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EVENT DESCRIPTION
Since its first edition in 1997, the Chinese Film Panorama has acted as a bridge, bringing a rich variety of Mainland Chinese cinema to Hong Kong audiences. In addition to showcasing the vitality of the Mainland film industry, it also creates a cultural dialogue between Hong Kong and the Mainland. This year, the festival features a selection of 12 films from the Mainland – covering various styles and themes, while also embodying deep insights into humanity, emotions and society.
Opening film Always Have Always Will kicks off with a road trip in which an adult and a child consider the meaning of life over journey full of laughter and tears. Enjoy Yourself brings controversial social topics to the silver screen, exploring marriage, family and the challenge of letting go. Day Dreaming highlights the absurdities of the adult world through a child’s perspective, giving audiences a chance to rediscover their inner child. Brief History of A Family uses the style of a thriller to dissect the effects of the “two-child policy” on contemporary families. Land of Broken Hearts creates a surreal and magical space to tell a story of self-discovery and love using an unconventional narrative and structure.
Viva La Vida uses comedy to package a story about life’s twilight, bringing hope and instilling the idea that love can defeat adversities. Stand By Me tackles the hot-button topic of marginalised teenagers, appealing to audiences to witness the resilience of life and the glimmer of kindness with human empathy. I Love You, to the Moon, and Back follows a married couple who are looking forward to reunite during Mid-autumn Festival, only to keep passing each other by. Tale of the Night takes viewers on an emotional journey through the city of Changsha, with its famous nightlife scene as the backdrop.
In addition to these films featuring young protagonists, Gone with the Boat depicts an elderly woman’s farewell through poetic images. Eye for an Eye 2 injects a new style of action into a traditional revenge story, creating a feast for the senses. The only animated film in this year’s line-up, I am What I am 2 carries on the inspiration and passion of its predecessor while adding exciting martial arts scenes to the mix. It is another showcase of Chinese animation’s prowess.
These twelve films show different sides of Chinese society and all its changes, but human nature and emotions are just as important as ever.
Read and download the full programme.
