In Conversation Sparks Dynamic Exchanges
The four in Conversation sessions brought together filmmakers from across Asia for in-depth exchanges, spanning from editing, to directing and acting, offering diverse creative perspectives and generating engaging discussions.
Organized by the Asian Film Awards Academy, supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency and the Film Development Fund, the 4 panel discussions received enthusiastic responses, bringing together film lovers, industry professionals, and students from Hong Kong and abroad, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. The programme brought together filmmakers from across Asia to engage in in-depth exchanges. In Beyond the Ordinary Roles hosted by Hong Kong actor Power CHAN, the session brought Korean actor JO Woo-jin into conversation. JO shared that he grew up watching Hong Kong films, citing John WOO’s A Better Tomorrow as a key influence, and expressed excitement about being in Hong Kong. When asked about a potential collaboration, the lively interaction of the two actors drew laughter from the audience, highlighting the chemistry and mutual appreciation between actors across regions.
The four In Conversation sessions brought together filmmakers from across Asia for in-depth exchanges, spanning from editing, to directing and acting, offering diverse creative perspectives and generating engaging discussions.
The Rhythm of Cinema
David RICHARDSON: Editing cannot make a bad film good
The first session featured award-winning editors Matthieu LACLAU and David RICHARDSON, moderated by Kevin MA. The two editors, known for their distinct styles, discussed their collaborations with director JIA Zhangke and Milkyway Image. Speaking about the role of editing, David noted, “Editing cannot make a bad film good, but it can make a good film better,” added humorously that editing is also about “minimising discomfort for the audience.” From drama to documentary, they unfold the art of editing where they have been conducting the rhythm for cinema which has spoken to the hearts of many audiences.
Local Stories, Global Vision
TSOU Shih-Ching: You have to present the most truthful version of your story
Hosted by Hong Kong director Adam WONG, this session featured Leon LE (Ky Nam Inn) and TSOU Shih-Ching (Left-Handed Girl). Both filmmakers create works deeply rooted in their local contexts that have gained global recognition. Both directors emphasized the importance of believing in one’s own stories. TSOU remarked, “No matter what, you have to present the most truthful version of your story,” while Leon added, “Even with limited resources, you find another way to tell it.” encouraging aspiring filmmakers to stay true to their original creative intentions.
Beyond the Ordinary Roles
JO Woo-jin: Acting is never an individual effort
Hosted by Hong Kong actor Power CHAN, this session brought together with Korean actor JO Woo-jin to discuss the journey of growing alongside their roles. Both agreed that detaching from characters can be difficult. CHAN recalled being deeply affected by roles early in his stage career, while JO shared that returning to everyday life and connecting with others helps restore emotional balance. “Acting is never an individual effort—it is something achieved together with your co-actors and the entire team,” he said. He also reflected on how each role contributes to his professional growth and understanding of human nature.
Reframing the Girl on Screen
9m88: You don’t have to be the best
The final session featured cross-disciplinary creators 9m88 and Angela YUEN, moderated by DJ Elvin WONG. The discussion explored performance, creativity, and female identity. Angela reflected on overcoming personal lows through immersion in books and films, with a strong desire to act driving her forward. Speaking about her role in The Narrow Road, she said, “You can’t feel sorry for the world. You must ‘fight against’ it.” 9m88 discussed balancing her dual identity as a singer and actress, encouraging audiences to pursue their passions, “You don’t have to be the best—by doing it, you’re already succeeding.”
ASIAN FILM AWARDS ACADEMY
The Asian Film Awards Academy is a non-profit organization founded by the Busan International Film Festival, the Hong Kong International Film Festival and the Tokyo International Film Festival. In addition to presenting the annual Asian Film Awards, the Academy organizes screenings, exchange programmes and professional development initiatives to promote Asian cinema and nurture industry talent.
Our year-round events and programmes are held with the objectives to promote Asian films to a wider audience, expand the film market within Asia, and build and sustain connections among Hong Kong and international film professionals. Masterclass Series – in conversation with filmmakers, Journey to the fest – Student Visit to International Film Festivals, Asian Cinerama – Film Roadshow, and Young Film Professionals Programme – overseas training and work-placement, are examples of our year-round programmes. These programmes couldn’t have been held successfully without the financial support of the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency and Film Development Fund of the HKSAR Government. AFAA has worked to promote, educate, inform and develop knowledge, skills and interest in Asian cinema among the industry, students and audiences in Asia and beyond with the support of film festivals and cultural organizations.
CULTURAL AND CREATIVE INDUSTRIES DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CCIDAHK)
Under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) (formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK)) is a dedicated office, aiming to spearhead the development of cultural and creative industries in Hong Kong.
FILM DEVELOPMENT FUND
The Film Development Fund (FDF) was first set up by the Government in 1999 to support projects conducive to the long-term development of the film industry in Hong Kong, including: part-financing small-to-medium budget film productions; enhancing efforts to promote Hong Kong films in the Mainland and overseas; enhancing initiatives to train talents in various aspects of film production and distribution; and enhancing the interest and appreciation of Hong Kong films by the local audience.
