Reception held in Tokyo to promote Hong Kong film industry (with photos)

     The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency and the Hong Kong Film Development Council (HKFDC) hosted a Hong Kong Night reception in Tokyo, Japan, tonight (October 31) to promote the vibrancy of Hong Kong’s film industry. The reception was supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Tokyo).
      
     The reception, which tied in with the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) and the "Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema" film tour in Japan, was attended by some 300 guests from Hong Kong, Japan and the overseas film sector.
      
     In his welcome remarks, the Chairman of the HKFDC, Dr Wilfred Wong, said he is delighted that five Hong Kong films have been selected for the TIFF, namely "Papa", "The Last Dance", "Montages of a Modern Motherhood", "Valley of the Shadow of Death", and "Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In". Additionally, Hong Kong actor Tony Leung has been appointed as President of the International Competition jury of the TIFF, with director Johnnie To serving as a jury member.
      
     "I am thrilled that five Hong Kong films have been selected for screening at the Tokyo International Film Festival this year, with Tony Leung serving as President of the International Competition jury, and director Johnnie To as a jury member. It demonstrates that Hong Kong film industry players, from iconic figures to directors and actors of the younger generation, are full of talent and energy. With their creativity and passion, I hope they will shine further on the international stage," said Dr Wong.
      
     Speaking at the reception, the Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Miss Winsome Au, said that in addition to the TIFF, a dedicated Hong Kong film festival, "Making Waves – Navigator of Hong Kong Cinema", presented by the Hong Kong International Film Festival Society will commence tomorrow (November 1) in Tokyo, followed by Osaka and Fukuoka in the latter part of November. In addition, a Hong Kong film poster and photo exhibition are also being held in these three cities.
      
      "Hong Kong film aesthetics have a special place in movie fans' hearts. Our cityscape, our street scene, our sense of art, our setting, are uniquely Hong Kong. We wish to showcase cinematic excellence to Japanese audiences, encourage them to explore Hong Kong's unique East-meets-West culture, and come visit us in Hong Kong," she said.
      
     At the reception, Dr Wong and Miss Au were joined by Assistant Commissioner for Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries and the Secretary-General of the Hong Kong Film Development Council, Mr Gary Mak, along with film talent from Hong Kong and overseas.