London East Asia Film Festival 2021

The opening and closing galas of the 2021 edition of the London East Asia Film Festival.

This year’s selection runs the gamut from domestic sci-fi, trippy romance and personal stories in the age of COVID-19 to work by some of the most inspiring Asian filmmakers, from South Korea and Hong Kong to Thailand, Taiwan and Japan.

There’s a strong emphasis on crime in this year’s competition line-up, alongside piercing social drama and an exploration of identity. Three films from China are joined by three films from Hong Kong, two from Taiwan, and one title each from South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines and Japan.

Though known for its action and martial arts cinema, Hong Kong’s film industry has long championed the richness of its diverse culture. This selection of films reflects that mindset, ranging from hardboiled thrillers to moving drama and romantic comedy.

Personal identity is the constant amongst this selection of documentaries. From the personal life of an artist and portrait of a filmmaker to the way we shape our culture in print and the dangers of negating cultures in states of transit, these films articulate the need to be recognised.

A Taiwanese New Wave classic, an early role by an Oscar winner and the enthralling debut of a much loved and sorely missed filmmaker make up this year’s retrospective selection.