First Question:
In Inception, Cobb’s totem keeps spinning and the ending of the film didn’t include whether it falls or not. So Cobb could be still in his dream or is back to reality. When you base 惑SECTION on Inception, are you trying to imply that architectural students cannot escape from their dream as well? If yes, why?
Reply:
The story of 惑SECTION was a narrated conclusion to the experience of studying architecture at HKU for 5 years. It was conceived at the beginning of the thesis year. At that particular moment, there were both excitement and nervousness in preparing a thesis that will conclude the academic years one spent in HKU architecture. These are very personal aspiration but shared among all classes that would soon be graduating. To complete a thesis felt like the end of a long journey: one that you look forward to experience but dread to re-visit if you fail. The film intended to capture such conflicting state of mind foregrounded by the bitter-sweetness of studio, CAD Lab, Knowles Building stairwell, Yan-ngai stationary store etc.
In a way, the story was written in such a dreamy state of mind, all within one month of contemplation.
Second Question:
In Inception, using memories to construct the dreams is highly dangerous. How do you relate this special feature to architecture or to studio life?
Reply:
Such peril described by the film’s fictional statement should be perceived as opportunity and advantage for creating architecture, both academic wise and in practice. My advice is use your memories without reservation and wisely, for memories are what turns mere building into architecture.
Interviewee: Hour25 Production
Chik Chun Hei (UID: 3035581247)