Hong Kong Filmmakers Discuss Talent Development and Industry Future at SIFF Forum

Hong Kong's film industry is leaning on intergenerational exchange to secure its future, veteran directors and rising talents said at a 28th Shanghai International Film Festival forum on Monday, where they discussed talent development and cross-border collaboration.

At the forum, titled "Hong Kong Cinema: A Legacy in Succession," Gary Mak, secretary-general of the Hong Kong Film Development Council, thanked SIFF for its long support of the industry. He said he was encouraged by the strong showing of Hong Kong films in this year's lineup and that the council would keep advancing targeted funding to back production and nurture new talent.

During a roundtable discussion, veteran filmmaker Derek Yee reflected on his experience working with younger generations of filmmakers. The acclaimed director, whose career spans more than four decades, praised their openness to new ideas and enthusiasm for the craft.

"They allow me to relive experiences I've gone through before," Yee said. "I can also recapture the passion and dreams I had when I first entered the film industry."

Actor and director Stephen Fung emphasized the importance of both strong screenplays and capable performers in achieving commercial and critical success. He also encouraged emerging filmmakers to expand their professional networks through active social engagement, saying collaboration is essential to discovering new creative opportunities.

Yukki Tai, who leads "Dog Day Evening," a film in this year's Asian New Talent section, said the story plays out entirely in a single location, pushing the creative team to build a layered narrative within a confined space.