Culture - Sassy Hong Kong

Must-See Hong Kong Art Exhibitions

Sakina Abidi — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 22:00:12 +0000

Here are the newest must-see Hong Kong art exhibitions and shows this month, featuring portrait photography, ceramic creations and ancient Yuanmingyuan zodiac heads.

Our city is home to a treasure trove of artists and galleries, specialising in contemporary to fine art and more. Treat yourself to one of the many stunning Hong Kong art shows on view this month — featuring everything from portraits of migrant domestic workers and work by a female local ceramic artist to ancient treasures from the Old Summer Palace and more. Here’s our pick of the best new art exhibitions to see this September 2023.

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New Art Exhibitions In Hong Kong
Ongoing Art Exhibitions In Hong Kong

New Hong Kong Art Exhibitions

The Descendants

WOAW Gallery presents “The Descendants”, a group presentation of over 20 international artists at K11 MUSEA. Curated and organised by Melanie Lum, Micki Meng and Kevin Poon, the exhibition features oil and acrylic on canvas and runs for just one more week.

When: Until Sunday, 17 September. Open Monday to Friday, 11am to 7pm, and Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays, 11am to 8pm.
Where: 6/F, Kunsthalle, K11 Art & Cultural Centre, K11 MUSEA, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

Hidden Narratives: Portraits of Resilience in Hong Kong’s Migrant Domestic Helper Community

Gretchen So’s photography exhibition sheds light on the invaluable contributions and stories of the Indonesian and Filipina helpers within our community. Featuring 30 beautiful works, “Hidden Narratives” showcases remarkable resilience, vitality and joy during leisure moments — centring migrant domestic workers who’ve been in the city since the 1970s and who endure long hours, limited privacy and other challenges.

When: Until Sunday, 24 September. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm.
Where: Lumenvisum, L2-02, Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre, 30 Pak Tin Street, Shek Kip Mei, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

Colour by Wong May Lee

Presented by Sun Museum, “Colour by Wong May Lee” puts 85 stunning ceramic creations by the local female artist on display. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the “Colour by Lam Yi Kei” exhibition that’s running concurrently showcasing 30 oil paintings.

When: Until Saturday, 7 October, 2023. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10m to 6pm.
Where: Sun Museum, 4/F, SML Tower, 165 Hoi Bun Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

Sediments of Memory

This exhibition presented by Square Street Gallery features Hong Kong artist Emily Kueis’ latest self-portrait paintings, multimedia Hong Kong artist-educator Wendy Tai’s interactive and temporal installations, and Nara-born artist Daisuke Tajima’s fantastical cityscapes rendered with a cartographer’s pen onto handcrafted panels.

When: Until Saturday, 7 October, 2023. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 6pm, and out of hours by appointment.
Where: Square Street Gallery, 21 Square Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

The Grand Gathering of the Century: Zodiac Heads from the Yuanmingyuan and Important Treasures

In collaboration with Singapore’s Asian Civilisations Museum, Indra and Harry Banga Gallery is presenting the second part of its “The Grand Gathering of the Century: Zodiac Heads from the Yuanmingyuan and Important Treasures” exhibition, with a complete set of 12 faithfully replicated zodiac head sculptures from the Yuanmingyuan — the Old Summer Palace.

When: Until Thursday, 30 November, 2023. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 7pm.
Where: Indra and Harry Banga Gallery, 18/F, Lau Ming Wai Academic Building, City University, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

Read More: The Best Museums In Hong Kong

Glimmers of Summer

French artist Ben Arpéa’s series of vibrant works takes you on a sensory journey, capturing specific tranquil summer moments. A midday tennis match under the sun, a serene shaded lunch, a refreshing beach swim; consider it a retreat to the Mediterranean.

When: Friday, 15 September to Saturday, 21 October. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 7pm.
Where: Over The Influence, G–2/F, 52 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

Ongoing Hong Kong Art Exhibitions

Hong Kong Stories

Presented by PhotogStory, the “Hong Kong Stories” group exhibition showcases a collection of old images along with more than 50 old photo books by multiple local and international photographers. Features the late photographers Yau Leung and Ngan Chun Tung and their photos from the 1960s to 1970s and French New Wave set photographer Raymond Cauchetier and daily scenes from 1954.

When: Until Sunday, 17 September, 11am to 8pm
Where: House by Kubrick, 5/F, Cityplaza, Tai Koo, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

Marginal Notes

Curated by Ying Kwok, “Marginal Notes” delves into the unresolved myths, lesser-known facts and untold personal stories surrounding Wong Chuk Hang — akin to making marginal notes for a grand thesis. It brings together local Hong Kong visual and media artists, showcasing textiles, installations, prints, digital arts, drawings and sculptures.

