Given the gloomy economy, investors are being more cautious when betting on film projects. But former pin-up idol turned actress Charlie Young Choi-nei managed to secure HK$13 million in funding for her directorial debut Christmas Rose.
'It definitely was a good start for the project,' Young said. 'It's very encouraging, but securing the investment was only the first step; we have many more steps ahead of us.'
Pitching her story to investors was a major change for Young (right) who is used to having projects come to her. 'It was extremely nerve-racking in the beginning. I wasn't sure how I would impress them,' she said. 'Being an actress helped me get their attention, but at the same time people doubted whether I was serious about the project.'
To prove her dedication, Young took an active role at every step of the process, writing her own synopsis, designing her pitching brochure and meeting investors during the three-day Hong Kong Asia Film Financing Forum, an annual event that helps Asian filmmakers secure backing for their films. Many unexpected questions were thrown at the first-time director during the forum.
'I remember one investor asked me why he should invest in my project and not the others,' she said. 'Being the greenest director out of the 20-plus people in the competition, the others had previous work to show their talent, but I didn't have anything. Thank goodness that I was very involved in every step of my own project; I knew exactly what I was presenting,' she said.
Young received HK$13 million in funding from Beijing-based entertainment company, Chengtian Entertainment 'I think it was my sincerity and dedication to this project that won the investor's heart.'
Her script also won the excellence award at the forum.