Latest news with #Ajoomma
New Paper
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Paper
'I thought I'd be retired by now': Hong Huifang finds new purpose at 64 in Hainanese opera role
Veteran local actress Hong Huifang is busier than ever in a period of her life when she thought she would be resting. "I thought I would be retired by now," says the 64-year-old, who enjoyed a 40-year career starring in series such as The Unbeatables (1993) and The Price Of Peace (1997). "I felt I had reached a plateau and could not go any further. I thought only young people had opportunities, and there was none left for me." Hong was speaking to The Straits Times at a media event in York Hotel Singapore to promote the SG60 anthology film Kopitiam Days. Then the drama Ajoomma (2022) happened, in which she starred as a widow who becomes stranded in South Korea and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The film, helmed by Singaporean director He Shuming, earned Hong a Best Leading Actress nomination at the Golden Horse Awards. Following that achievement, the idea of retirement was shelved. Her latest projects include local film A Good Child, opening on Oct 9; Taiwanese supernatural series Haunted House Secrets, which aired in June; and the Singapore-Thai mystery thriller series Decalcomania, to be released in 2026. She is starting production on another local drama series co-starring other veteran actors, with details to be announced later. "I was lucky to be in Ajoomma. It brought me up to another level. People watched my performance, they saw my potential and they gave me another chance. I'm so grateful, and as long as my physical and mental health is good, I will carry on working and find new challenges," she says. Actress Hong Huifang earned a Best Leading Actress nomination at the Golden Horse Awards for her role in Ajoomma (2022). ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN In Meet Me At The Pavilion - one of six short films that make up Kopitiam Days - Hong plays Ai Hua, a volunteer performer at a Hainanese opera troupe in danger of going broke unless it can persuade a former sponsor (played by Zhu Houren) to step up again. Directed by Shoki Lin and based on his own family's background in the art form, the role required Hong, who was raised in a mainly Teochew-speaking environment, to brush up on what remained of the Hainanese she had picked up from her maternal grandfather, a native speaker. She practised Hainanese with native speaker and co-star Zhu and also with her opera coach, who is a member of Singapore Hainan Society's opera troupe. "Just as spoken Mandarin is not the same as the Mandarin that is sung in Peking opera, spoken and sung Hainanese are not the same, so I had to train in singing as well as dancing, especially the hand movements. The gentle, flowing hand gestures are hard to do," she says. In a separate interview, veteran local actor Chen Tianwen spoke about his part in another short film, the martial arts-inspired action-comedy Dragon Gate Assembly - one that was a decade in the making, he says. Chen Tianwen in the short film Dragon Gate Assembly, part of the Kopitiam Days anthology for SG60. PHOTO: CLOVER FILMS Chen, 62, gained fame in local martial arts series in the 1990s, and became known for playing a fighting monk in The Royal Monk (1997) and The Royal Monk II (1998). At the gala premiere of his 2015 comedy movie Mr Unbelievable, he and Singapore film-maker Eric Khoo chatted, during which the director promised the actor they would work together one day. Khoo, executive producer and creative director of Kopitiam Days, then suggested to Dragon Gate Assembly director Yeo Siew Hua that Chen be included in the project. (From left) Director Yeo Siew Hua with actors Chen Tianwen, Xenia Tan and Tay Ping Hui, who are in action-comedy Dragon Gate Assembly. ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN He and co-stars Tay Ping Hui, Xenia Tan, Richie Koh and Kung Cheung Tak play characters who assemble at a coffee shop, representing the famous inns of wuxia. Chen says: "So when I talked to Eric again for this short film, I told him, 'I've been waiting 10 years for your call.'"
