YouTube link:
https://youtu.be/68r5O2E5ErY?si=2E9-q-3G58ETHs_u
Disappearing city: Star Ferry
The iconic star ferry is vanishing and it is important to raise awareness on this issue.
Introduction
Exploring the disappearing Star Ferry in Hong Kong, this video essay will delve into the historical significance and cultural pillar of this iconic symbol as a s transportation. Over a century, Star Ferry unquestionably witnesses the growth and transformation of the city. However, the rapid pace of urban development poses a threat to its existence. In this video, we show a journey in person of the director which investigates more about Star Ferry with experience We hope to explore the challenges Star Ferry and the surrounding stakeholders face through this unique journey.
Description
Since 1972, Star Ferry has had a rich history that has left a lasting impression on the citizens of Hong Kong, and it is unquestionably a childhood memory of citizens. It has become an integral part of the city’s transportation landscape. The co-founder of lifestyle and fashion store Goods of Desire (G.O.D.) believes that “The Star Ferry is unique and distinctive”(Young, as cited in LUXE City Guides, 2021). As a famous travel spot, the star ferries have not only provided a means of crossing Victoria Harbor but have also become a symbol of Hong Kong’s identity and heritage. Moreover, it acts as a strong representation of Hong Kong on the international stage.
The appearance of Star Ferry is instantly recognizable. The classic design of the ferries, which is colored with dark green and sharp white, evokes a sense of nostalgia and charm like a morning star. In the video, we show a beautiful scene while taking the Star Ferry: The refreshing sea breezes, breathtaking views of the Victoria Harbor skyline, and the gentle swaying of the boats instill a feeling of serenity and a deep connection to Hong Kong’s maritime roots by crossing the harbor.
The Star Ferry services act as an important component not only for the transportation sector but also for the tourism industry. However, mainly relying on the support of tourism is not stable and vulnerable to alive in the fast pace of urban development, for example during the COVID-19 pandemic era (H. Y. Lee & Leung,2022). One of the key pieces of evidence that led to the decline of Star Ferry that we can see in the video is the booming and panoramic urban development including more convenient transport systems. For instance, the establishment of the MTR and Hung Hom cross-harbor tunnel effectively shortens the transport time for citizens who are always in a fast-paced lifestyle. Therefore, the unstable economic income of Star Ferry led to a well-known historical issue——The 1966 Star Ferry riots, in last 19th century. In the video, after I got off the ferry is the place that held a hunger strike. “A Chinese man who pledged to go on a hunger strike in protest against the proposed Star Ferry fare increase, yesterday attracted the attention of many passers-by,”（South China Morning Post,1966）. This shows the star ferry is greatly relied on and easily affected by external factors. Nevertheless, the loss of this iconic landmark would not only erase a mode of transportation but also sever a connection to the surrounding economy. In the last part of the video, we can see that the business is bleak and seldom have passers-by stopped in their hurry to buy goods. Therefore, Star Ferry is worth and urgent to gain attention in conservation from the society.
Methodology and Production
In the video, I mainly use the second-person and first-person perspective to shoot the star ferry by directly addressing the audience as “you”. Since the beginning of the video, the shooting scenes always started with my footsteps, including the way to get on and get off the star ferry. So this shooting skill increases their engagement to become an active participant to connect with the subject matter in person like experiencing the journey with me. Moreover, the first-person perspectives with point-of-view shots (POV)are used. For instance, the camera moves from the main character to my phone screen and focuses showing what pretty view can be recorded. These shooting skills can allow the audience to visualize themselves as riding the Star Ferry to feel and take in the spectacular views of Victoria Harbor. Furthermore, effective one-on-one conversations are provided in this video to convey the significance of Star Ferry to the citizens of Hong Kong, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for its historical and cultural value.
Reflection
I filmed various elements as I would like to emphasize the sadness of the declining star ferry, including the sky and the situation of the sailors. However, these few incorporated specific scenes may not impressively evoke a sense of loss and nostalgia. On top of this, I should shoot the waiting areas inside Star Ferry Piere, for example, recording shots of empty waiting areas and ticket booths to show the usual crowds and activity are gradually diminishing. So, the idea of decline is reinforced. Moreover, interviewing locals who have unforgettable memories or personal connections to Star Ferry can also be used in the video. By sharing their own stories, the audience can more easily resonate with the emotions of sadness due to the potential loss of this iconic symbol.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this video essay concentrates on the significance of Star Ferry to Hong Kong’s cultural heritage and highlights the emotional connection that it inspires in Hong Kong citizens. Using various filming techniques and powerful storytelling, the video induces a sense of loss and sorrow over the disappearance of this iconic symbol due to different external factors under the urban development. Ultimately, I would like to raise the audience’s attention to appreciating and cherishing the iconic symbols that represent the one-of-a-kind identity and history of Hong Kong through this video journey.
References
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Hollingsworth, J., & Hollingsworth, J. (2017, October 20). The hunger striker who sparked April 1966 Star Ferry riots, and their aftermath. South China Morning Post. https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/short-reads/article/2083386/hunger-striker-who-sparked-april-1966-star-ferry
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Name:Leung Hoi Yiu
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