Hong Kong—Chan, a trailblazer in Hong Kong’s independent cinema scene, has left an indelible mark by delving into the ever-evolving cosmopolitan landscape, exploring identity crises, and confronting political challenges. Notably, his acclaimed film “Made in Hong Kong” stands as a testament to his unique storytelling.
Scheduled from March 28 to April 8, HKIFF48 will showcase Chan’s ten most influential works, accompanied by a commemorative book release and a limited edition Moleskine notebook collaboration. As part of the festivities, the maverick filmmaker will engage in a Face-to-Face session, sharing his insights and vision with the public.
Image Courtesy of HK International Film Festival Society.
In tandem with the Filmmaker-in-Focus announcement, HKIFFS revealed a captivating second key visual for HKIFF48, featuring Tai O, the remote fishing village backdrop of Chan’s award-winning “Three Husbands.”
Albert Lee, Executive Director of the Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (HKIFFS), paid tribute to Chan’s enduring contribution to local cinema, praising his ability to capture the essence of Hong Kong society. Lee stated, “His films undoubtedly bear the mark of being ‘made in Hong Kong’ with their gritty and raw style, offering insightful portrayals of working-class life.”
The complete program, including details on Chan’s Face-to-Face session, will be unveiled by HKIFFS in early March.
Image Courtesy of HK International Film Festival Society.
Fruit Chan, who migrated from Hainan to Hong Kong in his youth, gained valuable experience at the Film Culture Centre before making his mark in the film industry. His journey from a production assistant to an independent director began with “Finale in Blood.”
In 1997, Chan gained widespread acclaim with “Made in Hong Kong,” a low-budget, multiple award-winning film that served as a poignant allegory for the city’s uncertain future. This marked the beginning of his Reunification Trilogy, along with “The Longest Summer” and “Little Cheung.”
Chan’s Prostitution Trilogy, comprising “Durian Durian,” “Hollywood Hong Kong,” and “Three Husbands,” explores Hong Kong’s complex relationship with Mainland China through the lives of sex workers.
A versatile and innovative filmmaker, Chan showcased unrestrained skills across genres. From the shot-on-DV feature “Public Toilet,” examining the human condition, to the horror-drama “Dumplings,” reflecting society’s distorted psyche, his work remained deeply connected to Hong Kong, depicting local life with meticulous detail.
“The Midnight After” marked Chan’s return with a darkly comic apocalyptic thriller, offering a satirical allegory for Hong Kong. He also ventured into documentary filmmaking with “My City,” portraying poet Xi Xi against the backdrop of the city’s transformation.
Chan’s keen eye for talent catapulted actors like Sam Lee, Chui Tien-you, Wong You-nam, Qin Hailu, and Jo Koo to successful careers. In recent years, he embraced the role of a mentor, producing films like Oliver Chan’s “Still Human.”
Fruit Chan’s Filmmaker-in-Focus series at HKIFF48 will feature the following ten films:
- 1997: Made in Hong Kong
- 1998: The Longest Summer
- 1999: Little Cheung
- 2000: Durian Durian
- 2001: Hollywood Hong Kong
- 2002: Public Toilet
- 2004: Dumplings
- 2014: The Midnight After
- 2015: My City
- 2018: Three Husbands