, tickets for the public screenings are now available online through the M+ Cinema and the sky (Olympian City) websites. This inaugural ASEAN Film Festival promises to be an exceptional cinematic journey, celebrating the vibrant tapestry of cultures that define the ASEAN region while fostering cultural appreciation and understanding in the heart of Hong Kong.
Source : TheBeatAsia