When: Until Sunday, 1 October. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 7pm.
Where: SHOWCASE, Hong Kong Arts Development Council, UG, Landmark South, 39 Yip Kan Street, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

With the Sun, She Quells the Night – A Tribute to Rebecca Pan

CHAT (Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile) presents this tribute exhibition to Hong Kong cultural pioneer Rebecca Pan, whose career spans entertainment, music and art, and who continues to inspire emerging talents today. Conceived in close collaboration with Pan herself, see images, costumes, music records, news clippings and more.

When: Until Monday, 23 October, 11am to 7pm
Where: CHAT/MILL6 Foundation, The Mills, 45 Pak Tin Par Street, Tsuen Wan, New Territories, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry

teamLab Future Park

Mark your calendar — Japan’s teamLab Future Park is making its way to Hong Kong this July! On view until next January, the art collective is taking over 10,000 sq. ft. of Megabox with six multi-sensory, immersive play installations, a dreamlike realm of interactive fun at the crossroads of technology and art. Tickets are available now on FWD MAX Platform and Trip.com.

When: Until Sunday, 14 January 2024, Monday to Friday, 2pm to 10pm and Saturday, Sunday and public holiday, 10am to 10pm
Where: MegaBox, 13/F, Enterprise Square Five, 38 Wang Chiu Road, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $220 for a general adult admission ticket with more packages available — see more and buy a ticket here

Madame Song: Pioneering Art and Fashion in China

M+ presents the first-ever museum exhibition dedicated to the legendary Song Huai-Kuei, widely known during her lifetime as Madame Song, who shaped the landscape of art, fashion, and popular culture in China from the 1980s to the 2000s. View over 320 exhibited items including rare archival materials, garments from prominent fashion designers, movie costumes and footage, artworks, and large-scale tapestry installations.

Sassy Tip: Grab your ticket in advance and don’t miss the accompanying merchandise, including drawstring totes, clutches, lipsticks and more!

When: Until Sunday, 14 April 2024. See museum opening hours here.
Where: West Gallery, M+, 8 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District, West Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $140 for a standard ticket, $98 for M+ members — see all ticket types and buy yours here

The post Must-See Hong Kong Art Exhibitions appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

What To Watch In September: Netflix, Disney+ & More

Team Sassy — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 22:01:37 +0000

What’s new this month across Netflix, Disney+ and more? Featuring plenty of action, comedy and romance, here’s our pick of the best movies, shows and limited series to watch this September 2023.

Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime (to name a few) are full of gems and binge-worthy watches, and we’re always looking for our next recommendation! This month, we’re highlighting several shows and movies with some cute romantic comedies, twisty thrillers, spinoffs of popular franchises and so much more! There are plenty of new shows and films to add to your watchlist this September, so we’re sharing our top picks for the month to save you from hours of scrolling through the library.

Rather venture out? We’ve also got a list of the best movie theatres to catch the latest films with your friends.

Jump To:
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January

What To Watch This September 2023

GAMERA -Rebirth- – Airs Thursday, 7 September on Netflix Hong Kong.

Those who are familiar with Kaiju (Japanese giant monster-related media – think Godzilla) will probably already be fans of Gamera, the iconic monster created back in the 1960s and which debuted in a series of films in Japan. It returns in Netflix’s latest animated series, facing off against enemy creatures across six episodes.

Watch the trailer here.

The Changeling – Airs Friday 8 September, on Apple TV+ Hong Kong

LaKeith Stanfield stars in Apple TV’s latest show, playing Apollo, a happily married man whose wife, Emma, vanishes without a trace one day. What follows is a strange odyssey through a version of New York City that Apollo didn’t even know existed.

Watch the trailer here.

How to Date Billy Walsh – Airs Friday, 8 September on Amazon Prime Hong Kong

Just in time for the back-to-school season, “How to Date Billy Walsh” is a cute young adult rom-com about childhood best friends Amelia and Archie as they navigate high school together, and Amelia falling for Billy, the American exchange student and new resident bad boy.

Burning Body – Airs Friday, 8 September on Netflix Hong Kong

Úrsula Corberó, most famous for her role as Tokyo in Netflix’s “Money Heist”, leads its newest Spanish crime-drama. When the charred body of Pedro, a police officer, is found inside a car in Barcelona, the investigation reveals a series of toxic relationships between Pedro, his partner Rosa, and her ex-boyfriend Albert.

Watch the trailer here.

Love at First Sight – Airs Friday, 15 September on Netflix Hong Kong

Netflix’s latest rom-com plot is a classic one – Hadley (Haley Lu Richardson) and Oliver (Ben Hardy) meet on a flight to London and the sparks fly, but they lose each other when they are going through customs. Will destiny play a hand in reuniting them? You’ll have to watch to find out.

Watch the trailer here.

The Super Models – Airs Wednesday, 20 September on Apple TV+ in Hong Kong

Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington – they are some of the most iconic women in the fashion industry and are prime examples of the word Supermodel. This Apple TV+ documentary charts their careers, from their start in 1980s New York to how they have revolutionised fashion in the last few decades.

