Macao 12.15pm (UK 4.15am)
A GALAXY of stars from Asian (Chinese) cinema descended on the red carpet as the International Film Festival and Awards Macao got under way last night (December 5).
For six days (December 5-10), the tiny island state now part of China and run under the same system as in Hong Kong (one country, two systems) becomes a hub for film lovers all over the region and indeed globally.
There are some 50 film features on offer and various stands showcasing both new Chinese cinema and films from Macau itself as it marks 20 years of being part of China and ending its some 400-year association with Portugal (as a colony).
We will be looking at points of interest for South Asian film lovers – ‘Bombay Rose’ – which premiered in Venice and came to London Film Festival is in the international competition. Director Gitanjali Rao walked the red carpet last night. She spoke to us in London, so we will be looking at new films and personalities we haven’t covered at previous festivals.
Bollywood star Bhumi Pednekar is set to come here with Variety’s Rising Asia stars.
We will also be looking at British points of interest and watching films from the New Chinese Cinema section.
Tricia Tuttle, London Film Festival’s director is on the new Chinese Cinema jury here and also walked the red carpet last night.
Last night we saw the Chinese smash and critically acclaimed ‘Better Days’. More on this to follow, laters…
So follow us in real-time on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook and look out for a video or two on our Youtube channel…
All pictures: BigTalentMedia (www.asianculturevulture.com)