The Hong Kong Film Development Council has provided funding support for the renovation of the Hong Kong Arts Centre cinema. With the upgraded facilities films of more diverse formats and genres can be screened at the cinema to further promote film culture in the community. The Film Development Fund has allocated $4 million for the renovation of the HKAC cinema. An advanced playback system has been installed to run digital and 3D movies in addition to motion pictures shot on traditional film. Auxiliary facilities are also in place for the visually and hearing impaired to enjoy movies. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the HKAC digital cinema on January 8 the chairman of the FDC Jack So said The FDC has been attaching great importance to the incubation and promotion of film culture. There is a need to set up a cinema of an alternative nature in Hong Kong for the screening of small- to medium-budget films art films non-commercial films and FDF-financed films as well as films selected for different film festivals in Hong Kong. He said he believes that the digital cinema at the HKAC will bring film art to a wider audience and promote understanding and appreciation of film culture among the public in particular the new generation. More youngsters will be attracted to join the film industry which will in turn contribute to its long-term development. The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Gregory So; the Head of Create Hong Kong Jerry Liu; and the Honorary President of the HKAC Cissy Pao Watari also attended the opening ceremony today. An FDF-financed film 37 was screened at the digital cinema after the opening ceremony.