Watch the trailer here.

Spy Kids: Armageddon – Airs Friday, 22 September on Netflix Hong Kong

For those who are fans of the original “Spy Kids” films, the series returns with a fresh new reboot starring Gina Rodriguez and Zachary Levi. They play super spy parents who team up with their children to stop a powerful game developer from unleashing a computer virus that would give him complete control over all technology.

Watch the trailer here.

Still Up – Airs Friday, 22 September on Apple TV+ Hong Kong

As the name suggests, “Still Up” is a romantic comedy series for insomniacs. The show follows Danny (Craig Roberts) and Lisa (Antonia Thomas) as they try to work through their sleeplessness and their feelings for one another.

Watch the trailer here.

Gen V – Airs Friday, 29 September on Amazon Prime Hong Kong

Those who are familiar with the raunchy world of “The Boys” will want to tune in for the series spin-off show, following college-aged superheroes (or “Supes”) as they navigate life at Godolkin University School of Crimefighting, run by Vought International. Let the chaos ensue.

Watch the trailer here.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In September

The Wheel of Time: Season 2 – Airs Friday, 1 September on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
The Rosamund Pike-led high fantasy returns this month and while plot details are scarce, the second season is based on books two and three of Robert Jordan’s epic book series.
I Am Groot: Season 2 – Airs Wednesday, 6 September on Disney+ Hong Kong
Baby Groot is back with another season of mischievous adventures. Groot finds himself exploring the universe and beyond aboard the Guardians’ spaceship and is sure to get into plenty of (adorable) trouble.
The Morning Show: Season 3 – Airs Wednesday, 13 September on Apple TV+ Hong Kong
Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon are going head to head again in a third series of their hit show, which showcases the cutthroat world of early morning television.
Sex Education: Season 4 – Airs Tuesday, 21 September on Netflix Hong Kong
Sex Education is one of Netflix’s most beloved series but season 4 is sadly going to be its last. We say a fond farewell to Moordale College as Otis and Eric face a new frontier – at Cavendish Sixth Form College.

Where To Watch Hong Kong Film Legend Tony Leung’s Features

In the Mood for Love (2000) — On Disney+
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021) — On Disney+
Infernal Affairs (2002) — On Netflix Hong Kong
2046 (2004) — On Disney+
Days of Being Wild (1990) — On Apple TV
The Grandmaster (2013) — On Disney+
And in cinemas, A City of Sadness – 4K Digital Restored Version

What To Watch This August 2023

The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart

Now airing on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Starring Sigourney Weaver, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart is a decade-spanning story about Alice, who is sent to live with her grandmother on a flower farm after her parents die in a mysterious fire, and the secrets that subsequently emerge about her family.

Watch the trailer here.

Strange Planet

Now airing on Apple TV Hong Kong
You may have seen Nathan Pyle’s charming web-based comic about aliens across the Internet at some point, but now you can also watch it as a series on Apple TV. This is the streamer’s fifth original animated show and is developed by Dan Harmon, who is most well-known for Rick and Morty.

Watch the trailer here.

Heart of Stone

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Gal Gadot is back for another Netflix summer blockbuster Heart of Stone. She plays Rachel Stone, an intelligence agent tasked with protecting a mysterious asset called “The Heart” and keeping it from falling into enemy hands. Looks like Gadot’s action streak isn’t slowing down any time soon.

Watch the trailer here.

Red, White and Royal Blue

Now airing on Amazon Prime in Hong Kong
Based on Casey McQuiston’s young adult bestseller, Red, White and Royal Blue, follows Alex Claremont-Diaz, son of the United States President (played by Uma Thurman) and his rivalry with the British royal family’s Prince Harry. What ensues is a classic hate-turns-into-love story between the two young men, as their reluctant friendship turns into something more.

Watch the trailer here.

Shelter

Now airing on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Prolific thriller writer, Harlan Coben, returns with another nail-biting mystery this summer. Shelter is the story of Mickey Bolitar and his move to Kasselton, New Jersey, after the sudden death of his father. Mickey finds himself caught up in the disappearance of a new student at his school, leading to the discovery of shocking secrets within their community.

Watch the trailer here.

Ahsoka

Now airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
Rosario Dawson reprises her role as Ahsoka Tano from The Mandalorian, this time getting her own spin-off series in the ever-expanding Star Wars universe. The titular Jedi Warrior (and Anakin Skywalker’s apprentice!) investigates an emerging threat against the galaxy in this eight-part series.

Watch the trailer here.

Who Is Erin Carter?

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Who Is Erin Carter? is a female-led thriller series about a British teacher in Spain, who gets embroiled in a supermarket robbery. But Erin, who seems like a mild-manner mum and wife on the outside, is actually not who she says she is. How far will she go to keep her true identity a secret? We’ll have to watch to find out.

