New York ETO fetes Hong Kong films in Chicago
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (HKETONY) brings six thrilling Hong Kong movies to Season 16 of Chicago's boutique film festival, Asian Pop-Up Cinema (APUC). On March 14 , before the North American premiere of Philip Yung's "Where the Wind Blows", the HKETONY hosted a special reception celebrating spring with friends in the Midwest region, and honouring lead actor of the movie Aaron Kwok.
Welcoming guests at the reception, the Director of the HKETONY Candy Nip said, "Hong Kong has one of the largest and most dynamic film industries in the world, with its distinctive identity. We are proud to see our creative talents shine on the silver screen."
In recognition of his remarkable contribution to the industry, the APUC presented Kwok with the Award for Excellent Achievement in Film. At the award presentation ceremony, Ms Nip praised Kwok for being one of the most dedicated and versatile artists in Hong Kong.
She also took the opportunity to share with the audience the recently launched “Hello Hong Kong” global promotional campaign. "Hong Kong is now fully open to visitors from all around the world, with myriad exciting offers, from dining to shopping, from business to entertainment. Please come to rediscover our city," she added.
Prior to the March 31 full-house screening of the festival’s centerpiece film “A Guilty Conscience”, the APUC presented the Bright Star Award to actress Renci Yeung in recognition of her demonstrated impact and potential. Yeung was joined by the film’s director Jack Ng Wai-lun in the post-screening question and answer session.
At the award ceremony, the Deputy Director of the HKETONY, Ms Erica Lam, congratulated and thanked Yeung for her hard work and dedication to her craft and in promoting Hong Kong films overseas.
Another Hong Kong film director Ka Sing Fung presented the North American premiere of his debut “Lost Love” on April 1.
Three other Hong Kong productions were featured in this season’s APUC: “The Sparring Partner”, “Remember What I Forgot” and “Port of Call”.