| For young filmmakers, Fresh Wave strives to broaden their visions, ignite their passions and encourage them to set ambitious goals. These are the prime motivations behind the dedicated effort to organise Fresh Wave throughout the years. Fresh Wave has made constant breakthroughs to draw young film talents. These aspiring filmmakers are empowered to give free reign to their creativity. Besides being mentored and trained by industry professionals, they receive film subsidies to shoot their own films which would be screened during the Festival. In recent years, up-and-coming directors such as Jevons Au, Frank Hui and Vicky Wong who co-directed Trivisa as well as Wong Chun who directed Mad World received high acclaim. As past participants of Fresh Wave, they bear testament to how Fresh Wave is gradually recognised and highly esteemed by the public. Thai director Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit, whose latest work Heart Attack has been selected as the opening film for this year's Fresh Wave, is gracious enough to attend the event in person. Chan Kam-hei, winner of the "Fresh Wave Award" last year, would also present his newest work A Floating Hope as opening film of the Festival. The number of local and overseas participating organisations is at an unprecedented high. Screening of high-quality short films from around the world helps broaden the horizon of local young filmmakers and the audience, in turn prompting creativity and greater appreciation for creativity in the film arts. Fresh Wave will continue its role in promoting film arts by organising screenings and talks at local secondary schools and higher education institutions. Through these school tours, youngsters receive exposure to short films and film production which may inspire them to be future anchors for the Hong Kong film industry. We would like to thank the Home Affairs Bureau, the Hong Kong Arts Development Council and other organisations for their unwavering support. The establishment of "Fresh Wave Film Festival Limited" would not have been possible without the effort, support and guidance of its Board of Directors. They are instrumental in laying down a strong foundation for the growth and sustainability of Fresh Wave. We would also like to call upon everyone to put more resources in cultivating outstanding film talents to bring a fresh wave of ideas and excellence for the film sector. Johnnie To Chairman Fresh Wave Film Festival Limited |