Mabel Cheung, a renowned Hong Kong director, left an indelible mark on cinema with her insightful portrayal of 1980s New York City in “The Illegal Immigrant” (1985) and “An Autumn’s Tale” (1987). Drawing from her own experiences in New York while studying at NYU, Cheung’s films offer a unique perspective on the city’s tumultuous era, marked by dereliction and danger.
“The Illegal Immigrant,” Cheung’s graduation film from NYU, is a semi-documentary style movie that delves into the life of immigrants amidst gangland violence in New York’s Chinatown. This film stands out for its use of non-professional actors, many of whom were part of the community and even played themselves, adding authenticity to the narrative. It was a bold representation of the struggles and challenges faced by immigrants during that time.
On the other hand, “An Autumn’s Tale” is a more conventional film compared to its predecessor. It revolves around the bittersweet romance between two immigrants, portrayed by stars Chow Yun-fat and Cherie Chung. This film captures the essence of immigrant life in New York and the complexities of love and timing.
Cheung’s journey into filmmaking began with a desire to be a media reporter, leading her to study English and Psychology at Hong Kong University, followed by a diploma course in drama and media at Bristol University in the UK. Her transition to filmmaking was spurred by a stint as a translator for the BBC and later working for Hong Kong broadcaster TVB.
The financial support for “The Illegal Immigrant” came unexpectedly from Shaw Brothers’ production chief Mona Fong Yat-wah, who provided HK$1 million for Cheung’s thesis film. This support not only enabled the high production values of the film but also led Cheung to her association with D&B Films, for whom she made “An Autumn’s Tale.”
Cheung’s films are not only significant for their cinematic quality but also for their personal touch. The experiences and challenges she faced as an international student in New York resonate throughout her work, offering a unique blend of documentary realism and narrative storytelling. “An Autumn’s Tale” and “The Illegal Immigrant” are considered part of Cheung’s “Migrant Trilogy,” which culminates with “Eight Taels of Gold.” Her recent work includes the documentary “To My Nineteen-year-old Self,” continuing her legacy of impactful storytelling.
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