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Preserving the heritage of Hong Kong cinema is a major goal of the Hong Kong Film Archive (HKFA). In support of the World Day for Audiovisual Heritage and to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Bruce Lee's passing, the HKFA will present one of its prized titles, Bruce Lee's "The Way of the Dragon" (1972).
The "Early Treasures" screening will be held at the Cinema of the HKFA at 2pm on October 27 (Sunday). The HKFA is dedicating this screening to the saving of fading cinematic heritage, in addition to inviting the audience to enjoy Lee's performance.
This screening will show a brand new copy that just went through wet-gate printing, which helps to reduce the effect of scratches on the images and provide a clearer picture to audiences.
Audiovisual heritage comprises all forms of moving image and recorded sound, including film. In 2005, the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization designated every October 27 as World Day for Audiovisual Heritage to raise awareness of audiovisual documents as an integral part of national identities, as well as to increase understanding of the fragility of these documents and the urgent need to protect them.
"The Way of the Dragon" is the only film for which Lee was both director and star, expanding on the themes and concerns of his earlier kung fu flicks, such as the code of humility and a sense of national pride tinted with racial anger. The film features Lee going to Italy to help restaurant owner Nora Miao fight against local gangs. The story culminates in a showdown staged at the Coliseum - its iconic, symbolic appearance adds a mythic dimension that has only grown more pronounced over the years.
The film is in Mandarin and English with English and Chinese subtitles.
Tickets priced at $40 are available at all URBTIX. Half-price concessionary tickets are available for senior citizens aged 60 and above, people with disabilities and their minders, full-time students and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance recipients. Credit card booking can be made on 2111 5999, or on the Internet at www.urbtix.hk.
Detailed programme information can be found in "ProFolio 69" distributed at all performing venues of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. For enquiries, please call 2739 2139 or 2734 2900, or browse the webpage at www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/filmprog/english/2013et/2013et_index.html.
Ends/Thursday, October 3, 2013
Issued at HKT 12:30
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