Get ready for a captivating tale as the big top arrives in rural England, bringing with it a whirlwind of possibilities and a fresh perspective for our leading lady. Calif Chong's feature film debut, 'High Wire', premiered at the 69th BFI London Film Festival, leaving audiences eager for more.
The story unfolds with Go-Wing, a young woman whose future seems predetermined, caught between her duties and a crushing loneliness. But when an acrobatic circus rolls into town, it offers her a chance at a different life. With a twist of accidental blackmail, Go-Wing joins the circus, finding a sense of community, artistic freedom, and a future on her own terms.
'High Wire' stars Isabella Wei, Dominic Lam Kar Wah, and Jose Palma, and is a production of Silent D Pictures in collaboration with Make a Difference Films and Ajamax Productions. The stunning cinematography is the work of Matthew P. Scott. Take a sneak peek at the film clip to get a taste of the magic that awaits.
This marks Calif Chong's directorial debut, having primarily worked as an editor. Chong, along with Wei and Scott, shared their insights at a press event during the festival.
Chong revealed her inspiration, saying, "The circus was the perfect setting for my immigrant story, as I myself worked in a Chinatown restaurant in Manchester. I wanted to tell a story about pursuing a career, not just a dream."
Isabella Wei, who landed the lead role after submitting a self-tape audition, shared her excitement, "It was an incredible opportunity to portray a character with such depth and creativity."
But here's where it gets interesting: Chong faced challenges casting for the circus performer role, requiring bilingualism, dance skills, and rollerblading abilities. When she discovered Wei's tape, she knew she had found her star.
Matthew P. Scott, Chong's partner and cinematographer, had an advantage, being part of the planning process. However, he revealed that the technically challenging scene was the final high wire act, requiring extensive visual effects work.
For Wei, the most challenging scenes were those set in the takeaway, where she had to portray a complex relationship with her on-screen father.
'High Wire' is a must-watch, offering a unique perspective on immigration, dreams, and the power of community.
And this is the part most people miss: the film invites us to question our preconceived notions of 'dreams' and 'careers'. Are they mutually exclusive? Or can they coexist, as Go-Wing discovers?
What are your thoughts on this intriguing interpretation? Share your agreement or disagreement in the comments and let's spark a conversation!
