Hong Kong Films Shine at Chicago's Asian Pop-up Cinema, Strengthening Cultural Ties

2025-04-06 16:00 Last Updated At：16:08

New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York (New York ETO) supported Season 19 of Chicago’s Asian Pop-up Cinema (APUC) by showcasing nine exceptional Hong Kong films and documentaries, including the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4 (Chicago time).

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New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

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New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

The Office also strengthened the cultural, business and educational ties between Hong Kong and Chicago, Illinois, during a duty visit to the city from April 3 to 5.

At the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4, Hong Kong actress Michelle Wai was honoured with the Extraordinary Actors Award for her outstanding performance. Director Anselm Chan joined her at the post-screening sharing session.

This year's APUC also welcomed four Hong Kong filmmakers, who presented their works and engaged with the audience. They included directors Ho Miu-ki ("Love Lies") and Albert Mak ("Hit N Fun"), as well as producers Chan Hing-ka ("Love Lies") and Paul Chan ("To Be Continued").

Addressing the award ceremony, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, praised the filmmakers, noting that they represent the diverse and exceptional talents within Hong Kong's creative industry.

"Through our Film Development Fund, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government continues to support and nurture the growth of Hong Kong's creative industry, ensuring its presence on the global stage. By fostering talent, enhancing local production, and expanding audiences, we remain committed to bringing the best of Hong Kong cinema to the world," she said.

On April 3, the New York ETO cohosted a spring reception with the Hong Kong Business Association of the Midwest and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council . The annual event, attended by over 100 guests from Chicago's business, legal, academic, and cultural sectors, highlighted the strong ties between Hong Kong and Chicago.

Ms Ho noted in her welcome remarks that the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, adaptability, and transformation, perfectly reflects Hong Kong's ability to continuously reinvent itself while maintaining its leadership in finance and trade. The event also showcased the works of Chicago-based Hong Kong artist Cherry Tung and featured a Hong Kong-themed cocktail.

Ms Ho also had a meeting with Vice President for International Relations at Northwestern University Devora Grynspan to discuss areas of mutual interest and introduce Hong Kong's talent admission schemes available to university graduates. Northwestern University is among the list of eligible institutions under the Top Talent Pass Scheme.

Typhoon Noul Victims: Fish Farmers and Fishermen Can Apply for Relief Fund Starting Tomorrow

Emergency relief fund for fish farmers and fishermen affected by Typhoon Noul

Local fish farmers and fishermen who suffered serious losses caused by the recent Typhoon Noul can register with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) from tomorrow (July 28) for assistance from an emergency relief fund. According to the application guideline of the emergency relief fund, the application deadline for affected fish farmers is August 5, while the application deadline for affected fishermen is September 7.

An AFCD spokesman said today (July 27) that an appropriate amount of the relief funding would be released to affected eligible fish farmers and fishermen according to established criteria.

"After each typhoon or natural disaster, AFCD staff will contact fish farmers and fishermen to assess the resultant damage to their fish rafts, fish ponds and fishing vessels. Depending on the extent of the damage, the department may launch an operation to provide some relief to affected persons," the spokesman said.

The department's preliminary investigation has revealed that some fish rafts in certain fish culture zones and some fishing vessels were affected by Typhoon Noul.

Affected fish farmers can submit their applications in person at the following AFCD offices:

1) Fisheries Licensing Section Office, 8/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon;

2) Aberdeen Fisheries Offices, 100A Shek Pai Wan Road, Aberdeen;

3) Tai Po Fisheries Offices, 3 Yu On Street, Sam Mun Tsai, Tai Po, New Territories; or

4) Sai Kung Fisheries Office, 5/F, Sai Kung Government Offices, 34 Chan Man Street, Sai Kung, New Territories.

Affected fishermen can submit their applications at the Fisheries Supporting Services Division Office of the AFCD, 8/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon.

Affected fish farmers and fishermen can also submit applications online (www.afcd.gov.hk/english/fisheries/fish_cap/fish_cap_techsup/fish_cap_erf.html). For enquiries, please call 2150 7109 (for fish farmers) or 3426 2010 (for fishermen) during office hours.

Hong Kong Films Shine at Chicago's Asian Pop-up Cinema, Strengthening Cultural Ties

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