Watch the trailer here.

You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Adam Sandler and his family star in this coming-of-age story, which follows Stacy Friedman (played by Sandler’s daughter, Sunny), a girl who is determined to have the best Bat Mitzvah, ever. But sky-high expectations, a popular boy and growing pains threaten to throw a wrench into her friendships, family and most important of all, the perfect party.

One Piece

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Netflix’s highly anticipated live-action version of the iconic manga/anime series hits the platform at the end of the month. Protagonist Monkey D. Luffy, a pirate boy who accidentally eats a Devil Fruit and gains the properties of rubber, explores the world in search of the ultimate treasure called “One Piece”, which will allow him to become the next pirate king.

Watch the trailer here.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In August

Heartstopper: Season 2 – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
The highly anticipated British young adult series is back for a second series as we continue to follow the budding romance between Nick and Charlie.
The Lincoln Lawyer: Season 2 – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Mickey Haller and his iconic Lincoln Town car return for another season of this Netflix courtroom drama.
Only Murders in the Building: Season 3 –Now airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
The third series of Selena Gomez, Steve Martin and Martin Short’s crime comedy gets even more star-studded with the addition of Meryl Streep and Paul Rudd.

What To Watch This July 2023

WHAM!

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
WHAM! was undoubtedly one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s. In this Netflix documentary, find out how George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, two teenagers in 1982, set out to conquer the world and did it in just four years with their music, culminating in their very last gig at Wembley Stadium.

Watch the trailer here.

Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire

Now airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
This 10-episode animated sci-fi anthology presents a futuristic vision of Africa, drawing from the continent’s rich histories and cultures to weave a tapestry of fascinating stories. This is a showcase of a new generation of animators and is sure to be a feast for the eyes.

Watch the trailer here.

The Horror of Dolores Roach

Now airing on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Based off of the hit podcast of the same name, “The Horror of Dolores Roach” is being called a modern-day Sweeney Todd-inspired tale that is both horror-filled and funny. The show follows Dolores, recently released from jail after 16 years, and her return to gentrified Washington Heights with nothing but $200 and the clothes on her back.

Watch the trailer here.

The Out-Laws

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Pierce Brosnan leads this comedy action film about a strait-laced bank manager set to get married until his bank is held up by the infamous Ghost Bandits. Turns out, his future in-laws are the ones doing the robbing.

Watch the trailer here.

The Deepest Breath

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
This documentary about Italian freediver Alessia Zecchini premiered at Sundance to rave reviews. We follow Zecchini, as she trains with safety diver Stephan Kennan, in an attempt to make history and break a world record by going as far as she can underwater with no scuba gear.

Watch the trailer here.

Full Circle

Now airing on Max Hong Kong
Claire Danes, Dennis Quaid and Zazie Beetz lead this miniseries about a botched kidnapping that uncovers long-held secrets for a series of interconnected characters in New York City. From director Steven Soderbergh, this promises to be a show full of intrigue and drama.

Watch the trailer here.

Burn the House Down

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
If you are a fan of Moyashi Fujisawa’s manga “Burn the House Down”, you’ll want to tune in for Netflix’s live-action adaptation. The series, like the manga, follows Anzu Murata, a young woman who becomes the housekeeper of the wealthy Mitarai family in order to take back the life that is owed her.

Watch the trailer here.

Bird Box Barcelona

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
A Spanish spin-off of 2018’s Bird Box, this is the first of a series of sequels in the burgeoning franchise. In “Bird Box Barcelona”, Sebastian must navigate his own perilous journey through the dangerous streets of Barcelona, while encountering other survivors who may or may not be trusted.

Watch the trailer here.

They Cloned Tyrone

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
This upcoming comedy sci-fi mystery movie stars Jamie Foxx, John Boyega and Teyonah Parris as an unlikely trio that is sucked into a rabbit hole of strange events and eventually uncovers a government conspiracy.

Watch the trailer here.

The Beanie Bubble

Now airing on Apple TV+ Hong Kong
Do you remember the early 2000s beanie baby craze? Relive that nostalgia with “The Beanie Bubble”, which follows the rise of the stuffed toy brand and investigates why everyone treated Beanie Babies as if they were made of gold.

Watch the trailer here.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In July

The Lincoln Lawyer: Season 2, Volume 1 – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Mickey Haller is back for another wild ride with Season 2 of “The Lincoln Lawyer”. The first part of the series is out in July, with the second part set to release on 3 August.
The Afterparty: Season 2 – Now airing on Apple TV+ Hong Kong
Detective Danner is back in Season 2 of “The Afterparty”, with a fresh new mystery to solve — some familiar faces return as well as some new ones for her to interrogate.
The Summer I Turned Pretty: Season 2 – Now airing onon Amazon Prime Hong Kong
The teen coming-of-age story returns with a second season where the love triangle between Belly, Conrad and Jeremiah is set to get more complicated.
Foundation: Season 2 – Now airing on on Apple TV+ Hong Kong
Based on the Isaac Asimov book series of the same name, season 2 returns us to the world of the Galactic Empire and the band of exiles trying to defy it.
The Witcher: Season 3, Volume 2 – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Say goodbye to Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia with the second half of “The Witcher”, season 3. This will certainly whet your appetite for Season 4 and the arrival of Liam Hemsworth taking over the role.
Good Omens: Season Two – Now airing on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Neil Gaiman’s fantasy series about angel Aziraphale and demon Crowley returns for a second season.

