After His Exile: Interview with Patrick Tam Ka-ming
Hong Kong film veteran Patrick Tam Ka-ming is a master of film language whose stylish and innovative use of light, color, frame composition, and camera movement create a world of visual exuberance. A key member of the Hong Kong New Wave, a film movement of the late '70s and early '80s, Tam made innovative and bold movies along with other filmmakers such as Tsui Hark, Ann Hui, and Yim Ho. Noted films made during that time include Nomad (1982), The Sword (1980), and My Heart Is That Eternal Rose (1989). As a much-admired film editor, Tam edited Wong Kar-wai's Days of Being Wild (1991) and Ashes of Time (1994) and Johnnie To's Election (2005).
Tam's latest film, After This Our Exile (2006) (pictured, above), marks a major comeback after a 17-year directorial hiatus. The film has garnered major film awards in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan and has been touring the international festival circuit. For a more in-depth article on Tam's career, visit http://www.aaiff.org/cinevue/2007/07/sights_unseen.html.
Listen to interview with Patrick Tam Ka-ming
Interview conducted by La Frances Hui