In a bold move to elevate its status on the global film stage, the Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (HKIFFS) today announced an exciting expansion of its 2025 HKIFF Industry Project Market. With a vision that blends the rich tapestry of animation with the vibrant narrative of Indonesian cinema, the festival is setting the stage for an unprecedented celebration of cinematic diversity.
This year’s market, set to take place from March 17-19, 2025, alongside the renowned Filmart, has introduced six new animation projects, marking a significant push towards recognizing Hong Kong as a hub for animated storytelling. Among the animated gems are “Cloud Of The Unknown” by the acclaimed Gao Yuan, “The Tale Of The Holy Beast” from Indian director Triparna Maiti, and “Light Pillar” by China’s Xu Zao, whose previous work won accolades at the DOK Leipzig festival.
The inclusion of these animation projects not only showcases the artistic prowess of filmmakers from Hong Kong and beyond but also reflects HKIFFS’s commitment to fostering a platform where animation is not just a category but a celebrated art form. “We are witnessing a renaissance in animation, with stories that transcend the screen,” stated Jacob Wong, director of HKIFF Industry, highlighting the festival’s dedication to promoting such talent.
In an equally exciting development, the HKIFF Industry Project Market has launched the Jakarta Film Week Projects, a collaboration with Jakarta Film Week (JFW), spotlighting two emerging Indonesian filmmakers. This partnership underscores the festival’s aim to broaden its cultural scope, providing a platform for Indonesian cinema to shine on an international stage. “This collaboration is pivotal in amplifying the voice of Indonesian filmmakers globally,” said Rina Damayanti, JFW Festival Director, during the announcement held at the HKIFF Society’s headquarters.
The inclusion of these Indonesian projects is not just about showcasing film; it’s about cultural exchange, storytelling, and building bridges between Asian cinema communities. The projects are expected to introduce narratives steeped in Indonesian culture, folklore, and contemporary issues, offering festival-goers a rich, diverse viewing experience.
The HKIFF Industry Project Market, known for its role in film financing and project development, has never been more vibrant. This year’s additions promise to not only attract a broader range of filmmakers, producers, and investors but also encourage cross-pollination of ideas and styles across different genres and cultures.
As the news broke, the film community in Hong Kong and across Asia buzzed with excitement. Social media platforms lit up with discussions, predictions, and celebrations of this expansion, with many looking forward to seeing how these projects will influence the future of film in the region.
This strategic expansion by the HKIFFS is more than just an addition to their program; it’s a statement of intent. Hong Kong is positioning itself not only as a gateway for East meets West but also as a melting pot for cinematic innovation, where animation and stories from Southeast Asia can flourish, inspire, and captivate audiences worldwide. As we approach March 2025, all eyes will be on Hong Kong, eager to witness this new chapter in its storied film festival history.
