The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society’s (HKIFF) Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) has unveiled an exciting slate of 15 work-in-progress features, showcasing a dynamic blend of established filmmakers and emerging talents from across Asia. These projects will be presented at the expanded HKIFF Industry Project Market, set to take place from March 17 to 19, coinciding with Hong Kong’s FilMart. This year’s lineup complements the previously announced 25 in-development projects, further cementing HAF’s reputation as a hub for innovative storytelling and cinematic excellence. The selected works promise to captivate audiences with their diverse themes, genres, and creative visions, offering a glimpse into the future of Asian cinema.
Leading this impressive roster are new works from some of Asia’s most acclaimed directors. Huang Ji, known for her Golden Horse-winning achievements, joins forces with Otsuka Ryuji in “A Woman Builds,” a poignant tale of a Chinese woman separated from her Japanese family during the COVID-19 pandemic and her determination to build a house. This film, with its timely and universal themes, is sure to resonate deeply. Meanwhile, Qiu Jiongjiong, whose “A New Old Play” earned a Special Jury Prize at Locarno, returns with “Fuxi: Joy in Four Chapters,” a dark comedy centered around Sichuan cuisine. The film features Lee Kang-Sheng, known for his role in “Stranger Eyes,” adding star power to this intriguing project.
The slate also includes several other notable works that highlight the diversity of storytelling in contemporary Asian cinema. Chong Keat Aun’s “Mother Bhumi” stars Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing in a gripping mystery about a widowed farmer grappling with the sudden death of her husband. Sakamoto Yukari’s “White Flowers and Fruits,” produced by Yamamoto Teruhisa of “Drive My Car” fame, delves into the supernatural happenings at a boarding school, promising a haunting narrative. Yashasvi Juyal’s “The Ink-Stained Hand and the Missing Thumb” offers a poignant drama about migrant workers, shedding light on the struggles of this often-overlooked community. These projects not only showcase the breadth of talent in Asia but also tackle complex social and emotional themes with sensitivity and depth.
Among the lineup are several debut projects that highlight the fresh perspectives of new filmmakers. Indonesian actor Reza Rahadian makes his directorial debut with “Pangku,” a bold film addressing the controversial practice of lap-sitting in coffee shops, sparking conversations about social norms and morality. Similarly, Tribeny Rai’s “Shape of Momo” earned top honors at India’s NFDC Film Bazaar WIP lab, signaling a promising start to his career. These debuts underscore the festival’s commitment to nurturing emerging voices and providing a platform for their unique stories to shine.
The selection also features a wide range of genres, from romance to thriller, ensuring there is something for every audience. Isabel Sandoval’s “Moonglow,” set in 1970s Manila, stars the director alongside Arjo Atayde in a tale of love and identity. Wang Tong’s “Wild Nights, Tamed Beasts” takes a darker turn, exploring a twisted romance between a zookeeper and a serial killer, played by Wan Qian and Qu Chuxiao. These genre-driven films not only showcase the versatility of Asian storytelling but also demonstrate the filmmakers’ ability to craft compelling narratives that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Youth and coming-of-age themes are also prominently featured in the lineup. Ang Geck Geck’s “Ah Girl” tells the story of a seven-year-old caught between her divorced parents, offering a heartwarming yet poignant look at the challenges of childhood. Tracy Choi’s “Girlfriends” follows a tri-city romance spanning Macau, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, starring Jennifer Yu and Fish Liew. Gong Yiwen’s “Her First Taste” adopts a documentary-style approach to capture the raw emotions of adolescence, while Li Jing’s “Name and Hair” explores a teenage girl’s journey of self-discovery and identity transformation. Rounding out the selection are emerging filmmakers like Emetjan Memet, whose “Good Drink Pub” blends romance and comedy in a Xinjiang-set tale, and Liu Xing’s “Say My Name,” a story of identity, deception, and love.
The forum’s impact extends beyond the current selections, as several past projects have made waves in international festivals. Huo Meng’s “Living the Land” is competing for the prestigious Golden Bear at Berlin, while Jun Li’s “Queerpanorama” and Min Kyu-dong’s “Pag-wa” are screening in the Panorama and Special sections, respectively. Li Dongmei’s “The Fruit” recently premiered in Rotterdam’s Tiger Competition, further highlighting the forum’s track record of launching successful films. These achievements underscore HAF’s role as a launching pad for Asia’s most promising filmmakers, connecting them with global audiences and industry professionals.
The selected projects will participate in open pitch sessions at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, providing industry insiders with an exclusive first look at these upcoming features. This year’s HAF lineup is a testament to the richness and diversity of Asian cinema, offering a mix of established auteurs and fresh talent that promises to captivate audiences and inspire filmmakers alike.
