This page has been idle for a while. To make sure you don’t miss out on the latest content, please reload the page.Refresh
Broadway Cinematheque in Yau Ma Tei, MOViE MOViE in Taikoo, Palace IFC in Central, and Premiere Elements in Elements | 16th European Union Film Festival Opens with Polish Film Focusing on Ukraine's Stories
Description
The European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao, together with the EU Member States and Switzerland and in association with Broadway Cinematheque, is proud to present the 16th European Union Film Festival (EUFF) in Hong Kong. This year's festival showcases 13 award-winning films, offering a diverse array of genres, from comedy to drama and romance to thriller.
The EUFF serves as a cultural bridge, deepening the connection between Hong Kong audiences and Europe's diverse cultures and rich heritage. Each Consulate-General has carefully chosen a film that embodies the unique artistic contributions of their respective countries, fostering cultural ties with local cinephiles.
Continuing its commitment to raising awareness about the plight of the Ukrainian people amid the ongoing Russian war of aggression, the festival opens with a Ukrainian-themed film. The opening film, People, is a Polish anti-war production that portrays the indomitable spirit of five women navigating the harsh realities of war.
Ambassador Harvey Rouse, Head of the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao, emphasizes the festival's unwavering support for Ukraine, stating "As 2025 sadly marks the third year since Russia launched the full-scale invasion of its illegal and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, the EUFF remains steadfast in solidarity with Ukraine, the Ukrainian people, and Russia's repressed dissidents."
13 European Films Bring Europe Closer to Hong Kong
People offers an emotional depiction of the Russian invasion through the eyes of Ukrainian women striving to protect their loved ones. Their stories include a blind girl who loses her custodian, a doctor caring for a wounded soldier, a young girl protecting her newborn sister, a grandmother converting her home into a makeshift morgue, and a Russian mother searching for her missing soldier son. Their fates are intertwined in a poignant story of life, courage, sacrifice, and compassion, revealing the resilience of life: even if they cannot win, they will strive to endure until the end.
The German heist comedy Two to One and the Spanish film I Am Nevenka draw inspiration from real-life events. Two to One features Berlinale Best Actress Sandra Hüller, an Oscar nominee for Anatomy of a Fall, humorously exploring the cultural clash between East and West Germany as an East German couple seizes their chance to become wealthy just before the reunification in 1990. I Am Nevenka tells the story of a young female politician who bravely exposes a colleague's sexual harassment, providing a strong critique of a culture that allows gender discrimination.
The Netherlands' entry for the Oscar's Best International Film, Memory Lane, is a heartwarming comedy that beautifully captures the final adventure of an elderly couple, celebrating the enduring power of love between a grumpy husband and a forgetful wife amid the challenge of aging. In Hungary's Without Air, the tension between an unconventional literature teacher and conservative parents unfolds, prompting viewers to reflect on the essence of education and the clash of ideologies.
Please click here to view the full list of films.