Be My Guest | Nourished by Chinese Quyi, youth director gains new perspectives toward realistic, feminist themes

As an abstract term, "humanism" is embodied in the "reflection" of human beings. In recent years, with the advent of the information age and the rise of online opinion leaders, people have gradually begun to examine their own behavior and focus on social phenomena, trying to help solve social problems through their personal actions.

Director Kang Xiaolou is one of the men in this "collective reflection". After studying for a master's degree in film production at the London Film School in the UK, he returned to China to enter the film industry. The films he worked on mostly focused on women's issues, using the language of the camera to depict the injustices and events that can be seen everywhere in daily life.

In 2022, Kang directed the female-themed suspense short film Misandry, which was selected for the 12th Macau International Film Festival. In response to the "feminist" title, he said, "I wouldn't say I'm a feminist director ...... I'm actually a realist director.”

As a result of studying traditional Chinese operas such as crosstalks and Peking Opera since childhood, Kang gained his own aesthetic and approach when observing and portraying characters. "The beauty from a male perspective is different. I am a male director, but I also want to provide a perspective that explores feminism, and this perspective is also valuable.”

In addition, Kang believes that the spirit of Hong Kong movies is now "transferred" to South Korea.

How did Peking Opera and crosstalks lead Kang to the path of director? How has the Korean film industry developed in the international arena in recent years? How should the past glory of Hong Kong movies continue into the future? Watch the video for more information.