Straits Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Hong Huifang and Chen Tianwen star in Kopitiam Days SG60 film anthology
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Actress Hong Huifang in the short film Meet Me At The Pavilion, part of Kopitiam Days, an SG60 anthology film. SINGAPORE – Veteran local actress Hong Huifang is busier than ever in a period of her life when she thought she would be resting. 'I thought I would be retired by now,' says the 64-year-old, who enjoyed a 40-year career starring in series such as The Unbeatables (1993) and The Price Of Peace (1997). 'I felt I had reached a plateau and could not go any further. I thought only young people had opportunities, and there were none left for me.' Hong was speaking to The Straits Times at a media event in York Hotel Singapore to promote the SG60 anthology film Kopitiam Days. Then the drama Ajoomma (2022) happened, in which she starred as a widow who becomes stranded in South Korea and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The film, helmed by Singaporean director He Shuming, earned Hong a Best Leading Actress nomination at the Golden Horse Awards. Following that achievement, the idea of retirement was shelved. Her latest projects include local film A Good Child, opening on Oct 9; Taiwanese supernatural series Haunted House Secrets, which aired in June; and the Singapore-Thai mystery thriller series Decalcomania, to be released in 2026. She is starting production on another local drama series co-starring other veteran actors, with details to be announced later. 'I was lucky to be in Ajoomma . It brought me up to another level. People watched my performance, they saw my potential and they gave me another chance. I'm so grateful, and as long as my physical and mental health is good, I will carry on working and find new challenges,' she says. Actress Hong Huifang earned a Best Leading Actress nomination at the Golden Horse Awards for her role in Ajoomma (2022). ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN In Meet Me At The Pavilion – one of six short films that make up Kopitiam Days – Hong plays Ai Hua, a volunteer performer at a Hainanese opera troupe in danger of going broke unless it can persuade a former sponsor (played by Zhu Houren) to step up again. Directed by Shoki Lin and based on his own family's background in the art form, the role required Hong, who was raised in a mainly Teochew-speaking environment, to brush up on what remained of the Hainanese she had picked up from her maternal grandfather, a native speaker. She practised Hainanese with native speaker and co-star Zhu and also with her opera coach, who is a member of Singapore Hainan Society's opera troupe. 'Just as spoken Mandarin is not the same as the Mandarin that is sung in Peking opera, spoken and sung Hainanese are not the same, so I had to train in singing as well as d ancing, especially the hand movements. The gentle, flowing hand gestures are hard to do,' she says. In a separate interview, veteran local actor Chen Tianwen spoke about his part in another short film, the martial arts-inspired action-comedy Dragon Gate Assembly – one that was a decade in the making, he says. Chen Tianwen in the short film Dragon Gate Assembly, part of the Kopitiam Days anthology for SG60. PHOTO: CLOVER FILMS Chen, 62, gained fame in local martial arts series in the 1990s, and became known for playing a fighting monk in The Royal Monk (1997) and The Royal Monk II (1998). At the gala premiere of his 2015 comedy movie Mr Unbelievable, he and Singapore film-maker Eric Khoo chatted, during which the director promised the actor they would work together one day. Khoo, executive producer and creative director of Kopitiam Days, then suggested to Dragon Gate Assembly director Yeo Siew Hua that Chen be included in the project. (From left) Director Yeo Siew Hua with actors Chen Tianwen, Xenia Tan and Tay Ping Hui, who are in action-comedy Dragon Gate Assembly. ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN He and co-stars Tay Ping Hui, Xenia Tan, Richie Koh and Kung Cheung Tak play characters who assemble at a coffee shop, representing the famous inns of wuxia. Chen says: 'So when I talked to Eric again for this short film, I told him, 'I've been waiting 10 years for your call.''
