Festivals - Cannes 2025: Hong Kong Cinema's Gateway to Global Collaboration and Cultural Exchange

By Mulder, 06 may 2025

The Cannes Film Festival has always been a melting pot of global cinema, where filmmakers from around the world converge to celebrate storytelling, creativity, and the art of filmmaking. This year, Hong Kong Cinema makes a bold statement at the 78th edition of the festival, presenting a robust program that aims to strengthen its position as a global hub for film production and cultural exchange. Jointly presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) of the Hong Kong SAR Government, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), the Hong Kong Film Development Council (FDC), and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC), the initiative is set to draw significant attention from international markets at one of the most prestigious cinematic events in the world.

Hong Kong’s presence will be marked by two dedicated pavilions located at Village International Riviera 117 and Riviera J13. At Riviera J13, visitors will find a lineup of renowned film distributors and production companies, including Celestial Pictures Limited, Edko Films Limited, Emperor Motion Pictures, Media Asia Film Distribution (HK) Limited, One Cool Pictures Limited, and Universe Films Distribution Co., Ltd. These pavilions will serve as meeting points for industry professionals eager to explore collaborative opportunities and to experience the rich tapestry of Hong Kong’s film industry.

A highlight of this year's showcase is the official Festival de Cannes selection of Sons of the Neon Night, directed by Juno Mak, which will have its world premiere in the Midnight Screenings section. The film, a visually striking exploration of corporate conspiracy and drug wars, is set against the surreal, snow-covered streets of Hong Kong. Starring an all-star cast including Takeshi Kaneshiro, Sean Lau, Tony Leung Ka-fai, Louis Koo, and Gao Yuanyuan, the film's presence at Cannes underscores Hong Kong's continuous push to spotlight its cinematic prowess on the global stage. The director and cast will be actively participating in the Hong Kong Night at Majestic Beach on May 17, an exclusive networking event that will attract producers, distributors, buyers, and special guests from around the world.

One of the most anticipated industry panels, A Better Tomorrow: The Success of Hong Kong & Asian Cinema in the World, will take place on May 14 at the Palais Stage (Palais-1). This seminar will delve into the rapid rise of Asian cinema and its growing global footprint, featuring insights from leading industry figures such as Judy Ahn from Showbox Corp., Todd Brown from XYZ Films, Eric Lin from Alibaba Pictures, and Juno Mak from Kudos Films. Moderated by Lorna Tee from the Asian Film Alliance Network, the panel promises to shed light on how Hong Kong cinema continues to thrive despite shifting market dynamics and evolving audience preferences.

Another pivotal moment will be the Village Forum on May 17, titled Asian Film Collaboration: Navigating Opportunities and Overcoming Challenges in a Global Landscape. Held at the Hong Kong Pavilion in Village International Riviera 117, this discussion will feature prominent voices from the industry, including Cristiano Bortone (Orisa Produzioni), Debbie Lam (Producer), Ronan Wong (AR Asia Production Limited), and Shin Yamaguchi (KNOCKONWOOD Inc.). The conversation will focus on cross-cultural storytelling and the role of Asian cinema in a rapidly globalizing world.

Networking opportunities abound during the festival, beginning with the Hong Kong Pavilion Opening Ceremony on May 15, followed by a relaxed Happy Hour on the same day at Riviera J13. On May 16, the Dim Sum Reception will offer a taste of Hong Kong's culinary heritage while fostering informal discussions among industry insiders. These events will build momentum leading up to the grand Hong Kong Night, where conversations about cinema, partnerships, and cultural narratives will unfold against the backdrop of the Cannes coastline.

The Marché du Film’s Producers Network and Spotlight Asia Program will also feature Hong Kong cinema prominently. On May 18, the Roadmap to Co-Production with Asia event will take place at the Producers Club (Lérins), followed by the Spotlight Asia Networking Lunch, an invitation-only affair where industry leaders will discuss future collaborations and emerging trends in Asian cinema. These sessions are vital for consolidating Hong Kong’s image as a strategic gateway to the Asian and Mainland China markets, further cementing its role as a bridge between Eastern and Western cinematic traditions.

The palpable excitement around Hong Kong Cinema at Cannes 2025 speaks volumes about the region's artistic ambition and strategic foresight. From captivating midnight screenings to insightful panels and spirited networking events, Hong Kong's presence at this year’s festival reflects both the resilience and creative energy of its film industry. As the world watches, Hong Kong Cinema is not just presenting its latest achievements but also paving the way for future collaborations that will undoubtedly shape the global cinematic landscape.

For more information on the events or interview opportunities with the delegation, feel free to reach out. The doors of the Hong Kong Pavilion are open, inviting you to discover a world where tradition meets innovation, and cinematic dreams take flight.

(Source : press release)