In the pantheon of Hong Kong cinema, Johnnie To Kei-fung stands as a colossus. With a career spanning over five decades, To has evolved from a commercial success to an internationally acclaimed auteur, leaving an indelible mark on the industry alongside contemporaries such as Wong Kar-wai, Tsui Hark, and John Woo.
Read MorePhilip Yung’s 翁子光 Papa《爸爸》arrives in North American cinemas on March 14. Inspired by a real 2010 case in Hong Kong, the film follows a father grappling with unimaginable loss after his son, who suffers from schizophrenia, kills his wife and daughter. Sean Lau delivers a career-defining performance, capturing the depths of a father’s sorrow and resilience.
Read MoreFresh 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.
Read MoreRags 2 Richmond has quickly captured the hearts and attention of audiences since its December 2024 launch. This digital short series blends early 2000s hip-hop, R&B, and Asian pop culture, offering a uniquely Canadian perspective set in Richmond, BC. The show follows ambitious musicians and a controversial beauty pageant, featuring an all-star cast including Jonathan Wong, Peter Sudarso, Nancy Sit, and 2024 Miss Chinese International Pageant contestants.
Read MoreIn her debut feature, screenwriter Ho Miu Ki masterfully explores the complexities of human connection in Love Lies—a poignant blend of drama and comedy. The film follows the intertwined lives of two very different people, brought together by an online scam, and speaks to anyone who has faced the challenges of love and relationships in the modern world. It also delves into the loneliness that often comes with navigating life in a digital age.
Read MoreIn her debut feature, screenwriter Ho Miu Ki masterfully explores the complexities of human connection in Love Lies—a poignant blend of drama and comedy. The film follows the intertwined lives of two very different people, brought together by an online scam, and speaks to anyone who has faced the challenges of love and relationships in the modern world. It also delves into the loneliness that often comes with navigating life in a digital age.
Read MoreLegendary Taiwanese director Wei Te-Sheng brings his acclaimed film BIG to Canada, premiering on November 1, 2024. Known for his blockbuster Cape No. 7, Wei Te-Sheng explores life’s complexities through laughter and tears, highlighting the profound value of living within a hospital. The film blends live-action and animation, featuring the work of Takumi Tanji, the acclaimed animator and art director behind Your Name and Suzume. This heartfelt narrative captures the voices of children navigating life changes alongside their families and fellow patients, conveying joy and sorrow throughout the journey while celebrating the courage to fight until the end.
Read MoreIn Sing My Song, Barbara K. Lee explores why there are no Asian pop stars in North America. Through her journey as a songwriter and interviews with artists like Far East Movement, she uncovers the challenges faced by Asian musicians and their struggle for mainstream recognition.
Read MoreFollowing Twilight’s Kiss (2019), director Ray Yeung returns with his latest feature, All Shall Be Well (2024), which explores another poignant chapter in the lives of same-sex couples in Hong Kong. Taking a different approach from Twilight’s Kiss, this film delves into family dynamics, revealing the struggles and societal pressures that shape relationships. It also touches on the theme of legacy, encouraging audiences to reflect on how to secure a future for their loved ones. Winner of the 74th Teddy Award for Best Feature Film, All Shall Be Well will be screened in Toronto alongside Twilight’s Kiss, offering a rare chance to experience both of Yeung’s celebrated works—especially for those who missed Twilight’s Kiss during its original release due to the pandemic. Don’t miss this opportunity to see them together!
Read MoreOn September 7th, 2024, the 5th Annual Female Filmmaker Dinner, hosted by CHANEL in partnership with Variety Magazine, took place at Soho House during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The event celebrated the CHANEL Women Creators’ Network and the significant role of women in film.
Read MoreWith TIFF 2024 wrapping up this weekend, we delve into this year's remarkable selection of Asian films. These films offer deep insights into the Chinese and Chinese-Canadian experience, each providing a unique perspective on the diverse narratives and identities within our communities. Explore these highlights with us to uncover how they shed light on different aspects of our diaspora, enhancing our understanding of both our shared and distinct experiences.
Read MoreAsian cinema continues to make its mark at TIFF, and we’re excited to see its evolving presence and representation. In 2022, Michelle Yeoh was honoured with the TIFF Share Her Journey Groundbreaker Award, and in 2023, we had the pleasure of covering Andy Lau’s Special Tribute Award red carpet moment.
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