Full Breakdown
Dispute Over Documentary Screening Escalates Between Filmmaker and Hong Kong School
4/13/2026, 11:12:59 PM
Background of the Controversy
The conflict centers around the screening of the documentary *To My Nineteen-Year-Old Self*, directed by Mabel Cheung Yuen-ting, at the Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy. The film, which has received critical acclaim, has become a point of contention between Cheung and Ying Wa Girls’ School, her alma mater. The school has asserted that it did not authorize the screening due to unresolved consent issues with the film's major participants.
Core Event: School's Response to Filmmaker's Claims
Reverend Eric So Shing-yit, the supervisor of Ying Wa Girls’ School, publicly defended the institution's principal, Tiffany Chuk Wai-kan, against accusations from Cheung. In a letter addressed to students, So stated that the school board has "absolute confidence" in Chuk's integrity and leadership. He emphasized that during a meeting on February 26, Chuk had clearly communicated to Cheung and a representative from Golden Scene, the film's distributor, that the school would not support any screening until all necessary consents were obtained. So criticized Cheung and Golden Scene for making statements that he claimed were "inconsistent with the facts."
Filmmaker's Reaction
Mabel Cheung expressed her disappointment and shock at the school's decision to distance itself from the documentary. She described the school's actions as "blatantly lying" about the arrangements for the screening, which she found "intolerable." Cheung's emotional response highlights the personal connection she has with the school and her expectations of support from her alma mater.
Official Statements & Responses
Ying Wa Girls’ School has reiterated its commitment to the well-being of its students and the importance of maintaining a safe and supportive environment for learning. The school stated that it would not allow any screenings of the documentary until all consent issues with the cast members were resolved. In contrast, Cheung's statements reflect her dismay at the school's decision, indicating a significant rift between her and the institution.
Criticism & Opposition
The dispute has drawn criticism from those who support Cheung and her film. Critics argue that the school's actions undermine the artistic expression and the importance of the documentary, which addresses significant themes relevant to young people. The situation raises questions about the balance between institutional policies and the support of alumni in creative endeavors.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the nature of the communication between Cheung and the school. While Cheung claims the school misrepresented the arrangements, the school maintains that it acted in accordance with its policies regarding consent. This conflict highlights a lack of clarity in the communication process and raises concerns about the handling of such disputes in educational institutions.
What's Next
As the Far East Film Festival approaches, the situation remains unresolved. The documentary's future screening prospects depend on the resolution of consent issues, and further statements from both parties are anticipated as the festival date nears.
