ASEAN Film Festival 2023: Inaugural Southeast Asian Cinema Showcase in HK

The Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation (HKAF) is thrilled to unveil the first-ever ASEAN Film Festival (AFF), slated to run from Aug. 4 – 19 in Hong Kong.

The non-profit event is set to showcase a curated selection of films at venues such as M+ Cinema, Miller Theater at Asia Society, and the sky (Olympian City).

The ASEAN Film Festival seeks to bridge cultural gaps through the potent art of storytelling, presenting Hong Kong audiences with the rich beauty and diversity of ASEAN cultures and customs through the art form of cinema.

Over the festival period, over 600 local students and youths, along with ASEAN students in Hong Kong, will be invited to 21 film screenings, alongside sharing sessions joined by featured directors and cast members.

HK-ASEAN Foundation Chairman Mr. Daryl Ng emphasized the festival's mission to foster cross-cultural awareness, especially among the younger generation, and to promote mutual understanding between Hong Kong and the ASEAN nations.

Notably, Hong Kong, recognized as an Asian film hub, has over the years encouraged co-production between local and other Asian filmmakers through various initiatives and funds. AFF aims to enhance these efforts, highlighting ASEAN creative talent.

The AFF program will feature films from award-winning directors, offering insights into the diverse cultures and rich heritage of the nations they represent. Headlining screenings include "Before, Now and Then" by Indonesian director Kamila Andini, "Anwar: The Untold Story" by Malaysian director Viva Westi, "The Legend of Muay Thai: 9 Satra" by Thai directors Nat Yoswatananont and Gun Phansuwon, "White Building" by Cambodian director Kavich Neang, and "The Diam Diam Era 2" by Singaporean director Jack Neo.

Tickets for the public screenings are now available online through the M+ Cinema and the sky (Olympian City) websites. For the full schedule and additional film details, click here.

When: Aug. 4 – 19

Where: Click here to see all venues