In Conversation
Breaking Barriers: Ann Hui's Journey in Film
Breaking Barriers: Ann Hui's Journey in Film
Speaking to prominent journalist Saraswathi Nagarajan at "In Conversation," Ann Hui, this year's IFFK Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and renowned filmmaker of Hong Kong New Wave cinema, shared insights and discussed the diversity of her 45-year film career. This special conversation programme was organized at the Nila Theatre on December 15, 2024, the third day of the 29th IFFK. She added that the IFFK Lifetime Achievement Award she received would inspire her life's journey ahead.
Ann Hui spoke about breaking the boundaries of film classification, choosing diverse films without being confined to a framework, and finding inspiration in everyday life. She discussed her Vietnam trilogy, which addressed refugee issues, and shared her experiences at the London Film Institute in the 1970s. Hui also reflected on the challenges she faced, including age discrimination, and noted that science fiction and musical films were the most difficult genres for her to work in. Additionally, she observed that while the democratization of the film industry was reviving the new generation, it lacked new ideas and thoughts. Hui also fondly recalled her days as an assistant director under Chinese director King Hu, praising his talent.
When asked about Asian films and directors, Ann Hui shared her thoughts on the evolution of cinema, noting that it has transitioned from mere entertainment to a recognized art form, with television content also showing significant improvement. She also expressed her views on the trend of idolizing directors.
Hui discussed the literary books that inspired her films, including adaptations such as "18 Springs," "Love in a Fallen City," and "Love After Love." She spoke about her experience directing the controversial film "Boat People," the circumstances surrounding its ban, and the challenges of working within censorship policies. KSFDC Chairman Shaji N Karun was also present during the question-and-answer session that followed the discussion.
