The Circus Comes to Rural England in Calif Chongs Feature Debut High Wire: LFF

A new film titled “High Wire” has made its world premiere. It debuted at the 69th BFI London Film Festival. The festival concludes this Sunday.

The movie tells the story of a young woman’s escape from a predetermined future. It is the feature directorial debut of Calif Chong.

Circus Offers Escape from Family Takeaway in Rural England

The protagonist, Go-Wing, feels trapped. Her life consists of working in her father’s Chinese takeaway and studying. Loneliness and a sense of duty overwhelm her.

Everything changes when a small circus arrives in her rural town. She manages to join the troupe. This new world offers her community, artistic freedom, and a chance to define her own life.

Director Draws from Personal Immigrant Experience

Director Calif Chong co-wrote the script with Jackie Lam. She told The Hollywood Reporter that the story is deeply personal. Chong herself once worked in a restaurant in Manchester’s Chinatown.

She wanted to tell an immigrant story set in the food business. Chong expressed that she was there to build a career, not chase a vague dream. This realistic perspective informs the film’s authentic tone.

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Thought you’d like to know-

Who stars in the film High Wire?

Isabella Wei plays the lead role of Go-Wing. She is joined by actors Dominic Lam Kar Wah and Jose Palma. The cast features a blend of established and emerging talent.

What was challenging about filming the high wire scenes?

The final high wire act was technically very difficult. Cinematographer Matthew P. Scott noted the complexity of the visual effects work. It required extensive planning and coordination on set.

How was the lead actress cast for the role?

Isabella Wei submitted a self-tape audition from Hong Kong. The director was impressed by her bilingual ability and physical expressiveness. She was cast just hours after her submission.

What is the central theme of the movie?

The film explores themes of cultural duty versus personal freedom. It examines the immigrant experience in a rural English setting. The story highlights the search for community and self-fulfillment.

Was any part of the filming particularly difficult for the lead actress?

Wei found the takeaway scenes with her on-screen father challenging. Creating a believable long-term relationship in a confined space required careful acting. These emotional scenes were harder than the physical ones.