What To Watch This June 2023

Deadloch

Now airing on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
The town of Deadloch is getting ready for its annual Winter Festival when the body of a local man washes up on the beach. Enter Eddie Redcliffe, an out-of-town big-town detective sent to investigate the death. This dark Australian comedy series is a refreshing whodunnit that will sure to have you in stitches.

Watch the trailer here.

Arnold

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Hot on the heels of his latest Netflix show “FUBAR”, Arnold Schwarzenegger is back, this time with an intimate documentary series about his life. Follow Schwarzenegger’s incredible life from his bodybuilding days to his time in Hollywood up to becoming a Governor of California.

Watch the trailer here.

The Crowded Room

Now airing on Apple TV+ in Hong Kong
Want to binge a nail-biting psychological thriller series this month? “The Crowded Room” sees a young man (Tom Holland) arrested for a shocking crime and an unlikely investigator (Amanda Seyfried) who must dig to find out the truth before the real criminal strikes again.

Watch the trailer here.

Amy Schumer: Emergency Contact

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
The Queen of raunchy comedy is back with another stand-up special. Amy Schumer talks all things marriage and family, including lasering her face, postpartum sex, her baby-naming disaster and even chewable Viagra, all in her trademark candid style.

Watch a clip here.

Extraction 2

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
In the sequel film to one of 2020’s most action-packed flicks, Chris Hemsworth returns as Tyler Rake, a former Australian special forces agent with grey morals. “Extraction 2” follows Rake as he tries to save the family of a Georgian gangster, diving back into the underworld he barely survived the first time around.

Watch the trailer here.

Secret Invasion

Now airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
It wouldn’t be summer without a new Marvel production to watch. This Disney+ limited series follows Nick Fury, who learns about a secret invasion of Earth by a group of shapeshifting Skrulls (you might remember them from Captain Marvel). He teams up with his trusty right-hand woman Maria Hill, as well as some new (and very star-studded) teammates, to investigate the threat.

Watch the trailer here.

World’s Best

Now airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
If you’re looking for a teen musical to watch, check out “World’s Best”. 12-year-old mathematics genius Prem Patel finds out that his deceased father was a famous rapper. He quickly becomes obsessed with following in his father’s footsteps to pursue a career as a rap superstar.

Watch the trailer here.

The Perfect Find

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Gabrielle Union stars in this romantic comedy film about a high-powered Fashion Editor whose career comeback is threatened when she kisses a new co-worker at a party… who turns out to be her boss’ son. Tune in to watch sparks fly, secret romances and more.

Watch the trailer here.

Run Rabbit Run

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Fresh from her run “Succession”, Sarah Snook returns to our screens in this Netflix thriller about a fertility doctor who has to confront a ghost from her past when her daughter starts exhibiting strange behaviour.

Watch the trailer here.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In June

Never Have I Ever: Final Season – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
It’s time to say goodbye to Mindy Kaling’s charming teen show, “Never Have I Ever”. The series’ fourth will be its final one, as we follow Devi’s hilarious antics one last time before she graduates high school.
Black Mirror: Season 6 – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Charlie Brooker’s “Black Mirror” returns this month after a long hiatus with a new anthology of terrifying stories. Chock full of amazing actors and its horrific visions of the future are sure to have you glued to the screen.
And Just Like That…: Season 2 – Now airing on Max Hong Kong
“The Sex and the City” gang is back and this time, Carrie has to re-learn how to navigate life after losing her husband, Mr. Big, in season one. Don’t worry, she’s not alone for long because her ex-fiancé Aiden comes back into her life for what is sure to be a season of drama and glamour.
The Witcher: Season 3 Volume 1 – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
The Witcher returns with its third season which will also be leading man Henry Cavill’s last hurrah as the titular character — before passing the torch to Liam Hemsworth. The season will be split into two, with the first part released in June and the second in July.

Read More: The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong

What To Watch This May 2023

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story

Now Airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Bridgerton fans, rejoice! As we await Season 3, Netflix has released a prequel miniseries that follows the (fictional!) Queen Charlotte’s younger years and her rise to power, as well as her passionate relationship with King George of England.

Watch the trailer here.

