Chinese films to compete in Tokyo International Film Festival

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As one of the most popular film festivals accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), many say the annual Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) is a stunning show for outstanding films to win a position.

The 31st TIFF will kick off on October 25, with 16 films competing for the Tokyo Grand Prix. Among them, two are from China – "The Poet" directed by Liu Hao and "Three Husbands" by Fruit Chan.

'The Poet'

Starring Zhu Yawen and Song Jia, "The Poet" tells the story of a mine worker and his beloved wife. They deeply fell for each other, but their love struggled later on. They separated then, but the wife Chen Hui still wanted to keep her husband's smell and shadow aside.

A still from "The Poet" /VCG Photo

Director Liu Hao once revealed the intention of making this film. In the 1980s, China was in the initial phase of reform and opening up. A lot of emerging activities got people's attention, such as attending a night school, achieving more educational certificates, and finding a job overseas. However in a small town, maybe the best choice was to become a poet to change life.

In the 1990s, things changed. The evaluation standard of everything became narrowed down to "money". In an era like this, dreaming of being a poet would lead to disaster.

"I hope 'The Poet' could truly document that in an unpoetical era, there was still a poet named Chen Hui, a poet who wanted to keep her husband's smell and shadow, who actually kept the history unintentionally," Liu said.

'Three Husbands'

As the last piece of the "Prostitute Trilogy", "Three Husbands" recounts a story about the life of a prostitute and her three husbands in a boat in Hong Kong.

Zeng Mei Hui Zi was nominated as the best actress for the 55th Golden Horse Awards for her role in the film.

A still from "Three Husbands" /VCG Photo

The "Prostitute Trilogy" is a prostitute-themed film, which also has two sequels, directed by Fruit Chan. From the first one "Durian Durian" to "Hollywood Hong Kong" now to the last piece, it takes almost 18 years.

The "Prostitute Trilogy" focuses on the prostitutes from lower class, depicting their dreams and struggles and showing sympathy and respect for them.

Other expected Chinese films

Except for the competition section, there are also other Chinese films selected for the Asian Future section.

"Long Time No Sea", director Tsui Yung-hui's debut feature, is about a teacher and his students preparing a dance performance. "A First Farewell" also looks at kids' growth, telling a story of two childhood sweethearts who separate. It is Lina Wang's directorial debut.

Other Chinese films like "Tracey" and "Wushu Orphan" will also hold their world premiere during the 10-day event.

(Cover: A poster for the 31st TIFF /VCG Photo)