Eye Catcher Global 2023
Eye Catcher took place during the tumultuous aftermath of the pandemic in Hong Kong. As uncertainty and anxiety loomed over the city, our beloved home and her people are experiencing unprecedented levels of pain and suffering. Ordinary individuals found their senses heightened, let alone artists and creators whose creative spirits are undoubtedly undimmed. Not to mention how every person possesses the potential to tap into their creativity and become a creator. This inescapable weight or feeling of helplessness constantly tugs at us, straining the balance between the mundane and the impermanence. By confronting and embracing these challenges, whether by immersing ourselves in them or soaring above them and by concentrating on what we are still capable of achieving, we can stand alongside the souls who have battled through history and the present day’s struggles.
Therefore, Eye Catcher endeavours to support filmmakers in upholding their vision and sense of community, and to carry on the spirit of cross-disciplinary innovation, independent thought, and self-producing works. In the realm of independent cinema, I believe that two factors are critical: one is the focus on individuality rooted in human nature, and the other is the creativity inspired by empathy. In essence, it involves the steadfast observation of challenges, showing compassion for those affected by it, and delving into the intricacies of the human condition within these struggles. Through the use of light, sound, and storytelling, independent filmmakers can create a profound resonance that speaks to the hearts and souls of their audiences.
At the upcoming ECG 2023, which will feature international guests for the very first time, we place great value on the power of in-person dialogue and the exchange of heartfelt gazes. Be it the unveiling of new projects at the International Pitching Forum, the mesmerising film screenings at the Eye Catcher Showcases, or the thought-provoking discussions at our Industry Forum on innovative platforms and the development of emerging filmmakers, we warmly welcome all attendees to bring their queries, an open-minded approach, and a heart eager to connect with others. We earnestly hope that local filmmakers and industry professionals will not only engage in fruitful discussions with their international fellows but also establish concrete partnerships that lead to meaningful collaborations.
May we find peace in our world, and dance joyfully through life without waiting another century to pass us by.
CHAI Ziwen, Samuel
Director General
Eye Catcher | Renaissance Foundation
創辦「奪目影像」是在疫情期間創傷後的香港。陰霾密佈，人心惶惶。我們所愛的地方和人，正遭受着前所未有的痛苦。普通人也能五感大開，更何況創作人，更何況普通人也都是潛在的創作人。這份難以消解的重或無能為力的輕，拉扯着日常與無常。迎向、擁抱這一切，沉下去或跳出來，聚焦在還可以做的部分，便是與歷史與當世所有困境中的靈魂並肩作戰。
所以，「奪目影像」的初衷是希望協助影像創作人可以不放棄想像、不拋棄同道，將跨媒介實驗、獨立精神與自主製作餞行下去。對於獨立電影，除了這些因素，我覺得有兩件事很重要，一是基於人性的個性，一是基於共情的原創性。簡單說，就是堅韌地注視困境、關切困境中的人，也探索困境中的人性，並用光影聲色、用故事達成共鳴。
在首次有國際嘉賓參與的實體活動ECG 2023中，我們特別珍視面對面的對話、眼神與眼神的交換。無論是國際提案大會的新項目拓展，還是奪目展映的影片盛宴，或是產業論壇探討平台新出路、新導演成長等話題，都希望參加者帶着自己的問題、開放的態度、連結的心。如此，期盼本地影人、業界人士能夠與來自海外的嘉賓不止務虛，還能達成實際的合作。
最後，願世界和平，不用等下世紀再嬉戲。
柴子文
奪目影像 | 文藝復興基金會 總監
