BY Bowie Lee Kah Hee 

PENANG – Han Chiang University College of Communication (HCUC) had successfully held a film sharing session by Director Lu Cheng at the Auditorium on the 24th October 2024.

Students and lecturers enjoying the film based on The Journey to the West.

The screening of Havoc in Heaven, a 2020 Beijing Opera Film Project, brings audiences into the lively world of traditional Chinese mythology with stunning performances and vivid images. The movie presents the legendary story of the Monkey King causing havoc in the Palace of Heaven, and the audience was deeply impressed by the perfect combination of the classic story and the art of opera.

Following the screening, director Lu Cheng took to the stage to share his experiences and challenges in bringing the iconic story to life.

Host Tan Choon Wei (from left) and Director Lu Cheng (from right)

In an engaging presentation, Lu Cheng discussed the integration of modern filmmaking techniques with the traditional art of BeiJing Opera, providing insight into the detailed choreography, costume design, and efforts to preserve the original flavor of the opera in film form.

Students asking about the intricacies of Fujian cinema during the Q&A session.

During the Q&A session, students had the opportunity to interact with Director Lu Cheng, asking questions about his filming process, filming techniques, and the cultural significance of adapting traditional opera for a modern audience. Through lively interaction, participants gained a deeper understanding of the film and the timeless art form it represents.

As the highlight of this sharing session, Director Lu Cheng performed a short section of opera, demonstrating his talent for opera.

Director Lu Cheng performing a snippet of BeiJing Opera.

His powerful vocals brought the flavor of a traditional opera house to the auditorium and the students were deeply engaged by his performance.

Students applauding Director Lu Cheng’s spectacular performance.

“I’m very impressed that this movie was made in only 18 days.” Lee Yong Ler, student of Diploma in Broadcasting expressed her impression of the film.

Meanwhile, a student from Bachelor of Communication (Media production), Ooi Ka Chuang, stated, “ The way how they fixed the unexpected problem during the post-production is really not easy.”

Jonas Lee Cheng Xuan, also a student from Bachelor of Communication (Media production), said “ They put a lot of effort into making all things presented in the film smoothly.”

This film sharing event, which was supported by the Fujian Provincial Film Office and other partners, was part of a larger effort to promote China’s cultural heritage through film. It also marked an important moment of cultural exchange and also bridging the gap between traditional Chinese performing arts and modern cinema.

HCUC Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Dr Beh Kok Hooi (first from right) handing the token of appreciation to the representative of the production team.

As a token of appreciation, the representative of the production team was presented with a souvenir by HCUC Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Dr Beh Kok Hooi, marking the end of an enlightening and insightful sharing.