In a remarkable announcement by the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation (HKAF), Hong Kong is set to host the pioneering ASEAN Film Festival (AFF) from the 4th to the 19th of August 2023. This non-profit initiative, fueled by the strong alliance between HKAF and the Consulate General Offices of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Hong Kong along with other benefactors, promises to be a veritable cultural feast.
In a significant collaboration, the festival is co-presented by M+ and Asia Society Hong Kong Center, with screenings scheduled across prestigious venues like M+ Cinema, Miller Theater at Asia Society, and the Olympian City’s the sky.
AFF: Fostering Cultural Understanding through Films
AFF endeavours to forge a deeper cross-cultural comprehension by narrating captivating tales of ASEAN’s myriad cultures and customs through the medium of films. Over the two-week period, 21 film screenings will welcome more than 600 local Hong Kong students and youth, alongside ASEAN students in the city. The festival experience will be heightened by special sharing sessions with invited directors and cast members.
HKAF’s Chairman, Mr. Daryl Ng, emphasizes, “ASEAN FILM FESTIVAL is a platform to elevate cross-cultural awareness in the community, especially among the younger generation. Given how hot the weather has been, I think the young people will enjoy spending time in a cool theatre and learning about Southeast Asia through its films. I would like to especially thank the Consul Generals of ASEAN and other partners, including Asia Society, M+, the sky (Olympian City), Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Invest Hong Kong, and Our Hong Kong Foundation, for making this inaugural ASEAN Film Festival possible in Hong Kong.”
Spotlight on ASEAN Filmmaking Talent in Hong Kong
The AFF initiative aims to showcase the dynamic ASEAN film industry in Hong Kong, a city globally recognised as an Asian cinematic nucleus. This endeavour complements the HKSAR government’s ongoing efforts to bolster local creative industries and foster collaborative partnerships between Hong Kong and other Asian countries.
The festival’s selection of films, hailing from award-winning directors across ASEAN, offers an intimate glimpse into the diverse culture and rich heritage of the nations they represent. Some of the spotlight features include “Before, Now and Then” by Indonesian director Kamila Andini, “Anwar: The Untold Story” by Malaysian director Viva Westi, and “White Building” by Cambodian director Kavich Neang, among others.
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Reserve Your Seats Now for This Unforgettable Cultural Journey
To learn more about the comprehensive line-up, please refer to the appendix or visit the ASEAN Film Festival’s official website at https://aseanfilmfest.org/.
Public screening tickets are available for online booking through the M+ Cinema and the sky (Olympian City) websites. Immerse yourself in this unique cultural immersion, showcasing the finest of Southeast Asian cinema.
