Final Video Essay
Vibrant Night of Hong Kong
Director: Fung Chi Him (3036058209)
link: https://youtu.be/7hoAPZRHQ6Q
Hong Kong, a unique energetic vibrant city on the southeastern coast of China, is renowned for its bustling streets, and a unique cultural background. Among all these features one special element stands out and draws our attention when you visit one famous tourist spot Yau Ma Tei and the element is —-Neon Light. The neon lights of Hong Kong have long been an iconic symbol of its urban landscape. The large number of neon signs in Hong Kong was one of the characteristics of Hong Kong, and many movies were specially filmed in Hong Kong for this reason. For example, A Light Never Goes Out.
However, numerous neon signs have been taken down since the Buildings Department issued statutory removal orders in 2010, leading to the gradual disappearance of a unique facet of vernacular visual culture. The emergence and decline of neon signs tell rich stories of everyday life, spatial culture, community memories, and socio-economic change. As a local people grow up in Hong Kong you can observe that the number of neon lights that we can see is gradually decreasing. Through the reason of renovation of the old building in Yau Ma Tei or Portland Street, the neon light that hangs outside the wall seems faded out from this generation.
Therefore I decide to become a tourist and walk through the Nathan Road and some streets nearby. The reason why I choose to start at Jordon and walk to Mong Kok is that most of the neon light is located at there and you can observe the old neon light and witness the change of neon light. No matter the number or the transformation of neon light. In the video, you can see that a lot of large-scale neon light is removed. Only a few of the pawnshop’s neon light can be kept such as “Tak Sang Pawnshop” which is shown in the video. Moreover, I observed that some of neon light is replaced by LED lights like “Fu Wing Pawnshop”. Although the neon light in Hong Kong is vanishing, there are a few stores would rather use neon lights as shop signs like one of the snack shops which near Langham Place and the pet shop at Mong Kok call “Q Cat Family”. At the end of the video, a comprehensive contrast can be presented to showcase the profound impact of neon lights. These luminous creations not only embody unique characteristics but also hold a collective memory cherished by the locals. By highlighting this contrast, viewers can grasp the significance of neon lights in shaping the identity and cultural fabric of the community.
To conduct the research, primary and secondary sources will be used. Primary research will involve visiting different areas of Hong Kong, such as Yau Ma Tei, to witness the diverse array of neon lights firsthand. By exploring the streets and observing the various types of neon signage, I will gather valuable visual information for the video essay. The colors, designs, and placement of the neon lights will provide insights into their aesthetic appeal and how they contribute to the overall ambiance of the city.
During these visits, I will also engage with local residents, business owners, and tourists to gather their perspectives on the significance of neon lights in Hong Kong. Conversations with shop owners who display neon signs will shed light on their motivations for using this form of advertising and their thoughts on the changing landscape of neon lights in the city. These on-the-ground interactions will provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and economic impact of neon lights in Hong Kong. Such as the pet shop at Mong Kok.
In addition, secondary sources will also provide a comprehensive analysis of neon lights in Hong Kong. Publications, books, and academic journals will be consulted to gain historical context and insights into the development of neon signage in the city. For example, I have a deeper knowledge of neon light by knowing its architectural language and the impact of the ‘Symbol in Space’ through reading the article “The Imageable City – Visual Language of Hong Kong Neon Lights Deconstructed”. By utilizing of both primary and secondary sources will ensure a comprehensive exploration of the subject matter, providing a deeper understanding of the historical, cultural, and economic significance of neon lights in the city.
When I shoot this video I decide to use an eye level shot. It is because I want to use first person perspective to show the picture or the view that the tourist will see or the image in our eyes. Using eye-level shots will allow the audience to feel as though they are strolling through the bustling streets of Hong Kong. It can create an immersive experience audience can feel like they are actually visit Hong Kong and enjoying the fascination of neon light.
In conclusion, the neon lights of Hong Kong hold immense cultural and historical value, shaping the city’s identity. Through immersive visuals and a first-person perspective, we aim to convey the captivating allure of neon lights as viewers stroll through the bustling streets. It is crucial to recognize and cherish this aspect of Hong Kong’s heritage, embracing the spirit of unity and preserving our cultural identity for future generations. Let us appreciate and celebrate the enduring icons that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of this remarkable city.
Bibliography
Kwok, B. S. (2020). The Imageable City – Visual language of Hong Kong Neon lights deconstructed. the Design Journal, 23(4), 535–556. https://doi.org/10.1080/14606925.2020.1768770