‘Fruit Chan’s Made in Hong Kong’ by Esther M. K. Cheung, specifically the chapter ‘In Search of the Ghostly in Context’, begins by discussing the themes of defamiliarization, realism and surrealism in Fruit Chan’s films. The reading also delves into the history of Hong Kong’s public housing, exploring the relationship between low-cost housing and the sense of homelessness seen in lower-middle class people.
I was most interested in how the reading discussed the link between how public housing is portrayed in Fruit Chan’s films. The author states that Chan’s films portray public housing estates ‘like ghost towns’, and that his films associate these estates with a sense of ghostliness. I believe this is a social commentary on the social issues prevalent in Hong Kong. Firstly, Fruit Chan’s depiction of public housing as haunting can be a way for him to highlight the themes of isolation, alienation and struggles faced by underprivileged communities. By using film as a medium, Fruit Chan’s portrayal reflects the disconnection of these groups with the city. The public housing displays how marginalized groups have no sense of belonging to Hong Kong, and their feeling of homelessness is only amplified by the government’s long-term negligence of the social and economic condition of the underprivileged.
Ultimately, this reading invites the reader to reflect on how Fruit Chan’s films can help us reflect on the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the need for greater attention and support for their well-being in Hong Kong.
UID: 3036030831
Name: Chiu Yin Ching