Hong Kong’s cultural scene will shine this month as the Asean Film Festival 2025 returns from tomorrow to August 31, broadening its scope and influence. This year, the festival highlights not only cinematic treasures from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations but also welcomes, for the first time, distinctive voices from four Belt and Road countries: Egypt, Hungary, Kazakhstan and Turkey.
Organized by the Hong Kong-Asean Foundation or HKAF, AFF 2025 is realized through the collaboration of the consulates-general of the 14 participating countries, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, M+, the Asia Society Hong Kong Centre, and the Belt and Road Office, among other partners.
More than just a showcase of films, the festival serves as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange, encouraging dialogue, partnerships and creative collaboration among filmmakers and audiences from Hong Kong, mainland China, the Asean, and the Belt and Road.
Its aim is clear: to spark new collaborations and inspire stories that resonate far beyond national borders.
AFF 2025 aims to unite communities through the universal language of film. The selection panel has curated a diverse program that highlights both the unique qualities of each genre and the shared hopes across borders.
Many of the selected works have received awards at prestigious film festivals, offering audiences both artistic brilliance and international appeal.
Screenings will be held at various locations across the city, including iconic venues such as the Hong Kong Arts Centre and Golden Scene Cinema.
To ensure accessibility, all screenings are free of charge, with tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis to encourage wide participation.
One of this year’s festival highlights is a captivating series of post-screening discussions. Respected directors and cinematic talent from across the Asean and the Belt and Road regions will share behind-the-scenes stories, deliberate on filmmaking techniques and examine regional trends.
AFF 2025 reaffirms Hong Kong’s role as a hub of culture and creativity, where audiences are encouraged to participate in a wider celebration of interconnected stories and shared ambitions linking Hong Kong, China, the Asean, and the Belt and Road community.
Bernard Charnwut Chan is chairman of Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co Ltd
