The Mage "拾荒法師" Exclusive Film Preview & Post-Screening Discussion
DATE
VENUE
Wang Gungwu Lecture Hall
An exclusive screening and discussion of The Mage "拾荒法師", a supernatural crime thriller by 852 Films, marking the launch of our Arts Industry Bridge collaboration between HKUArts and 852 Films to enhance students' industry exposure and career development.
Exclusive film preview
The Faculty of Arts at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) welcomed a full house to an exclusive screening and discussion of The Mage on October 5, 2026, at the Wang Gungwu Lecture Hall. Organised by the Faculty of Arts (HKUArts) with the support of 852 Films, the event attracted students, staff, alumni, and members of the community, reflecting a strong public interest in Hong Kong cinema and the creative industries.
Produced by 852 Films and directed by the Pang brothers, Danny Pang and Oxide Pang, The Mage is a compelling fusion of supernatural horror and crime. The film premiered internationally at the 30th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, where its lead actress, Ms. Josie Ho, received the Best Fantastic Icon Award. The film recently opened the Midnight Passion section of the Bangkok International Film Festival, becoming the first Hong Kong film to receive this honour. The film will next be showcased at the Sitges Collection of the Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia in Spain, before screening at the Hawai‘i International Film Festival.
Post-screening discussion
Ms. Josie Ho, founder of 852 Films and lead actress of The Mage
Mr. Conroy Chan, producer of the film
Dr. Iman Taheri, who stars in the film
Moderated by Mr. Roy Chow, Senior Professional Practitioner at HKUArts
Following the screening, audience members engaged in a lively discussion with members of the film team, including Ms. Josie Ho, founder of 852 Films and lead actress of The Mage; Mr. Conroy Chan, producer of film; and Dr. Iman Taheri, who stars in the film. The session was moderated by Mr. Roy Chow, Senior Professional Practitioner at HKUArts.
The panel offered valuable insights into the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking, covering topics such as storytelling, acting, production processes, and the evolving landscape of the film industry. The speakers also expressed their appreciation for the creativity and quality of projects produced by HKUArts students, noting the growing demand for innovative talent within the film and creative sectors. The discussion concluded with an enthusiastic question-and-answer session, providing attendees with the opportunity to interact directly with the speakers and share their reflections on the film.
A new partnership
The event also marked the launch of a new partnership between HKUArts and 852 Films under the Arts Industry Bridge initiative. The collaboration aims to enrich students’ learning experiences by creating meaningful opportunities for industry engagement and career development.
As part of this partnership, HKU students can look forward to an exclusive masterclass led by Ms. Josie Ho, offering further opportunities to learn from leading practitioners in the film industry.
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Ming Pao Weekly
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