Hong Kong Filmmakers Meet Dubai Audiences Through Post-Screening Q&As
Filmmakers and cast members joined Dubai audiences for heartfelt Q&As, sharing stories behind the screen and reflections on universal themes.
Organised by the Asian Film Awards Academy in collaboration with Cinema Akil, and supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDAHK), the Film Development Fund, and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai, this year’s “Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation” in Dubai took place from March 22 to 28. Post-screening Q&As featured Hong Kong filmmakers including “Montages of a Modern Motherhood” director Oliver Siu Kuen Chan, “An Abandoned Team” director Thomas Lee, “Blossoms Under Somewhere” lead actress Sheena Chan, and film critic Patrick Suen. The films touched on themes like family, identity, and personal growth, resonating strongly with local audiences. The discussions were heartfelt and engaging, allowing Dubai viewers to connect more deeply with Hong Kong cinema.
“The experience of being a mother is something people can relate to—whether in Dubai or Hong Kong,” said Montages of a Modern Motherhood director Oliver Siu Kuen Chan during the post-screening Q&A. She described the film as a quiet portrait of an ordinary mother. Audience members raised questions about the depiction of motherhood, and Chan noted that, across cultures, many could relate to the pressures new mothers face. One of her aims, she added, was to spark awareness around the mental health of working mothers. She also praised lead actress Hedwig Tam Sin-yin’s performance, especially given the challenge of acting alongside a real baby: “She had to hold the baby, respond to its cues, and deliver her own emotions at the same time—it was incredibly difficult.”
“Blossoms Under Somewhere” marked Sheena Chan’s debut in a narrative feature. During the post-screening Q&A, she shared her process of building the character, noting that her own personality is quite different from Rachel’s. By observing friends and mimicking their traits, she gradually found her way into the role. Chan also reflected on her experience in Dubai, saying she was struck by the welcoming atmosphere at Cinema Akil: “The seats were like sofas—it felt like watching a film at home.” She noted that the audience was especially expressive: “They reacted warmly and weren’t shy about showing their emotions—even gasping during the screening.” She added that she was glad the film connected with viewers.
“An Abandoned Team”, directed by Thomas Lee, is set around an animal shelter and explores themes of abandonment and care. During the post-screening Q&A, Lee shared his creative approach and said he found the questions from the Dubai audience thoughtful and memorable. One particularly touching moment occurred during the screening, when a young viewer burst into tears during a scene involving a dog’s death. After the film, Lee approached the child to offer comfort—an experience he said was both surprising and deeply moving.
The “Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation” in Dubai featured eight Hong Kong films, including “An Abandoned Team” by Thomas Lee, “Blossoms Under Somewhere” by Riley Yip, “Montages of a Modern Motherhood” by Oliver Siu Kuen Chan, “Last Song for You” by Jill Leung, “Cesium Fallout” by Anthony Pun, “Papa” by Philip Yung, “The Last Dance” by Anselm Chan, and a newly restored 4K version of the Hong Kong classic “The Bride with White Hair” directed by Ronny Yu. With filmmakers and cast members attending post-screening talks, the event offered Dubai audiences a unique chance to connect with the creative voices behind a new wave of Hong Kong cinema.
Please contact us if any questions,
Email: info@afa-academy.com
Tel: +852 3195 0609
Website: www.afa-academy.com
