Soi Cheang and the art of darkness

Maverick Hong Kong filmmaker honored by the city he celebrates in his movies

With "Mad Fate," director Soi Cheang taps into Hong Kong's fascination with the macabre, returning to the milieu with which he first turned heads. (Courtesy of Makerville)

MATHEW SCOTT, Contributing writer

June 11, 2023 11:01 JST

HONG KONG -- Trying to pigeonhole maverick Hong Kong director Soi Cheang can prove a tricky business.

Over his 24-year career, Cheang has messed with any set notions his audiences might have of defined genres. He often sets his characters' constant search for redemption amid intense violence and he weaves these traits into everything from low-budget horror movies and fantasy blockbusters to ice-cold film noir.