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures

Now Airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
The newest original animated addition to the Star Wars world, Young Jedi Adventures is set in the High Republic era and follows a set of Younglings as they start on the path to becoming a Jedi. The series is technically aimed at kid but Star Wars fans are sure to get something out of it too.

Watch the trailer here.

Read More: Must-See Hong Kong Art Exhibitions

Hannah Gadsby: Something Special

Airs Tuesday, 9 May on Netflix Hong Kong
Australian comedian Hannah Gadsby is back with another hour of hilarious stand-up. Filmed at the Sydney Opera House, Gadsby talks about a multitude of topics, ranging from her own wedding to a weird encounter with a bunny.

Watch the trailer here.

Queen Cleopatra

Airs Wednesday, 10 May on Netflix Hong Kong.
The latest instalment of Jada Pinkett-Smith’s documentary series African Queens, this second part of the series follows Queen Cleopatra, one of history’s most famous, powerful and misunderstood women. This series sets out to shed some light on her life, her loves and her greatest weapon: her intellect.

Watch the trailer here.

The Mother

Airs Friday, 12 May on Netflix Hong Kong
Starring Jennifer Lopez, this new Netflix original film showcases the singer-actress’s epic action skills. J-Lo plays the titular mother, a deadly female assassin who has to come out of hiding to protect the daughter she left behind years ago. Bad guys beware.

Watch the trailer here.

Black Knight

Airs Friday, 12 May on Netflix Hong Kong
Set in a dystopian future where the world is devastated by air pollution, the survival of humanity depends on a group of special deliverymen called the Black Knights, as they navigate through the harsh landscape via unconventional methods.

Watch the trailer here.

Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie

Airs Friday, 12 May on Apple TV+ Hong Kong
Incurable optimist Michael J. Fox was an acting sensation in the 1980s, starring in some of the most beloved movies of the era. At the height of his fame, he was sadly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and has been living with it ever since. Hear his story in his own words in this new Apple TV+ documentary.

Watch the trailer here.

Air

Airs Friday, 12 May on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Acting-writing-directing duo Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s latest film follows the (not so smooth) journey of Nike’s iconic Air Jordan shoes and the company’s struggling basketball shoe division as it faces competition against Adidas and Converse.

Watch the trailer here.

American Born Chinese

Airs Wednesday, 24 May on Disney+ Hong Kong
Coming off of the success of “Everything Everywhere All At Once”, “American Born Chinese” reunites Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan and Stephanie Hsu in a story about a struggling American-Chinese high schooler who meets a Taiwanese exchange school at his school and gets into hijinks involving gods of Chinese mythology.

Watch the trailer here.

FUBAR

Airs Thursday, 25 May on Netflix Hong Kong
Arnold Schwarzenegger is back. In this Netflix series, he plays a CIA operative on the edge of retirement, who is forced back into the field after he discovers a family secret – and it turns out his own daughter, who is also a CIA agent, is his new partner.

Watch the trailer here.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In May

Queer Eye: Season 7 –Airs Friday, 12 May on Netflix Hong Kong
The beloved Fab Five are back with another series of heart-warming transformations for their lucky heroes, but this time, they’re taking their talents to New Orleans.
Selling Sunset: Season 6 –Airs Friday, 19 May on Netflix Hong Kong
There is no shortage of drama with the Oppenheim Group realtors and season 6 promises to shake things up with two new agents on the scene.
I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson: Season 3 – Airs Tuesday 30 May on Netflix Hong Kong
American comedian Tim Robinson is back with the third season of his surreal sketch comedy show after a two-year delay.

What To Watch This April 2023

War Sailor

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Two merchant sailors are stuck in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean when World War II breaks out, leaving the unarmed civilians on the front lines of a war they never asked to join. What follows is a gripping sequence of life and death, where the two men struggle to survive and make it home.

Watch the trailer here.

Beef

Airs Thursday, 6 April on Netflix Hong Kong
Starring Ali Wong and Steven Yeun in lead roles, Beef is a comedy series where two chaotic individuals come head-to-head in a road rage. And the aftermath? Only more chaos, and probably an unlikely friendship.

Watch the trailer here.

Transatlantic

Airs Friday, 7 April on Netflix Hong Kong
A period drama inspired by the true story of Varian Fry, Mary Jayne Gold and the Emergency Rescue Committee, all of whom risked their lives to help more than 2000 refugees escape occupied France on to the US during World War 2.

Watch the trailer here.

Hunger

Airs Saturday, 8 April on Netflix Hong Kong
A woman running her family’s noodle restaurant pushes herself to the limit after accepting an invitation to train under an infamous and ruthless chef, all to make it in the fine dining industry. If you watched The Menu on Disney+, you’ll find this movie to your liking, especially with the dark turns.

Watch the trailer here.

Rennervations

Airs Wednesday, 12 April on Disney+ Hong Kong
Follow Jeremy Renner as he travels the world helping communities by working with expert builders to transform large, decommissioned government vehicles into everything from mobile dance studios to mobile water treatment facilities and more.

