Written by Dean Head on Jul 10, 2018. Posted in Contributors

Director Dean Head on the benefits of filming in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is the perfect backdrop for filmmakers to shoot their film, TV and commercial productions. The architecture is daring and refreshingly different while the contrasts between the modern and traditional are interesting and surprising.

Hong Kong's visuals are so inspiring they heavily influenced the look and feel of one of cinema's most famous fictional cities, Gotham (pictured below). The weather can be challenging which makes up part of its visual charm as the most beautiful and atmospheric images are often captured in imperfect conditions.

"The rhythm of the city pulsates around them in colourful, dappled, out-of-focus neon."

Imagine a love story where a couple find each other again on a street at night. You gently throw focus through the rain to find them. They come together and kiss. The music climaxes, the rhythm of the city pulsates around them in colourful, dappled, out-of-focus neon. The world is theirs for the taking but they are completely unaware of their brooding surroundings, the hustle and bustle of city life or the torrents of water falling on them... this can all be captured in Hong Kong.

"Their egos are always parked at the door before they come in and professionalism reigns."

Hong Kong's rules and policies for filming have a reputation for being convoluted, but the Government is simplifying filming permissions and is keen to work with foreign productions. A naturally conservative region, Hong Kong is making a real effort to be more open and film friendly. Officials now appreciate the marketing and branding opportunities from having foreign productions film there.

The crews are outstandingly good and very supportive. Their egos are always parked at the door before they come in and professionalism reigns. Hong Kong is the city of Jackie Chan so they are more than used to a need for a fast-paced, efficient filming style.

I pride myself on being a bridge between the different cultures and language, we all pull together to give the best possible experience to our foreign colleagues.

We've all worked on Hollywood blockbusters like Transformers 4 (pictured), Spy Game, Rush Hour II, Tomb Raider II, Batman - The Dark Knight, Covert Affairs, The Romanoffs and many more.

Hong Kong is a great place to film for those with a strong visual literacy and these days just about anything is possible.

Click here to contact Dean.