Remarks by C,USA Margaret Fong
13th Annual Made in Hong Kong Film Festival premiere
Freer Gallery of Art, Meyer Auditorium, Washington, D.C.

9 July 2008

Tom, [Vick], thank you for your kind introduction.

Dear friends, welcome to the premiere for the 13th annual Made in Hong Kong Film Festival.

The mission of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office is to strengthen Hong Kong-US ties and to share the story of Hong Kong's success with our friends here in Washington.

Integral to this mission is the promotion of Hong Kong culture which is epitomized by our dynamic film industry.

The annual film festival offers an opportunity to showcase Hong Kong's cinematic achievements – from the groundbreaking kung-fu films dominated by Bruce Lee and the absurdist comedies of Stephen Chow to the moody crime films by John Woo and melancholy dramas by Wong Kar-wai – we bring them all to you.

The pioneers of Hong Kong cinema have contributed to the city's growing reputation as one of the most vibrant film entertainment industries in the world.

In addition, the city's natural beauty and famous skyline offer an inspiring canvas for overseas filmmakers – as will be seen in the upcoming Batman sequel, The Dark Knight.

For decades, Hong Kong's artistic landscape has been shaped by the creative influences of Eastern and Western cultures. This cross-fertilization has placed the film industry at the forefront of Hong Kong's creative exploration. It has played a crucial role in spurring technological innovation, promoting a distinct cultural narrative and positioning the city as a global entertainment center.

The Hong Kong government has played a complementary role in support of the long-term development of Hong Kong's entertainment sector.

In 2007, the government established the Film Development Council to advance the film industry by way of formulating policy, overseas promotion and financial support.

Last year the government injected an additional US$40 million into the Film Development Fund. The Fund was set up in 1999 and provides funding for small-to-medium budget film productions, enhances promotion of Hong Kong films, and augments training programs in film production and distribution to nurture talent.

Elevating the film industry is the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement between Hong Kong and the Mainland of China. The free trade agreement, which gives Hong Kong companies greater access to the burgeoning Mainland market, has spurred co-production partnerships between Hong Kong and Mainland film companies, opening up yet more opportunities for Hong Kong's film industry.

With an aim to encourage further development of the entertainment sector, in 2007 Hong Kong officially launched digital terrestrial television.

This new era of digital broadcasting has the potential to expand multi-media services and enhance viewers' audio-visual experience.

With the second phase of the launch set for early August, 75% of Hong Kong's population will be able to receive DTT signals.

The move comes just in time for the 2008 Beijing Olympics in August when Hong Kong – with its long tradition of equine excellence – will co-host the Olympic Equestrian Events followed by the Paralympic Games.

It is a great honor for the people of Hong Kong to be part of the cherished Olympic tradition.

This evening's premiere is director Lawrence Lau's backstage film industry portrait, My Name is Fame.

The comedy-drama, reminiscent of A Star is Born, stars Lau Ching-Wan as Poon Ka Fai, a jaded, twilight actor wallowing in self-pity until he meets Faye Ng, an aspiring young ingénue played by Huo Siyan.

Faye's growing success inspires in Ka Fai a mix of affection, envy and inspiration.

For his performance, which at times lampoons his own career, Lau was honored with the Best Actor award at the 2007 Hong Kong Film Awards and 2007 Golden Bauhinia Awards.

Hong Kong movie junkies in the audience may recognize cameo appearances by some of our best-known actors and directors.

I hope you enjoy this evening's film.

Thank you.