China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 20 Week of 14 October 2024
(1) Tencent Music Entertainment Group Inks Strategic Partnership with Galaxy Corporation
Tencent Music Entertainment Group has partnered with Galaxy Corporation to exclusively promote G-Dragon’s upcoming regional concerts featuring AI and mixed reality technologies.
(2) Streaming Service Max is Coming to Hong Kong This November
Max is set to be launched in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia on 19 November, featuring exclusive HBO Originals and popular franchises like “Harry Potter”.
(3) One Direction’s Hong Kong Gig Recalled as Liam Payne’s Death Shocks World
A lookback at Liam Payne and Hong Kong as fans are mourning the loss of One Direction member, who tragically died at 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires.
(4) Fan Bingbing’s “Green Night” Set to Premiere Globally on October 18
The drama film “Green Night”, marking Fan Bingbing’s return to film after a hiatus, will be released worldwide on 18 October.
(5) Hong Kong’s Film Industry Leaders Hail Trade Deal with Mainland, Seek Clarity on Details
The Hong Kong film industry welcomes a new free-trade agreement with mainland China that lifts investment restrictions and allows local filmmakers to distribute films in the country.
(6) HK singer Eason Chan realises dream as he teams up with Roger Federer at Shanghai Masters
Hong Kong singer Eason Chan teamed up with Roger Federer at the Shanghai Masters, winning a 3-2 match against Zhang Zhizhen and Fan Zhendong, and received Federer’s match racquet in a memorable encounter.
(7) AI-Driven Music Takes Center Stage at 7th “China Now Festival” in New York
The 7th “China Now Music Festival” has kicked off at Carnegie Hall, showcasing the theme “Composing the Future” and the impact of artificial intelligence in music.
(8) Hong Kong Olympic Heroes Presented with US$2.3 Million in Cash Rewards at Sha Tin Race Day
Hong Kong’s Olympic medalists were awarded a total of HK$17.625 million on a recent race day at the Hong Kong Jockey Club, while the government pledged a stronger commitment to the city’s sports development.
(9) Stephy Cheng Celebrates Birthday with Big News: First Solo Concert at Hong Kong Coliseum Set for March Next Year
Singer Stephy Cheng celebrated her birthday with fans at a special event where she announced her upcoming first solo concert at the Hong Kong Coliseum in March next year.
(10) Taiwanese Band Wendy Wander Takes on Korean Language Challenge by Covering Popular Song from Korean Group Lacuna
Taiwan’s Wendy Wander and Korea’s Lacuna have collaborated on covers of each other’s tracks, a celebration of their friendship that defies language and cultural differences.
(11) Supreme Expands Online Shop to New Regions in Asia
Supreme is set to expand its presence in Asia by launching its online store in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore, following its recent acquisition by EssilorLuxottica.
(1) Tencent Music Entertainment Group Inks Strategic Partnership with Galaxy Corporation
(Photo Credit: Tencent Music Entertainment)
Tencent Music Entertainment Group (“TME”) has announced a strategic partnership with Galaxy Corporation, the agency representing global superstar G-Dragon, for his upcoming regional tour. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in TME’s efforts to enhance its global presence and position in the international music landscape. TME will serve as the exclusive tour partner for G-Dragon’s concerts across various markets, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Australia, and New Zealand.
During the signing ceremony on 17 October, TC Pan, Group Vice President of Tencent Music Entertainment, emphasized the partnership’s importance, stating that “Working with a renowned global artist like G-Dragon aligns seamlessly with TME’s vision of connecting international audiences with exceptional music experiences”.
Galaxy Corporation CEO Yongho Choi also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and highlighted plans to integrate AI, AR, mixed reality, and robotics into the concert experience. TME has been actively broadening its international reach through initiatives like its Global Music Outreach program, which promotes Chinese artists on global platforms. With this strategic partnership, TME aims to elevate G-Dragon’s overseas tour experience, offering fans new ways to connect with his music while further establishing TME’s influence in the global music industry.
News Source: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tencent-music-entertainment-group-inks-strategic-partnership-with-galaxy-corporation-302278972.html
(2) Streaming Service Max is Coming to Hong Kong This November
(Photo Credit: Max)
The streaming service Max, previously known as HBO Max, is set to launch in Hong Kong and several Southeast Asian countries on 19 November. Warner Bros. Discovery announced the expansion into seven new markets, including Taiwan, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, promising a diverse selection of high-quality entertainment from beloved brands like “HBO”, “Harry Potter”, “the DC Universe”, and “Cartoon Network”.
