Retrospective: Wong Kar Wai

Film buffs probably don't need an introduction to Wong Kar Wai's works. One of the most iconic auteurs to come out of Asia, the Hong Kong film director is famed for his lush and sensual visuals, poignant soundtracks and soulful romanticism. 

This March and April, Asian Film Archive (AFA) is screening restorations of eight of Wong Kar Wai's films at Oldham Theatre, kicking off its Retrospective series. Seven of the quintessential works have recently undergone brand-new 4K restorations – and will debut in Singapore under the programme. These are As Tears Go By (1988); Days of Being Wild (1990); Chungking Express (1994); Fallen Angels (1995); Happy Together (1997); In the Mood for Love (2000); and 2046 (2004). Ashes of Time Redux (2008) is a re-edited version of its 1994 original and will be screened in its existing form. 

"The eight films presented as part of this retrospective are an invitation into the charismatic and wistful world of a deeply influential artist," AFA says in a statement. "Whether tragically romantic, soaked in blood, or quirkily comedic, his distinctive works have enthralled a worldwide audience and inspired countless filmmakers with their bold stylistic strokes and an enduring enigmatic beauty." 

AFA has also collaborated with Knuckles & Notch (K&N) to commission four artists – Nao Tokunaga, Szeyan (aka Barbarian Flower), Ella Zheng of The Workbench and Ng Yin Shian – to create new artworks inspired by Wong Kar Wai's iconic films. The series of illustrative works will be showcased as part of an exhibition that run alongside the screenings at Oldham Theatre. Want to take home a piece of the Retrospective with you? K&N has also designed cool merch in the form of sticker packs ($10 each), enamel pins ($15-$16), postcard prints ($5), risograph prints ($52) and more inspired by the films. 

For more info, visit asianfilmarchive.org. And if you want to know more about this month's best silver screen offerings, check out the best upcoming movies in Singapore here.