Asia’s longest running annual LGBTI film fest, the Hong Kong Lesbian and Gay Film Festival, returns this weekend, screening an eclectic programme of queer films in cinemas around town. It’s one of the most important events on the regional LGBTI calendar. This year’s diverse lineup offers a selection of profound narratives from established and emerging international filmmakers. Here are the must-see films to catch at this year’s event. By Alice Huang
Starring Ellen Page, who came out four years ago, and Kate Mara – best known as Zoe Barnes in House of Cards – My Days of Mercy is a compelling romance with thought-provoking political discussions. 7.20pm, September 8, Movie Movie Cityplaza.
Winner of the Grand Jury Prize for US drama at Sundance, this film takes viewers back to the 90s when homophobia and gay conversion therapy, in particular, troubled the LGBT community. A powerful drama with a sharp sense of humour, The Miseducation of Cameron Post is worthy cinema whether you’re interested in LGBT issues or not. 7.45pm, September 9, The One; 9.50pm, September 15, Broadway Cinematheque.
How much drama can erupt when an 80-year-old drag queen befriends a younger one? The answer is here in this movie. Aside from some great comedy, Tucked also has a heartwarming side in discovering issues of gender identity and mortality. Young director Jamie Patterson knocks down the stereotypes surrounding queer drag queens through this charming story. 8pm, September 9, AMC Pacific Place; 9.50pm, September 20, Broadway Cinematheque.
What makes a man? Transgender filmmaker T Cooper doesn’t have an answer, but he uses his camera and documentary storytelling techniques to explore the topic in capturing the world’s only all-transgender bodybuilding competition. With compassion, Cooper examines the nature of manhood. The film was awarded Best Documentary Feature Audience Award at the Outfest Los Angeles LGBT Film Festival. 1.50pm, September 15, AMC Pacific Place; 5.40pm, September 25, Broadway Cinematheque.
Since this is a Hong Kong film fest, how about watching a local movie? This effort by Hong Kong director Simon Chung explores the struggles of the LGBT community in this city through a story between two young men. The September 9 screening will even have Chung and his cast in attendance to discuss the film. 5.40pm, September 9, AMC Pacific Place; 3.20pm, September 22, Movie Movie Cityplaza.
Looking for something other than a touching or funny film? How about a thriller to spice things up a little? This Icelandic film follows two men examining their broken relationship when unexpected guests turn up outside their cabin. The stunning cinematography has made it an award-winner. 7.30pm, September 16, Movie Movie Cityplaza; 9.50pm, September 24, Broadway Cinematheque.
Japanese director Mika Imai tells a story of people like herself – the deaf. When two deaf girls fall in and love and come out to their disappointed parents, their feelings of rejection drives them to a gathering of deaf LGBTQ individuals in search of like-minded individuals and self-acceptance. The film is told through sign language with Chinese and English subtitles. The crew, including the director, will be on hand at the September 15 screening. 3.50pm, September 15, Movie Movie Cityplaza; 9.50pm, September 23, Broadway Cinematheque.
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