Hong Kong is set to become a focal point for global cinema aficionados this March as the Asian Film Awards Academy (AFAA) unveils an extraordinary lineup for its 19th edition. While the annual celebration of Asian cinematic excellence will adopt a "dignified and minimalist" format this year, foregoing competitive categories in deference to a recent local tragedy, its commitment to artistic discourse remains unwavering. The academy has announced three highly anticipated masterclass events, bringing together an unparalleled triumvirate of industry titans: Hwang Dong-hyuk, the visionary creator behind Netflix’s groundbreaking global phenomenon, Squid Game; Jia Zhangke, the acclaimed Chinese director whose work eloquently chronicles a rapidly evolving nation; and the iconic international actress, Zhang Ziyi, a beacon of Asian talent on the world stage.
Scheduled for March 15 at the prestigious Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre in Hong Kong’s vibrant Tsim Sha Tsui district, these masterclasses are designed to offer diverse perspectives on the art of filmmaking. From the intricate craft of acting and the profound philosophy of auteur direction to the complex alchemy of series creation, attendees will have a rare opportunity to delve into the minds of those shaping contemporary cinema. The program, a testament to the AFAA’s enduring mission, is presented by the Academy and generously supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency and the Film Development Fund, underscoring Hong Kong’s pivotal role in fostering regional cinematic growth.
The Asian Film Awards Academy, a non-profit organization forged through the collaborative spirit of the Busan, Hong Kong, and Tokyo international film festivals, has long been dedicated to celebrating and promoting the finest achievements in Asian cinema. Its mandate extends beyond mere recognition, aiming to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the diverse narratives, unique artistic expressions, and extraordinary talent emerging from the continent. This year, however, the Academy’s proceedings are imbued with a somber yet resilient spirit. Following a devastating fire in Hong Kong last year that tragically claimed over 150 lives, the AFAA made the difficult but necessary decision to suspend all competitive award categories. This revised format, focusing solely on special honors and presented with utmost respect and restraint, aligns with the Hong Kong government’s guidance for public events in the wake of such profound loss. It reflects a community’s collective pause, a moment to honor lives lost while quietly reaffirming the enduring power of art to inspire and connect. In this context, the masterclasses stand not just as educational opportunities but as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering commitment of the creative community to continue its vital work, even in challenging times.
Hwang Dong-hyuk’s masterclass promises to be a particularly insightful journey into the mind of a filmmaker who achieved global ubiquity with Squid Game. His session will meticulously trace his creative trajectory, revealing the underlying threads that connect his diverse body of work. Before the worldwide sensation of Squid Game, Hwang was a respected figure in Korean cinema, known for tackling complex social issues with unflinching honesty. Films like the powerful 2011 drama Silenced, based on a true story of child abuse, showcased his ability to provoke national dialogue and even instigate legislative change. This was followed by the wildly successful 2014 comedy Miss Granny, demonstrating his versatility and knack for crafting narratives that resonate deeply with audiences, regardless of genre. His journey, marked by years of persistent development and an unwavering belief in his vision, is a compelling narrative in itself. The genesis of Squid Game, which languished in development for over a decade before finding its moment, serves as a powerful illustration of creative tenacity. During his masterclass, Hwang is expected to dissect how he meticulously transformed seemingly innocent childhood games into a searing indictment of class disparity, systemic inequality, and the primal instincts of survival—themes that struck a universal chord and propelled the series into the cultural zeitgeist, sparking conversations from Seoul to Seattle and everywhere in between. His discussion will offer invaluable lessons on storytelling, adaptation, and the sheer grit required to bring a truly transformative vision to fruition.