Originally launched in the US in 2020, Max has since dropped “HBO” from its name and introduced a range of original programming, including the Elizabeth Olsen miniseries “Love & Death” the gripping crime thriller “Tokyo Vice” and the acclaimed post-apocalyptic drama “The Last of Us” With its arrival in Asia, Max will offer exclusive HBO Originals such as “Dune: Prophecy” the “Game of Thrones” prequel “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms”, a new “Harry Potter” series, along with new seasons of “House of the Dragon” and more.
Complete details of Max’s subscription plans have not yet been disclosed, however it is known that a standard subscription will permit simultaneous streaming on two devices in full HD. Meanwhile, the ultimate subscription will allow streaming on four devices simultaneously in 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos, when available.
News Source: https://www.lifestyleasia.com/hk/entertainment/streaming/max-is-coming-to-hong-kong-in-november/
(3) One Direction’s Hong Kong Gig Recalled as Liam Payne’s Death Shocks World
(Photo Credit: Christopher Polk/Getty Images)
Fans of One Direction are mourning the loss of founding member Liam Payne, who has tragically passed away at the age of 31. Reports indicate that Payne was found dead outside a hotel in Buenos Aires in Argentina after falling from the balcony of his third-floor room. The news has prompted an outpouring of condolences on social media from fans and celebrities worldwide.
One Direction, formed in 2010, gained global fame with hits like “What Makes You Beautiful” and “Story of My Life” The band performed their first and only concert in Hong Kong on 18 March 2015, as part of their “On The Road Again Tour”, which included stops in Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The concert in Hong Kong was described as a scene of “mass hysteria” with a review highlighting the overwhelming excitement of the predominantly young audience.
The band, originally comprising five members, captured attention during their time on the British talent show “The X Factor”, where Simon Cowell recognized their potential. The Post reviewer noted the group’s enthusiasm and strong stage presence, particularly praising Payne, Harry Styles, and Niall Horan for their charm and audience engagement. However, tensions within the group were apparent, as Zayn Malik announced his departure from the Asian leg of the tour shortly after the Hong Kong show, eventually leaving One Direction altogether. The band later entered an indefinite hiatus in January 2016, having achieved six top 10 hits on the US Billboard charts and amassing a dedicated global fan base known as “Directioners”.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3282681/one-directions-hong-kong-gig-liam-paynes-death-shocks-world
(4) Fan Bingbing’s “Green Night” Set to Premiere Globally on October 18
(Photo Credit: DEMEI Holdings Limited)
The highly anticipated Hong Kong drama film “Green Night” directed and written by Han Shuai, is set to hit theaters worldwide on 18 October. Starring Fan Bingbing, Lee Joo-young, and Kim Young-ho, the film follows Jin Xia, played by Fan Bingbing, an oppressed Chinese immigrant working at customs in Incheon Airport. When she encounters a suspicious green-haired girl, portrayed by Lee Joo-young, their connection leads Jin Xia into a dangerous world of drug trafficking.
Fan Bingbing’s return to the screen is particularly notable after her absence from the public eye due to a tax evasion scandal that sidelined her career. Reflecting on her time away, she expressed that the experiences have enriched her artistic growth and provided new perspectives for her role. The character of Jin Xia marks a departure from her previous portrayals, as Fan navigates a life surrounded by violence, ultimately finding herself through her bond with the green-haired girl.
Distributed by Film Movement, “Green Night” has already garnered attention, bolstered by Fan Bingbing’s performance and its nomination at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film’s dynamic noir style, combined with its exploration of violence, freedom, and personal choice, sets it apart from traditional thrillers.
(5) Hong Kong’s Film Industry Leaders Hail Trade Deal with Mainland, Seek Clarity on Details
(Photo Credit: Elson Li)
The film industry in Hong Kong has welcomed the recent expansion of the free-trade agreement with mainland China, which aims to eliminate barriers for local filmmakers. The amendment to the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (“Cepa”), signed on Wednesday, proposes to lift investment restrictions for film companies and allows Hong Kong firms to distribute locally produced films in the mainland market. This development is seen as a significant step toward in enhancing collaboration and opportunities for Hong Kong’s vibrant film sector.
Tenky Tin Kai-man, spokesman for the Federation of Hong Kong Filmmakers, expressed optimism about the new measures but emphasized the need for clarity on operational details. He raised important questions regarding how films will be classified when entering the mainland: whether they will be considered “Hong Kong films” or “mainland productions.” Clear guidelines and briefing sessions will be essential for companies to navigate the new regulations effectively to ensure they can fully leverage the opportunities presented by the expanded agreement.
