Cinema as a Shared Language: Celebrating Hong Kong Cinema at TIFF 2026

Written by Fête Chinoise Editorial team
Photography: CCIDAHK, Fête Chinoise Ediotrial Team (Deborah Lau-Yu, Kayla lO)

On the evening of September 13th during the Toronto International Film Festival 2026, international film talents, industry leaders, and platform partners gathered at Malaparte at TIFF Lightbox for Hong Kong Night at TIFF 2026. The evening brought together global creators to celebrate Hong Kong cinema and its expanding footprint on the international stage.

The cinematic highlight of the evening was a spotlight on We Are Born Good, which was selected for TIFF’s competitive Discovery programme. Directed by debut filmmaker Leung-chuen Yeung and starring award-winning actors Suet-ying Chung and Wai-lun Yeung, the film captivated guests with its poignant, witty exploration of modern daily pressures and shared morality. Set against the iconic backdrop of Hong Kong’s Cha Chaan Tengs (traditional tea restaurants), the story uses a humble takeaway order to explore human connection—a setting and theme that readers and film lovers from all over the world can instantly relate to.

Throughout the night, conversations naturally centred around the power of international collaboration. Actress and director Fala Chen shared her vision for fostering future co-productions between Hong Kong and global creative partners to help East Asian stories resonate even further with international audiences.

Among the distinguished guests in attendance was acclaimed director, producer, and actress Sylvia Chang, who served on the prestigious TIFF Platform Competition jury this year, alongside director Feng-I Fiona Roan (Happily Ever After, The American Girl). We also had the pleasure of connecting with the Vancouver-based cast and crew of Rags 2 Richmond, as well as many esteemed Canadian producers who continue to pave the way for cross-Pacific artistic exchanges.

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