Vogue Singapore
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Singapore
Where to eat, drink and go in Singapore according to He Shuming
Filmmaker and screenwriter He Shuming made his debut in 2022 with Ajoomma , a Singapore-South Korea oddball gem that made waves from Busan to the Golden Horse Awards. He is now moving into unexpected territory: directing this year's National Day Parade music video. But don't expect flag-waving cliché—his take is understated, cinematic and a little tender. Trained at the American Film Institute Conservatory and the guest editor for this 'Home' issue, his storytelling lives in quiet gestures and deeply personal vignettes—the same lens through which he views the city we call home. For He, home is a place in one's heart that is familiar and comforting—even if it might not be perfect. When it comes to the creative scene, for instance, he hopes to see a space that is more equitable and sustainable. 'That's not just in terms of funding or access, but in how we hold space for different voices and processes,' he explains. 'I'd like to see the scene grow more introspective, to reflect honestly on where we are and who we're making for. Because only then can we build a fuller, more generous creative landscape, one where more Singaporeans see the arts not as a luxury, but as something vital to civil society.' At the end of the day, he reflects, it is the quiet individuality running through each of us that makes up our local culture. 'The way an auntie dresses to the mall, the underground ballroom scene, or someone opening a home-based pizzeria out of their HDB flat. There's a distinct point of view in all of it. We may not always call it art or culture, but I think it is,' he muses. 'I wish we celebrated that more. Because these choices, these gestures; they're all a reflection of who we are as a society: layered, subtle, and deeply personal.' Here, the filmmaker shares his favourite third spaces in Singapore—from the local restaurants he'd rather gatekeep to under-the-radar stores, bars and neighbourhoods he keeps coming back to. André Wee 1 / 6 The ultimate destination for a good night out: Keong Saik Road has everything. Go to Mami's Tamales for dinner—they make excellent tamales which is hard to find in Singapore—then Tian Wang for Chinese desserts. Continue into the evening at No Sleep Club or Salud for a nightcap (and maybe even more food). I don't drink so I always have the bartender make a mocktail for me, usually something bitter and sour. Courtesy of Summer Hill 2 / 6 The local restaurant you tend to gatekeep: Summer Hill at Claymore Connect. The restaurant is owned by a dear friend of mine, Anthony Yeoh. When he moved here from their first location at Sunset Way, a few friends helped to work on the front sign, the table tops with tiles he sourced and the beautiful copper wall tunnel at the entrance. So, in a small way, it feels like I have a piece of myself there. I always go back to the classics: the duck fat fries and the perfectly brined roast chicken. Simple, honest comfort food. @paraphrase._ 3 / 6 The third space where you feel the most you: Fortune Centre in the Civic District. It's a no-fuss place for a meal or a drink, by yourself or with friends. You can also get your fortune told or see a TCM sinseh . It's a one-stop shop for all your wellness needs. Courtesy of Hock Siong & Co. 4 / 6 A hidden gem shopping address: I love window thrift-shopping, so Hock Siong & Co is a fun place to visit for pre-loved furniture and just about anything. It reminds me of going into a movie props shop. @ 5 / 6 Best date-night spot: Somma at New Bahru. Pasta for a date, yes. Out-of-this-world pasta is a double yes, coupled with impeccable vibes and flattering lighting. Sometimes we forget how important lighting is. @apartmentcoffee 6 / 6 Your favourite coffee haunt: Apartment Coffee along Selegie Road. Lately, with this wretched heat, an iced espresso with tonic water has been my order of choice. Sometimes a Kopi-O Kosong at any Kopitiam is good too. Photography Zantz Han Illustration André Wee Outfit Hermès
Straits Times
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Andie Chen urged by fellow actors not to feel discouraged after Best Actor loss
Find out what's new on ST website and app. Actress Hong Huifang urged actor Andie Chen to keep persevering and not be discouraged by his loss at the Star Awards. SINGAPORE – Local actor Andie Chen may have missed out again on the Best Actor accolade at the Star Awards on July 6, but veteran actors Hong Huifang and Chen Hanwei believe what he lacked was a bit of luck. Andie Chen, 40, was nominated for his role as a strict father in family drama Born To Shine (2024). He lost to Christopher Lee, 53, who played a father whose daughter was killed in crime mystery drama Kill Sera Sera (2024). The Best Actor nomination was Chen's fourth at the Star Awards. He has been nominated six times for Best Supporting Actor. On July 12, Hong, 64, shared on social media photos of her meet-up with Chen and other artistes, such as his wife Kate Pang; Felicia Chin and her husband Jeffrey Xu; and Aileen Tan. 'You were the winner of Star Search 2007, and along the way, we have seen you working hard consistently,' Hong wrote, addressing Chen. 