Watch the trailer here.

Longest Third Date

Airs Tuesday, 18 April on Netflix Hong Kong
Dating during the pandemic was no easy feat, but this couple who met on Hinge took it a step further when they went to Costa Rica for their third date and got stuck as the world shut down.

Watch the trailer here.

Chimp Empire

Airs Wednesday, 19 April on Netflix Hong Kong
From the co-director of My Octopus Teacher comes a fascinating exploration of another intelligent species, chimpanzees. It’s no surprise that they mimic plenty of human behaviour, but did you know they too have their own complex social politics, family dynamics and dangerous territory disputes? Tune in to this nature documentary this Earth Day, narrated by Mahershala Ali.

Watch the trailer here.

Secrets of the Elephants

Airs Saturday, 22 April on Disney+ Hong Kong
There’s more to these majestic mammals than meets the eye. This Earth Day release chronicles elephants’ journey from birth to death (especially due to poaching), and everything in between, especially a deep dive into their intelligence, emotions and behaviours.

Watch the trailer here.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In April

Indian Matchmaking: Season 3 – Airs Friday, 21 April on Netflix Hong Kong
Sima Taparia is back, this time taking her matchmaking skills to the global level across London, New Delhi, Miami, New York and beyond.
Workin Moms: Season 7 – Airs Wednesday, 26 April on Netflix Hong Kong
The final season of the Canadian comedy series.
Sweet Tooth: Season 2 – Airs Thursday, 27 April on Netflix Hong Kong
Gus and his fellow hybrids are held captive by the Last Men to find a cure for the Sick.

What To Watch This March 2023

Monique Olivier: Accessory to Evil

Airs Thursday, 2 March on Netflix Hong Kong
A notorious French serial killer, Michel Fourniret carried out heinous crimes from 1987 to 2003 — but this docuseries isn’t about him. Michel died in prison in 2021, and his wife, Monique Olivier has been serving a life sentence. Now, a new wave of investigations questions whether Monique was a pawn or participant in her husband’s crimes.

Watch trailer here.

Daisy Jones & The Six

Airs Friday, 3 March on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Based on the novel of the same name, Daisy Jones & the Six follows the story of a 1970s band fronted by two feuding, charismatic lead singers, Daisy Jones and Billy Dunne. After a sold-out show at Chicago’s Soldier Field, they called it quits; now, decades later, the band members agree on an ultimate confrontation.

Watch trailer here.

In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal

Airs Friday, 3 March on Netflix Hong Kong
Four not-so-ordinary Korean leaders and chilling stories of how each one claimed to be prophets — building numerous churches, holding prayers and delivering fake promises, all the while targetting the vulnerable. This docuseries explores how these con artists used power to manipulate men and women, but be warned, there will be some distressing content.

Watch trailer here.

Finding Michael

Airs Friday, 3 March on Disney+ Hong Kong
In 1999, Michael Matthews became the youngest Briton ever to reach the summit of Mount Everest at just 22 years old but three hours later, he completely vanished and his body was never recovered. More than 20 years later, Michael’s brother, Spencer Matthews, receives a call that they may have found Michael’s body. Then the question arises, do they risk another life to bring Michael home? This is no question for Spencer who embarks on an extraordinary journey (alongside Nirmal Purja from 14 Peaks) on grief, hope and adventure.

Watch trailer here.

MH370: The Plane That Disappeared

Airs Wednesday, 8 March on Netflix Hong Kong
Perhaps one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of our time is the disappearance of Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. Nine years later, the thought of an entire flight gone completely missing still sends shivers. Set across seven countries, this gripping documentary series from RAW uses powerful archives to reconstruct the night of the disappearance, along with three of the most contentious theories about the plane’s disappearance.

Watch trailer here.

Luther: The Fallen Sun

Airs Friday, 10 March on Netflix Hong Kong
Based on the TV series (also starring Idris Elba), this reimagined film adaption follows a detective behind bars and his frustration in not being able to do anything about a gruesome serial killer terrorising London. He breaks out of prison to finish the job by any means necessary.

Watch trailer here.

Outlast

Airs Friday, 10 March on Netflix Hong Kong
16 lone wolves take part in this reality competition set in Alaska (the land of ice, bears and eagles), where they must outlast each other in the wilderness in an attempt to win one million dollars. But there’s a catch, they must work in teams in order to win, which is what they perhaps will find the most difficult.

Watch trailer here.

Swarm

Airs Friday, 17 March on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, Swarm tells the story of Dre, who takes fandom to a dark and twisted level. This horror thriller television series promises plenty of dark turns and how obsession — especially celebrity worship — is not to be taken lightly.

Watch trailer here.