Crucindo Hung Cho-sing, chairman of the Federation of Motion Film Producers of Hong Kong, noted that the ability for local film companies to distribute their own films on the mainland would significantly improve promotional strategies and screening arrangements. Currently, Hong Kong production companies rely on third-party distributors, limiting their control over marketing efforts. The recent changes aim to further integrate Hong Kong’s film industry with the mainland, reflecting the industry’s aspirations and enhancing its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market.
(6) HK singer Eason Chan realises dream as he teams up with Roger Federer at Shanghai Masters
(Photo credit: Weibo of Fan Zhendong)
Hong Kong singer Eason Chan had a thrilling experience when he teamed up with tennis legend Roger Federer at the recent Shanghai Masters. Chan, an avid tennis player aged 50, played alongside the 43-year-old superstar in a three-game match against Chinese professional tennis player Zhang Zhizhen and Olympic table tennis champion Fan Zhendong.
Eason Chan, who began playing at the age of seven, showcased his impressive skills alongside Federer at the thrilling match against Zhang and Fan, in which the Chan-Federer duo emerged victorious with a 3-2 win. In addition, Chan was also seen asking Federer for autographs on a copy of his biography, a racquet, and a tennis ball. To Chan’s astonishment, Federer handed him the racquet he had used during the game. “My daughter made fun of me, saying that she has never seen Daddy acting like a fan. Haha!” Chan said as he reflected on the special moment with Federer. In return, Chan gifted Federer a copy of his music record and merchandise of his concert.
This memorable encounter comes after Chan’s recent recovery from a heatstroke incident in June, which left him with a broken cheekbone and a deep cut on his jaw. Despite those challenges, Chan was back on the tennis court in no time, determined to impress his idol and live out a dream that had once seemed impossible.
News Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/15/superstar-gets-good-serve-from-federer
(7) AI-Driven Music Takes Center Stage at 7th “China Now Festival” in New York
(Photo Credit: Zack Zhang/Xinhua)
The 7th “China Now Music Festival” recently opened at Carnegie Hall in New York City, during which it placed a bold emphasis on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (“AI”) in music. This year’s theme, “Composing the Future”, underscores the integration of AI technology with traditional music composition. The opening concert featured groundbreaking orchestral works like “Overture: Welcome” and “A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains” created by the CCOM’s AI and Music Information Technology Department. These pieces exemplified how AI programming can produce effects and compositions that traditional methods cannot achieve, which offered a glimpse into the future of music.
Running until 19 October, the festival is co-hosted by the US-China Music Institute of Bard College Conservatory of Music and the Central Conservatory of Music of China. Artistic Director Cai Jindong remarked during the US-China Music Forum that “Music serves as an excellent lubricant in US-China relations” while stressing the festival’s focus on AI-driven innovation. Composers at the forum explored how AI is reshaping music creation, which offered new insights into this frontier and highlighting the potential for AI to expand artistic possibilities.
Bringing together five generations of composers and musicians from China and the US, the festival showcases notable figures such as Qin Wenchen and Anthony Paul De Ritis. Attendees were captivated by the innovative fusion of AI and music, with one concert-goer praising the unique experience. Founded in 2017, the “China Now Music Festival” aims to deepen appreciation for contemporary Chinese music, having attracted over 10,000 live audience members in its previous seasons.
News Source: https://english.news.cn/northamerica/20241013/812b86b7d37f494098df4f97639b7081/c.html
(8) Hong Kong Olympic Heroes Presented with US$2.3 Million in Cash Rewards at Sha Tin Race Day
(Photo Credit: May Tse)
In a celebration of athletic achievement, a total of HK$17.625 million was awarded to Hong Kong’s Olympic athletes during a recent race day at Sha Tin. Among the honorees, Vivian Kong Man-wai received a HK$6 million cheque as part of the “Jockey Club Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme” for her gold medal in fencing during the Paris Olympics earlier this year.
Kong, who recently retired from fencing, shared her interest in exploring new sports. “I’ve looked into riding horses and signed up for the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s public riding school waiting list, but it’s really long” she noted. She also shared great memories of her recent filming session for an advertisement with jockey Vincent Ho Chak-yiu, where she had the chance to interact with horses.
Alongside Kong, fellow fencer Cheung Ka-long also received HK$6 million for his gold medal, while swimmer Siobhan Haughey was awarded HK$3 million for her two bronze medals. During the award ceremony, Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting local sports as he announced a funding boost of HK$940 million for the Sports Institute in the coming year. He encouraged citizens of Hong Kong to support local athletes as the city prepares to co-host the 2025 National Games.
