Films from Egypt, Hungary, Kazakhstan and Turkey debut at Hong Kong festival

Films from four countries that are a part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative – Egypt, Hungary, Kazakhstan and Turkey – have been included in a Hong Kong film festival for the first time.

The third edition of the Asean Film Festival, taking place in Hong Kong between August 7 and 31, features 24 films from 14 countries.

In a reply to the Post, the Turkish consulate said the inclusion of films from the country significantly enhanced cultural exchange in Hong Kong by showcasing Turkey’s rich cinematic heritage and societal narratives to a diverse audience.

“Through showcasing Turkey’s cultural heritage in Champion, we seek to bolster Turkey’s cultural influence in Hong Kong, foster regional connectivity, and support the Belt and Road Initiative’s focus on people-to-people connections, alongside economic cooperation,” a consulate spokesman said.

The belt and road plan is an ongoing effort to link economies into a China-centred trade network, largely via Chinese-backed megaprojects abroad. It was adopted in 2013 to invest in more than 150 countries and international organisations.

Champion – an autobiographical story that interweaves Turkey’s deep-rooted equestrian tradition with themes of love, sacrifice, betrayal and redemption – will be shown in Tai Kwun next Saturday.

Our Blossom, a rare Hungary-Vietnam co-production, tells a tale of forbidden love and unexpected encounters across two different timelines in Budapest. It will be shown next Friday at The Sky in Olympian City.