The European premier of this intriguing retrospective narrative strategy film, which reveals much about the relationship between two ordinary office workers Tom (Cheng) and Pearl (Lam), and their colleagues, with whom they share a ride to work with. Expertly subtle performances from Hong Kong superstars Ekin Cheng and Karena Lam explore hidden emotions and the literal ‘claustrophobia’ of the 9-5. Ivy Ho’s screenplays include the highly acclaimed Comrades, A Love Story, directed by Peter Chan and starring Maggie Cheung, and Ann Hui’s July Rhapsody.
We are delighted to welcome director Ivy Ho to introduce Claustrophobia and for a post-screening Q&A. This will be BSL interpreted by Alex McDonald.
Review
“In her first film as director, Hong Kong scripter Ivy Ho gives a masterclass in the tricky art of making a love story whose emotional point is always at one poignant remove from its protagonists’ words and actions. Unspooling backwards in time over one year from last meeting to first stirrings, this underplayed tale of the yearning of a minor manager in a small trading firm for her married boss treats an unremarkable not-quite-love-affair between two unremarkable people with a lyricism and keenness of observation” Lee Marshall, Screen International