The Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation (HKFGP) is set to return to Singapore from 20 to 24 November 2024, with Anselm Chan’s acclaimed film “The Last Dance” chosen as the opening feature.
Organized by the Asian Film Awards Academy (AFAA) in collaboration with the Singapore Film Society (SFS), the festival aims to celebrate the creativity and cultural heritage of Hong Kong cinema.
Event Details
- Event: Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation (HKFGP) 2024
- Dates: 20 to 24 November 2024
- Opening Film: The Last Dance, directed by Anselm Chan
- Announcements: The complete program, guest list, and ticketing information will be released on 5 November 2024
A Star-Studded Opening Night
The highly anticipated “The Last Dance” will not only open the festival but also bring together two comedy legends, Dayo Wong and Michael Hui, for the first time in 32 years. Their on-screen reunion promises a moving portrayal that delves into life’s biggest themes.
The cast also includes Michelle Wai, CHU Pak Hong, and Catherine Chau, who add depth to this touching story.
Director Anselm Chan, who is best known for his Ready O/R Knot series, will attend the event in person. Sharing his excitement about the opening, he said,
“I’m honored that The Last Dance has been selected as the opening film for the Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation in Singapore. It holds special meaning for me and my team, and I look forward to meeting the audience and sharing our views on life and beliefs.”
Exploring Life, Death, and Cultural Rituals
The Last Dance offers a thoughtful exploration of Hong Kong’s funeral industry, dealing with themes of life, death, and relationships. It brings to the screen the ritual “Po Dei Juk,” inspired by the Chinese legend of Mulian, where a Taoist priest breaks open the “hell gate” with a fiery sword to free waiting souls.
This ritual, now part of Hong Kong’s intangible cultural heritage, provides a unique perspective on traditional practices and forms the basis of the film’s English title.
By highlighting these cultural elements, the film encourages audiences to reflect on life’s meaning and the rituals that shape how people cope with loss.
A Celebration of Hong Kong Cinema
The Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation showcases the richness of Hong Kong’s film industry by touring various Asian cities. Since 2021, the festival has connected filmmakers with international audiences in places like Bangkok, Jakarta, and Kuala Lumpur.
The event provides a platform to foster collaborations and promote Hong Kong cinema.
What to Expect at the Festival
The HKFGP 2024 will offer much more than film screenings, with various cultural events, discussions, and promotional activities showcasing the new generation of Hong Kong filmmakers.
Although The Last Dance will be a non-ticketed screening, more information on how to attend will be shared on 5 November 2024, along with details on the festival’s complete line-up.
For more information on The Last Dance, please visit: Instagram and Facebook
Watch The Last Dance trailer here:
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