Hong Kong International Film Festival Society's HAF Unveils 15 Work-in-Progress Features
The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (HKIFF) has announced a diverse lineup of 15 work-in-progress features for the upcoming Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF).
Established Auteur Projects
* "A Woman Builds" by Golden Horse winner Huang Ji and Otsuka Ryuji, exploring a Chinese woman's journey during COVID-19.
* "Fuxi: Joy in Four Chapters" by Qiu Jiongjiong, a dark comedy featuring "Stranger Eyes" star Lee Kang-Sheng.
Emerging Talent Projects
* "Mother Bhumi" by Chong Keat Aun, starring Fan Bingbing, about a widowed farmer facing her husband's death.
* "White Flowers and Fruits" by Sakamoto Yukari, a supernatural boarding school tale produced by Yamamoto Teruhisa.
* "The Ink-Stained Hand and the Missing Thumb" by Yashasvi Juyal, a drama about migrant workers.
Directorial Debuts
* "Pangku" by Indonesian actor Reza Rahadian, tackling the practice of lap-sitting in coffee shops.
* "Shape of Momo" by Tribeny Rai, which won top honors at India's NFDC Film Bazaar WIP lab.
Genre Offerings
* "Moonglow" by Isabel Sandoval, a 1970s Manila-set film starring the director.
* "Wild Nights, Tamed Beasts" by Wang Tong, a twisted romance between a zookeeper and a serial killer.
Youth-Focused Stories
* "Ah Girl" by Ang Geck Geck, about a child caught between divorced parents.
* "Girlfriends" by Tracy Choi, a romance spanning three cities.
* "Her First Taste" by Gong Yiwen, a documentary-style film capturing adolescent emotions.
* "Name and Hair" by Li Jing, following a teenage girl's quest for identity.
Emerging Filmmakers
* "Good Drink Pub" by Emetjan Memet, a Xinjiang-set romantic comedy.
* "Say My Name" by Liu Xing, a tale of identity deception and romance.
Industry Impact
HAF alumni projects have made waves in Europe, with "Living the Land" competing for Berlin's Golden Bear and "Queerpanorama" and "Pag-wa" screening at Panorama and Special sections.
Project Presentation
The projects will be presented at the expanded HKIFF Industry Project Market, offering industry professionals a first look at upcoming Asian features.