'Although you have missed out on the awards many times, it is not because you are not good enough, but sometimes you just lack a little bit of luck.' Hong, who was nominated for Best Leading Actress for the film Ajoomma at Taiwan's Golden Horse Awards in 2022, urged him to keep persevering and not be discouraged. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Singapore to train more aviation and maritime officials from around the world Singapore Special edition SG60 Nets card now on sale for $10 Singapore 18 years' jail for woman who hacked adoptive father to death after tussle over Sengkang flat Business Singapore's economy sees surprise expansion in Q2 despite US tariff uncertainty: Advance estimate Singapore Jail, caning for man who had 285 child porn videos, including those that show infants Singapore Jail for woman who opened bank accounts that received over $640.7m, including scam proceeds Singapore Driver assisting with police probe after e-bike rider injured in hit-and-run in Hougang Sport After Olympic heartbreak, Singaporean swimmer Chantal Liew turns pain into inspiration 'I believe that one day, the applause for you and the trophy will arrive, and you will finally stand on the stage meant for you,' she wrote. Chen Hanwei, one of the most decorated actors in Star Awards' history, shared similar sentiments on social media on July 7. ' You are good, but you just lack a little luck,' the 55-year-old wrote, sharing a photo with Andie Chen. 'Don't be discouraged, maintain your attitude and positive energy, as your attitude is your best fengshui. Keep going, believe in yourself and one day, you will find your own success.' Andie Chen admitted in a social media post on July 7 that he felt a twinge of loss and loneliness after missing out on the award . 'But I didn't lose heart,' he wrote. 'Because over the years, I have my family, team, friends, and you who have always supported me. Every time you speak up for me, it is my motivation to keep working hard. Thank you.' He added: 'Putting aside my own little drama, I'm actually happy for my friends when I see them winning awards. Who isn't working hard for their dreams?'
AsiaOne
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- AsiaOne
'You worried about us too much': Tay Ying has heart-to-heart talk with mum Hong Huifang before marriage
In an Instagram Reel uploaded yesterday (June 5), local actresses Hong Huifang and Tay Ying sat down together to have a heartfelt talk about their relationship as mother and daughter. It's just in time before Tay Ying's wedding to celebrity chef Wu Sihan, which will be happening this month. Using a mini gacha machine to draw out questions, Huifang, 64, asked Tay Ying, 29: "What is one thing I didn't do well as a mother?" After a moment of contemplation, Tay Ying replied: "You don't love yourself enough. When we were younger, you worried about us too much — and then you forget about yourself. So I think in this season of life, it's time to love yourself more." "I think I will, because I left not too long anymore," Huifang joked, drawing a loud "Aiyoh" from Tay Ying. Huifang and her actor husband Zheng Geping, 61, also have son Calvert, 25, who's a singer-actor. When asked to share their proudest moments of one another, Tay Ying talked about her mother starring in Singaporean-South Korean film Ajoomma (2022). It was when Huifang attended a gala screening and many people in the showbiz industry gathered around her in applause. "In that moment I also felt so proud of myself," Huifang reminisced. Her proudest moment of Tay Ying is knowing that she's about to get married. She said fondly: "I'm so happy you finally found the man of your dreams." This left Tay Ying sighing: "Done so many good things in my life as a daughter but this is the only one." Huifang added: "This is your happiness. It's most important. I spent the first half of my life taking care of you and now someone else is taking care of you in my second half." Thereafter, Tay Ying asked Huifang: "Is there ever a moment where you wanted to leave your relationship?" Huifang incredulously said: "No." Advising the soon-to-be wife on maintaining a relationship, she said: "Both parties grew up in different environments — his and your habits are bound to be different, and so will your tempers. If you plant a tree, you must water it. You can't leave it there. Otherwise, it'll die. So you have to manage [your relationship] for it to last long." She also revealed when she found that she and Geping's spark has gone out, she suggested they go "find some spark", such as going on vacation together. Tay Ying also asked Huifang on what her biggest fight with Geping was, which happened to revolve around teenage Tay Ying. Mum explained: "Papa spoiled you a lot, and I wanted to beat you because you did something wrong. I didn't in the end, even though I wanted to — I couldn't bear to do it." Huifang is starring in the upcoming film A Good Child, which stars Richie Koh and Cheryl Chou. Tay Ying has been nominated for Star Awards 2025 in two categories: Top 10 Most Popular Female Artistes and BYD Favourite Female Character. [[nid:718802]]
