Full Breakdown
Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum Showcases Emerging Talent
2/5/2026, 11:15:58 AM
Overview of the Work-in-Progress Lineup
The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (HKIFFS) has announced the selection of 12 projects for the work-in-progress (WIP) section of the 24th Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF), scheduled for March 17-19, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This year's lineup features a mix of established filmmakers and promising newcomers, with budgets reaching up to $2.2 million for each project.
Featured Projects and Directors
Among the notable projects is "Good Trip," a comedy-drama directed by Norris Wong Yee-lam and Wong Hoi, starring Nick Cheung Ka-fai and Chung Suet-ying. The film follows a production assistant who embarks on an unexpected journey with her dying father to fulfill his final wishes. Another significant entry is "The Sea Speaks His Name" (Laut Bercerita), directed by Yosep Anggi Noen, which tells the story of a student activist's disappearance in the 1990s, featuring Indonesian actors Reza Rahadian and Dian Sastrowardoyo.
Other highlighted projects include:
- "My Mother," directed by Eddie Cahyono, featuring Christine Hakim as a mother trying to reconnect with her daughter on death row in Saudi Arabia.
- "Ria," the debut feature of Arvin Belarmino, which portrays a hotel housekeeper leading her punk community against displacement while caring for her foster mother.
- "A Ghost in the Market," directed by Chin Chia-Hua, a supernatural drama about a murdered housewife returning to her daily routine.
Emerging Voices and Debut Features
The WIP lineup emphasizes new talent, with seven of the 12 titles marking directorial debuts. Filmmakers such as Arvin Belarmino, Chahat Mansingka, and Sailesh Rathnakumar are among those stepping behind the camera for the first time. Their projects explore diverse themes, from community struggles to personal loss, reflecting the rich tapestry of contemporary Asian cinema.
Industry Engagement and Presentation
The selected projects will be pitched to industry attendees, including distributors, producers, investors, and festival programmers, at the HKIFF Industry Project Market. Each team will present a 10-minute first look at their films, aiming to secure further funding and distribution opportunities. This initiative is part of a broader effort by HKIFFS to support and promote Asian filmmakers on the international stage.
Official Statements & Responses
The HKIFFS expressed its commitment to fostering new talent and providing a platform for diverse storytelling. The forum aims to bridge the gap between emerging filmmakers and industry stakeholders, enhancing collaboration across the Asian film landscape.
Criticism & Opposition
While the initiative has been generally well-received, some critics argue that the focus on emerging filmmakers may overshadow established voices in the industry. They emphasize the importance of balancing support for new talent with opportunities for seasoned filmmakers who have contributed significantly to the cinematic landscape.
What's Next
Following the WIP presentations, HKIFFS plans to unveil additional in-development projects, including selected animation and genre films, further enriching the festival's offerings and showcasing the breadth of talent within the Asian film community.
