HIIFF 2025: U.S.-Thai filmmakers highlight cross-cultural connections

American filmmaker Jinho Myung and Thai actor Legyaan Thapa, creators of the coming-of-age feature "Softshell" – screening at the 7th Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIIFF) – shared their reflections with CGTN's Zhang Meng during their first visit to Hainan.

Myung said the experience of being in Sanya was "eye-opening," admitting he hadn't realized China had such a tropical island. Both filmmakers praised the environment, describing Hainan as "the perfect place for a film festival," citing its warm climate, lush scenery and relaxed atmosphere that brings people together.

Myung added that he was excited to see viewers embrace both small indie works and major blockbusters – an indication of China's growing and widening film appetite. Thapa noted that the story of "Softshell" resonates strongly with families who have mixed cultural backgrounds, highlighting how deeply Thai and Chinese cultures are historically intertwined – something he personally experienced growing up.