Tag: Hong Kong Trade Development Council

44th Hong Kong International Film Festival New Dates

The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (HKIFFS) have announced the new dates for the 44th Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF44) which will now be held from the 18-31 August 2020.

No information has been released as to whether the new dates will also include Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF18).

In announcing the new dates Executive Director Albert Lee said HKIFFS had decided to re-launch HKIFF44 after the Hong Kong government began easing the COVID-19 restrictive measures, including allowing local cinemas to re-open.

“We are cautiously optimistic that Hong Kong is gradually returning to normal from the health crisis,” said Mr Lee.  “I am pleased that we have not stopped our preparation since the postponement.  The prospects of being able to bring back HKIFF44 to our audience are exciting.  Nothing beats the big-screen experience of watching a diverse selection of films from around the world.”

The full programme of films will be announced on the 28 July with tickets going on sale from the 5 August through URBTIX.

44th Hong Kong International Film Festival
Date: 18-31 August, 2020
Venue: various
Tickets: tbc

For latest updates of HKIFF44 and Cine Fan programmes, www.hkiff.org.hk and www.cinefan.com.hk.  For information about HAF18, www.haf.org.hk.

Postponement of HKIFF44 and HAF18, Cancellation of Cine Fan April/May edition

The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society have announced the postponement of the 44th Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF44) and the 18th Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF18) in response to the recent novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

In making the announcement, HKIFFS Executive Director Albert Lee confirms that the Society’s two flagship events, both scheduled to start in less than six weeks, will be postponed to the summer of 2020.  However, the April/May edition of the year-round Cine Fan repertory programme has been cancelled.

“We hope to be able to share more information regarding a postponed HKIFF44 following discussions with screenings venues, as well as our many stakeholders, partners and sponsors,” said Lee.

HAF director Jacob Wong said plans are on track to hold HAF18 during the 24th Hong Kong International Film and TV Market (FILMART), which the Hong Kong Trade Development Council has just postponed to 27-29 August.

“Besides, we are still going ahead with HAF Goes to Cannes which takes place during Cannes Film Festival in May,” said Wong.  “We will announce the selected projects for this initiative in late March.”

Lee added that the postponement of HKIFF44 and HAF18 was not an easy decision to make.  “We see the need to make a socially-responsible decision and not to put the public’s safety and well-being at risk,” he said.  “Our prayers are for those who are affected by the novel coronavirus outbreak and to wish them a full and speedy recovery.”

For latest updates of HKIFF44 and Cine Fan programmes, www.hkiff.org.hk and www.cinefan.com.hk.  For information about HAF18, www.haf.org.hk.