Joining Hwang is the inimitable Jia Zhangke, a director celebrated globally for his distinctive brand of understated realism and his profound cinematic gaze upon the heart of contemporary China. Jia’s masterclass will offer a rare opportunity to explore the depths of his creative philosophy, a worldview shaped by decades of intimately observing and documenting a nation in constant flux. From his early, raw narratives like Pickpocket (1997) and the sprawling epic Platform (2000), which captured the disillusionment and quiet rebellion of a generation, to his Venice Golden Lion-winning masterpiece Still Life (2006), which poignantly juxtaposed ancient traditions with the monumental scale of the Three Gorges Dam project, Jia has consistently presented a nuanced, often melancholic, portrait of China’s rapid modernization and its human cost. His films are not just stories; they are historical documents, rich tapestries woven from the lives of ordinary people grappling with extraordinary change. A regular and revered presence at the world’s most prestigious film festivals—Venice, Cannes, Berlin—Jia has garnered an unparalleled reputation for his integrity and artistic courage. His session promises to be a masterclass in auteur filmmaking, exploring how he crafts narratives that are both deeply personal and universally resonant, offering insights into his unique approach to visual storytelling, character development, and his unwavering commitment to capturing the authentic pulse of a changing society.
The lineup is further elevated by the presence of Zhang Ziyi, a name synonymous with grace, strength, and unparalleled talent in global cinema. Her masterclass, which will be thoughtfully integrated with the special honors ceremony, will delve into the profound artistry behind her performances and her monumental impact on expanding the narrative landscape for Chinese actors on the world stage. Zhang Ziyi’s career is a testament to the power of compelling character-building. From her breakout role as the fiercely independent Jen Yu in Ang Lee’s martial arts epic Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)—a film that transcended cultural boundaries and became a global phenomenon—to her mesmerizing portrayal of Gong Er in Wong Kar-wai’s The Grandmaster (2013) and her nuanced performance in Hou Hsiao-Hsien’s Jasmine Women (2004), Zhang has consistently delivered performances of breathtaking depth and emotional resonance. She has masterfully navigated complex characters, often portraying women of incredible resilience, determination, and inner turmoil, making them relatable to audiences worldwide. Beyond her acting prowess, Zhang Ziyi has been a trailblazer, her international success paving the way for a generation of Asian performers. She has not only graced the screens of Hollywood but has also served with distinction as a juror at major film festivals, including Cannes and the Venice Film Festival, solidifying her status as a respected voice and arbiter of cinematic excellence. Her session will offer invaluable insights into her meticulous process of inhabiting a role, connecting with its emotional core, and the broader responsibility she feels in representing and elevating Asian narratives in a global context. For a women-focused audience, Zhang Ziyi’s journey exemplifies dedication, artistic integrity, and groundbreaking achievement in a highly competitive industry.
Looking to the future, the AFAA has also unveiled its trio of Youth Ambassadors, symbolizing the vibrant and evolving landscape of Asian cinema. Thai actor Phiravich Attachitsataporn, widely known as Mean, joins Hong Kong’s own rising star Natalie Hsu and Taiwan’s promising talent Kent Tsai. These emerging actors, each representing a distinct regional cinematic tradition, will play a crucial role in attending the awards ceremony and engaging with the wider film community. Their presence is a deliberate effort by the AFAA to highlight the dynamic new energy and fresh perspectives that are poised to shape the future of Asian filmmaking. Their involvement underscores the Academy’s commitment not only to celebrating established masters but also to nurturing the next generation of talent, ensuring a vibrant and continuous evolution of storytelling from across the continent.
Since their re-introduction in 2023, the Asian Film Awards’ featured programs, including screenings and "In Conversation" events, have consistently garnered enthusiastic responses from critics and the public alike, demonstrating a profound appetite for deeper engagement with cinematic arts. This year’s expanded lineup will continue this tradition, with further details regarding additional "Asian Cinerama" screenings and "In Conversation" sessions expected to be announced in the coming weeks. While the 19th Asian Film Awards approaches with a modified format, it stands as a poignant reminder of cinema’s enduring power—to educate, to inspire, and to connect, even as a community grapples with remembrance and renewal. The convergence of these cinematic giants in Hong Kong promises an unforgettable series of events, reaffirming Asian cinema’s indelible mark on the global cultural tapestry.