News Source:https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3282191/hong-kong-olympic-heroes-presented-us23-million-cash-rewards-sha-tin-race-day
(9) Stephy Cheng Celebrates Birthday with Big News: First Solo Concert at Hong Kong Coliseum Set for March Next Year
(Photo Credit: Media Asia Group Holdings Ltd.)
Popular singer Stephy Cheng recently celebrated her birthday with a special event organized by her Fans Club, where over a hundred fans gathered for cake-cutting, singing, and games. The lively atmosphere was filled with excitement when Stephy announced her first solo concert which is set to take place in March next year at the Hong Kong Coliseum. “I have a gift for everyone, but you won’t receive it today. I promise you, in March…” she said, her eyes welling with tears as fans cheered in anticipation.
In a post-event interview, Stephy reflected on her emotions as she admitted that she hoped to keep her tears at bay, saying “I feel so touched, especially looking at so many familiar faces that have supported me over the years. This concert is an important return gift for both them and myself”.
During the celebration, she shared heartfelt moments with the fans, listening to their stories and admiring their “Stephy” collectibles. “It’s been years since I held a birthday party, so I’m really happy today” she remarked. In addition, Stephy also received numerous gifts from her fans, including handmade crafts and a gacha machine.
Since her debut at 19, Stephy has built a loyal fanbase with many supporters having followed her career for nearly a decade. This touching event is yet another demonstration of the strong bond between Stephy and her devoted fans, as they look forward to the singer’s upcoming concert.
News Source: https://www.dotdotnews.com/a/202410/15/AP670e3730e4b0b10d45dde1d8.html
(10) Taiwanese Band Wendy Wander Takes on Korean Language Challenge by Covering Popular Song from Korean Group Lacuna
(Photo Credit: Neighborwood Culture)
Taiwanese band Wendy Wander and Korean group Lacuna have launched a special collaboration, covering each other’s classic tracks to celebrate their friendship that began in 2023. The two bands first connected during the “CHAU CHAU 悄悄通信 Vol. 6 Lacuna x 溫蒂漫步 Wendy Wander” concert organized by the Taiwanese music initiative “Unknown Hasayyo!” in 2023. Despite their language and cultural differences, the two bands continued forming close bonds with each other, and have held a joint performance last year at the “ASIAN POP STAGE” in Seoul.
In their latest collaboration, Wendy Wander chose to cover Lacuna’s “Dancing In the Rain” as it marked the group’s first foray into singing in Korean. The band was particularly drawn to the song’s atmosphere and decided to have their Korean-speaking lead vocalist, Tseng Ni, bring the lyrics to life. This rendition preserves Wendy Wander’s signature style while infusing a dreamy mystique with lush synthesizer sounds, providing a mesmerizing experience for their fans.
In turn, Lacuna reinterpreted Wendy Wander’s “I Want to Be with You” in which they gave a fresh twist to the original lyrics into Korean and infused the song with new depth. Lead singer Jang Gyeongmin rearranged the track to preserve its emotional essence while shifting the tone to a more confident and upbeat atmosphere.
Following the release of the whimsical collaboration, members of Lacuna will take a temporary hiatus due to military service, while Wendy Wander plans to hold a “Midnight Wander” concert in Hong Kong and release more singles in the coming year.
News Source: https://hypebeast.com/hk/2024/10/wendy-wander-lacuna-cover-songs
(11) Supreme Expands Online Shop to New Regions in Asia
(Photo Credit: Supreme)
On 26 October at 10 a.m. local time, Supreme, the iconic streetwear brand, will officially launch its online store services in several Asian regions, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore. This news is sure to excite fans of the brand throughout the area as it is set to provide them with easier access to Supreme’s unique offerings.
Recently in July 2024, Supreme was sold to the Franco-Italian holding company EssilorLuxottica for US$1.5 billion by VF Corporation, which owns iconic eyewear brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley. This acquisition marks a new chapter in Supreme’s business strategy. Following the acquisition, Supreme founder James Jebbia commented that “EssilorLuxottica is a unique partner that recognizes the importance of remaining true to the brand while continuing the operations and developments we’ve built over the past 30 years. This partnership allows us to concentrate on our brand, products, and customers, laying the foundation for long-term success”.
Supreme currently operates 17 stores across the US, Asia, and Europe and has successfully implemented its “Drop” release model internationally; however, it has not yet established an online presence in Asia until now. With the online store launch approaching, Supreme has offered an official mobile application for fans to stay updated on the latest releases.
News Source: https://hypebeast.com/2024/10/supreme-opens-online-shop-new-asia-regions
