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Hong Kong film "A Simple Life", directed by Miss Ann Hui, is to be screened as a special presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) this week, after winning a major award at the Venice International Film Festival.
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in Toronto yesterday (September 13, Toronto time) organised a special luncheon for the film's director, Miss Hui, and scriptwriter, Mr Roger Lee, to meet with the media and people from Toronto's film sector. The occasion also served to celebrate the success of "A Simple Life" at the 68th Venice International Film Festival. Miss Deanie Ip, who played a lead role in the film, was given the Best Actress award at the Venice festival. "A Simple Life", based on the true story of Mr Lee and his amah (nanny), focuses on the relationship between a young man and a family servant.
"A Simple Life" is one of two Hong Kong films featured at the 36th TIFF this year, the other being Johnnie To's "Life Without Principle". Both have received excellent reviews from critics. "Life Without Principle" is also a special presentation at the festival.
In her remarks at the luncheon, Director, HKETO, Toronto, Ms Gloria Lo, said she was glad that "A Simple Life" was selected to screen at the TIFF. "I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to Miss Ann Hui, Mr Roger Lee, Mr Andy Lau and Miss Deanie Ip of 'A Simple Life' for making Hong Kong films more known on the international scene. The award is not only an international recognition of Deanie's outstanding achievement, but a testimony of the level of excellence in Hong Kong's film industry." she said.
Over the past decade, Hong Kong movies and film talents have won over 300 international awards. In 2010, Hong Kong-produced film "Echoes of the Rainbow" won the Crystal Bear Award at the Berlin Film Festival.
"The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to support the film industry. We have the Film Services Office to provide support for filmmakers filming in Hong Kong," Miss Lo said. "The impressive and outstanding achievements of 'A Simple Life' have not just brought our film industry to new heights but also given immense encouragement to all in the industry. It also helps to further promote the image and success of Hong Kong."
Currently, the Film Development Fund provides some financial support to the industry. Also, the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement has opened the door for more Hong Kong-Mainland co-productions.
Among the guests at the luncheon were Artistic Director of the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival, Miss Heather Keung, and Director (Canada) of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Mr Andrew Yui.
"A Simple Life" is scheduled to screen on:
September 14 (Wednesday), 6.30pm at TIFF Bell Lightbox
September 15 (Thursday), 5.30pm at Scotiabank Theatre
September 18 (Sunday), 9.45am at Scotiabank Theatre
Ends/Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Issued at HKT 13:09
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