World acclaimed Hong Kong film director Yonfan is currently in Paris educating the French on Chinese art and culture, seen through his eyes and his films. He is presenting what he describes as his trilogy - the Peony Pavilion, Bishonen and Bugis Street.
A few months ago, he went to the Venice Film Festival for the world premiere of his latest film, Breaking the Willow, which aims to capture the essence of Chinese opera. 'I am most proud of this film, it is timeless and priceless,' says Yonfan.
But for the moment he is focusing on presenting his works in the French capital as part of a nine-month celebration of all things Chinese. 'I want to see what reaction the French will have to my films; they have a deep sense of understanding of these types of films.'
Yonfan is already well versed in French, having lived there for many years. He jokes: 'You can tell I am old if I am going to be on show at the museum!'
His next project, which starts filming by the end of this year, will feature socialite Teresa Cheung (debt-ridden ex-wife of Kenny B), who says she won't mind appearing naked in the film 'so long as it's artistic'. The film will be set in modern-day Hong Kong - but will be shot on a sound stage in Bangkok (presumably to avoid the prying eyes of the paparazzi).
