At the 7th Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIIFF 2025) currently running in Sanya, American filmmaker Jinho Myung and Thai actor Legyaan Thapa are celebrating the debut of their coming-of-age feature Softshell. During their first visit to Hainan, they opened up about the festival’s vibe and the film’s message of cultural connection.
Myung admitted the lush scenery and tropical climate of the Chinese mainland’s southernmost province caught him by surprise. 'I hadn't realized China had such a tropical island,' he said. 'Hainan's warm weather and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place for a film festival.'
For Thapa, the heart of Softshell lies in its portrayal of mixed cultural families. 'Growing up, I experienced how deeply Thai and Chinese cultures are intertwined,' he explained. He believes the story will resonate with audiences who share that cross-cultural heritage.
Myung also noted a shift in local tastes: viewers here are embracing both indie projects like Softshell and Hollywood blockbusters. 'It's an exciting time to see China's growing and widening film appetite,' he said, highlighting the festival’s diverse lineup.
As HIIFF continues this week, the spotlight on films like Softshell underscores the growing importance of cultural exchange in global cinema—and the unique role tropical Hainan plays in bringing storytellers together.
Reference(s):
HIIFF 2025: U.S.-Thai filmmakers highlight cross-cultural connections
cgtn.com
