On December 20th, Hong Kong director Johnnie To attended the 19th Fresh Wave International Short Film Awards. When asked about director Chow Kwun Wai’s new film “Deadline,” which was recently banned from screening in Hong Kong by the government on grounds of “jeopardizing national security,” To criticized the official suppression of creative freedom, responding, “Isn’t it typical? What’s so surprising about it?”
Chow Kwun Wai directed film “Deadline” was recently banned by the Hong Kong government under the pretext of being “detrimental to national security.” Authorities informed Chow Kwun Wai that after a comprehensive evaluation, it was deemed that the film’s screening would pose a risk to national security (Section 10(2)(d) of the Ordinance) and therefore should not be shown.
Regarding the industry’s response to the incident, Johnnie To candidly remarked, “There are so many things to worry about in this day and age. What is there that we don’t have to worry about? Let things take their course and wait and see!”
To added that the event has minimal impact on his future film projects, indicating his lack of surprise at the ideological control shifting towards mainlandization in Hong Kong. To told reporters, “Isn’t it typical? What’s so surprising about it?”
However, he also admitted, “Of course, it affects my mood because you feel directionless. What can you do? Take a step back, learn from it!” He expressed determination not to lose heart, vowing, “If I haven’t made a film I truly love, I will definitely strive until the end.”
Earlier, when Chow Kwun Wai announced on social media that the film had been banned, he revealed that it was submitted for review on August 4th and had received no response for over four months. He recently received a letter from the authorities simply stating “detrimental to national security” without further explanation. He expressed disappointment that the efforts of investors, actors, and crew members had been wasted, stating “It’s heartbreaking that the film cannot be shown in Hong Kong” and expressing anger at the absurdity and injustice. Nonetheless, he emphasized his commitment to continue making films and looked forward to the day when “Deadline” would be publicly screened in Hong Kong.
In response to the film being banned for reasons of “jeopardizing national security,” a Hong Kong Film Workers’ Association spokesperson, Tin Kai Man, was straightforward during a radio show, stating, “Any commentary must be based on viewing the film and finding where it may impact national security, thus offering constructive feedback.”
Tin expressed concerns within the industry that if films are completed but cannot be screened, investors will seek explanations, but “no one can provide answers.” He directly criticized the government’s move as “opening Pandora’s box in disguise,” seemingly able to label anyone or any film as “detrimental to national security.” He worried that due to film approval obstacles, the industry would refrain from filming in Hong Kong, urging authorities to provide clear guidelines and boundaries to facilitate accountability to investors rather than leaving the industry to speculate and self-censor.
Director Chow Kwun Wai, from films like “Love in a Puff” to “Revolution of Our Times,” has not only showcased his courage to the world but also demonstrated his passion for film. His works represent a unique aspect of contemporary Hong Kong cinema.
Now, faced with the story that cannot be filmed smoothly in Hong Kong, he chose to create “Deadline” in Taiwan. The plot revolves around an elite private school where students study and take exams relentlessly for grades and rankings. One day, “suicide notices” appear around the campus, warning of an imminent suicide event after 7 days…
Set in a virtual realm, the film portrays exams as the students’ sole purpose. In a monitored environment, the school resembles a prison that confines individuals. The cast includes prominent actors such as Anthony Wong, Jennifer Yu, Justin Cheung, Chika Tanaka, Jessie Shum, and Rachel White, who deliver remarkable performances.