With a lot of cultural exchanges and affinity, the ASEAN countries could be good cooperators for Chinese filmmakers, said Stanley Tong, a veteran Hong Kong director best known for Jackie Chan’s kung fu blockbusters.

During the Forum on China-ASEAN Film Development and Cooperation, which was jointly hosted by China Film Foundation and Guangxi Cultural Industry Group in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, in December, Tong alongside some industry insiders discussed the future of international cooperation between China and the ASEAN nations.

Recalling his previous experience of shooting movies in more than 15 countries and regions, Tong - also known for the 2020 movie Vanguard, which has been released in 145 countries and regions - said China and the ASEAN countries have a long history of cultural exchanges, helping each of them to have an easier understanding of the other markets and thus laying the foundation for deeper cooperation.

He also shared his experience in cooperating with actors and actresses from different countries, adding that he has respected the distinctive performing method of each of the cast members shaped by their own cultural backgrounds and customs.