Diaspora Storytelling: The Homecoming of Fresh Off Markham《敗走麥城》
Press Release from Chime Canada, With Notes from Fête Chinoise Editorial Team
Directed by Kurt Yuen 阮浚德, Cyrus Lo 羅懷恩 and Trevor Choi 蔡康凝
Starring: Edmond Clark 愛德蒙基勒, Jessica Chan 陳苡臻, Nian Chang 常念, Howard Li 李赫
In Cinemas January 17
Fresh Off Markham is a film that weaves together stories of immigration, identity, and community in a way that feels deeply personal to Chinese Canadians in Toronto and Markham. This debut feature by three Hong Kong-born directors—shot locally in Markham, Richmond Hill, and Scarborough—is a heartfelt tribute to the Chinese diaspora and their experiences in Canada.
Set against familiar backdrops like bustling Hong Kong-style cafés and vibrant shopping malls, the film captures spaces that hold a special place in the hearts of many in the community. Through its use of black humour, it delves into pressing issues such as housing affordability, safety, and cultural integration in a relatable way.
After a sold-out North American premiere at the 2024 Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival and a celebrated world premiere at the Hong Kong International Film Festival, Fresh Off Markham has been making waves on the international stage. Its success highlights the growing appetite for stories that amplify the diverse voices and experiences of the Chinese diaspora.
Self-funded by its directors, Fresh Off Markham signals a collective of storytellers and creators sharing the nuances of our heritage and bridging our past with the present. It’s a small yet meaningful step in a larger movement to celebrate the diaspora experience, inspiring a new wave of creators to share their stories. With such momentum, our voices will continue to enrich Canada’s cultural tapestry for generations to come.
SYNOPSIS
O'Shea, a diligent Uber driver in Markham, takes pride in his flawless 5.0-star rating as he hustles to make ends meet. One day, while waiting for his next passenger — a wealthy Hong Kong socialite named Circle — his ordinary shift takes an extraordinary turn. Two chaotic robbers from China, Shan and Kevin, fresh off a heist at a Japanese restaurant, barge into his car. What follows is a wild, culturally charged ride that’s equal parts comedic and heartfelt, as O'Shea navigates the clash of personalities and unexpected twists in this unpredictable journey.
Starring Edmond Clark 愛德蒙基勒, Jessica Chan 陳苡臻, Nian Chang 常念, Howard Li 李赫.
Fresh Off Markham Official Trailer
In English, Mandarin and Cantonese, with English and Chinese Subtitles
DIrector Kurt Yuen, Cyrus Lo and Trevor Choi
Kurt Yuen 阮浚德 was born and raised in Hong Kong. He is a graduate of the Hong Kong Film Director’s Guild (HKFDG) Masterclass and has been involved with numerous productions with the Hong Kong Television Networks (RTHK) and video production companies.
Cyrus Lo 羅懷恩 is a Chinese Canadian immigrant. His debut short, Aftershock, was an official selection at Vancouver Asian Film Festival. He strives to tell meaningful stories through the film medium.
Trevor 蔡康凝 is a graduate of the Hong Kong Film Director’s Guild Masterclass and has written and directed short film Ouroboros (2018), which screened at the 42nd Asian American International Film Festival. He is now working on post-production of Smashing Frank (2024), his solo debut feature length film.
Fresh off Markham is the directing trio’s first feature film.
Director’s Statement
Markham, a vibrant Canadian town known for its hard working Chinese community. This town, like many immigrant enclaves, represents both the aspirations and struggles of visible minorities striving to build better lives. In the aftermath of the global pandemic, Markham — a seemingly tranquil "Chinatown" — has seen an influx of new immigrants. With this growth comes a diverse mix of individuals, each bringing their own complexities and challenges.
Our story focuses on a few such individuals, navigating the trials of planting roots in unfamiliar soil. Navigating the challenges of taking root in a foreign land. The film is a fictional anthology and a dark comedy, offering a satirical lens on the unique experiences and conflicts faced by some immigrants as they adapt to life in a new country.
More from Fête Chiniose
Fresh Off Markham is a film that weaves together stories of immigration, identity, and community in a way that feels deeply personal to Chinese Canadians in Toronto and Markham. This debut feature by three Hong Kong-born directors—shot locally in Markham, Richmond Hill, and Scarborough—is a heartfelt tribute to the Chinese diaspora and their experiences in Canada.