Hong Kong Fire Remembrance Sets Poignant Tone at Hainan Film Festival Launch

Amidst the pomp and spectacle of the opening ceremony of the Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIIFF), a quiet remembrance stole the show.

Xing Bo, VP of China Media Group, remembered the victims of the recent Tai Po apartment complex fire in Hong Kong, which has claimed some 159 victims thus far, with some 30 people still missing.

“Distinguished guests and friends, as the moon hangs low in the sky, we feel a profound sorrow for the lives lost in the Hong Kong fire and for their families. May the departed be at rest, may the survivors find strength,” said Xing, in a speech before more than 1,000 guests.

“Cinema has always allowed us to realise our shared humanity and inspires us to keep going in the toughest of times. Let us join together to create that beautiful image.”

The heartfelt message also acted as a reminder of the outsized role the city has played in Chinese cinema.

Clips from classic Hong Kong films like “Comrades, Almost a Love Story,” provided a backdrop to one of the night’s big spectacle set pieces, a medley of popular songs from films, as the Hainan International Film Festival celebrates not just its 7th edition, but also the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema.

James Cameron referred to the anniversary in a video message to the audience.

“ is a testament to your passion, both as brilliant creators and as devoted audiences,” said the “Avatar” director.

“I’ve always believed in the cinema’s unparalleled big-screen experience. This spectacle, driven by innovation and the boundless spark of imagination, is the very heart of the ‘Avatar’ films. It’s with that same spirit we eagerly anticipate sharing our next chapter,” Cameron said.

HIIFF will host the Chinese premiere of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” later this week, with Cameron in attendance.

The opening ceremony was held at a purpose built outdoor arena on the man-made Phoenix Island in Sanya City, Hainan.

The guestlist for the opening ceremony was heavy on local celebrities such as renowned actor Guo Tao (“I Am Not Madame Bovary”), though light on international attendees. Argentinian director Mariano Llinás and French documentary filmmaker Sylvian George were some notable exceptions, both serving on the festival’s juries.

“This year it is obvious that in terms of film artistry and market impact, Chinese films have taken a big step forward,” said jury president Marco Müller.

The 7th Hainan Island International Film Festival runs through Dec. 9.