The ASEAN Film Festival 2026, organised by the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation in coordination with the ASEAN consulates in the special administrative region, opened on August 20 and will run until September 27.
The largest edition to date features 30 films from ASEAN member states, Hong Kong, mainland China and other countries, showcasing cultural diversity through cinema and music.
Charles China, Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong–ASEAN Foundation, said the festival welcomes films from all 11 ASEAN member states for the first time, including Timor-Leste – ASEAN’s newest member. Works from Russia, Australia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Nepal and Pakistan also broaden the festival’s cultural perspective.
Among the featured films is Vietnam’s historical drama "Sounds Across the Ocean".
Vietnam is taking part in the festival for the fourth time. Vietnamese Consul General in Hong Kong and Macau Le Duc Hanh said Vietnam has consistently selected films with strong artistic and cultural value to introduce the country’s history, culture and people to international audiences.
She expressed her hope that "Sounds Across the Ocean" will leave a lasting impression and further strengthen friendship and people-to-people ties between Vietnam and other countries.
Directed by Dao Duy Phuc and Nguyen Manh Ha, "Sounds Across the Ocean" is set against the backdrop of Vietnam’s resistance war against French colonial rule. It portrays the harsh yet resilient lives and aspirations for freedom of revolutionary fighters imprisoned at Con Dao Prison.
Filmed on location in Con Dao Island, the movie offers an authentic historical setting while highlighting Vietnam’s struggle for national independence and freedom.
Vietnamese entries at previous editions, including "The Life of Yen", "Peach Blossom, Pho and Piano", "Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass" and "Dreamy Eyes", have also won acclaim from Hong Kong and regional audiences./.