Unstable

Airs Thursday, 30 March on Netflix Hong Kong
Ellis Dragon (played by Rob Lowe) is a universally admired, eccentric biotech entrepreneur working to make the world a better place, or well, at least he’s trying to. His son Jackson Dragon (John Owen Lowe) is the complete opposite of his father but his qualities may just be what Ellis needs to save his company from disaster.

Watch trailer here.

Murder Mystery 2

Airs Friday, 31 March on Netflix Hong Kong
Rising to fame and success by the whodunnit murder case on a cruise they previously embarked on, the second installation follows Nick (Adam Sandler) and Audrey Spitz (Jennifer Aniston) as they launch their own private detective company. This time round, they land at the centre of an international investigation when a friend is abducted.

Watch trailer here.

International Women’s Day Specials To Watch

The Breadwinner – Airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Living under Taliban rule in Afghanistan, Parvana disguises herself as a boy to rescue her father from jail, braving danger around her.
Hidden Figures – Airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
A true story of how three female African-American mathematicians played a pivotal role in astronaut John Glenn’s launch into orbit.
Little Women – Airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Explore the bond of sisterhood as a writer paves her way to success, through hardships, love and much more.
Queen of Katwe – Airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
Based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, who took up chess aged nine despite not being in school and went on to compete in international tournaments.
Gangubai Kathiawadi – Airing on Netflix Hong Kong
After being duped and sold to a brothel, a young woman takes control of the world she was once a pawn in. Based on the true story of Gangubai Kathiawadi,
The Trader – Airing on Netflix Hong Kong
A travelling trader provides a window into rural life in the Republic of Georgia, where potatoes are currency and ambition is crushed by poverty.
Double XL – Airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Relentlessly shamed for their weight, two women head to London to prove that the size of their dreams is the only one that matters.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In March

The Mandalorian: Season 3 – Airs Wednesday, 1 March on Disney+ Hong Kong
Pedro Pascal travels to Mandalore to redeem his past transgressions with his companion Grogu.
You: Season 4 Part 2 – Airs Thursday, 9 March on Netflix Hong Kong
The second half of the latest series digs deeper into Joe’s stalker with even more twists and turns.
Shadow and Bone: Season 2 – Airs Thursday, 16 March on Netflix Hong Kong
To stand a fighting chance against General Kirigan, Alina Starkov and Mal Oretsev rally their own powerful new allies and begin a continent-spanning journey to find two mythical creatures that will amplify her powers.

What To Watch This February 2023

Gunther’s Millions

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Gunther VI is worth $400 million USD, travels only on private planes, eats gold-flaked steaks for dinner and leads the most luxurious life. He is also a German Shephard. But his owner, Maurizio Mian built an empire on behalf of his canine boss, including glamorous real estate purchases, controversial social experiments, and one of the biggest tax fraud schemes of all time. Uncover the truth behind the world’s most richest pet in this four-part docuseries.

Watch trailer here.

Freeridge

Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
If you’ve been on streaming platforms lately, you’ll notice the trend of spin-offs. Same goes for “Freeridge”, a spin-off of American TV show “On My Block”. The coming-of-age comedy series follows sibling rivals Gloria and Ines and their friends Demi and Cameron who work to reverse a curse after a peculiar old box seems to bring misfortune — and more — into their lives.

Watch trailer here.

The Exchange

Airs Wednesday, 8 February on Netflix Hong Kong
Inspired by real events, “The Exchange” is based on how two women, Farida and Munira, set out to pioneer the cutthroat stock market of 1980s Kuwait — and disrupt its corrupt boys club along the way. The women-centric story is the next major Arabic-language Netflix original and this series is already considered to be a love letter to the empowering women who were pioneers of different industries during their time.

Watch trailer here.

Bill Russell: Legend

Airs Wednesday, 8 February on Netflix Hong Kong
On the court, Russell went on to lead each and every one of his basketball teams to championships. Off the court, Russell was a force in the fight for human rights — marching with Martin Luther King Jr. and speaking out against segregation. This two-part film tells the life of Bill Russell’s remarkable life and the legacy as an NBA superstar and civil rights icon.

Watch trailer here.

7 Toughest Days

Airs Wednesday, 8 February on Disney+ Hong Kong
Dwayne Fields grew up around violent gangs and is a natural-born survivor who has stared death in the face his entire life. With his resilient nature, unmatched spirit and optimism, Dwayne ventures off to unexplored corners of the Earth to capture incredible moments on Earth only a few have witnessed.

Your Place or Mine

Airs Friday, 10 February on Netflix Hong Kong
Debbie (Reese Witherspoon) and Peter (Ashton Kutcher) are best friends and total opposites. When they decide to swap houses and lives, Peter looks after the son of his best friend while Debbie pursues a lifelong dream for one life-changing week. For those looking for feel-good 2000s nostalgia, add this movie to your list either for Valentine’s Day or whenever!

Watch trailer here.

African Queens: Njinga

Airs Wednesday, 15 February on Netflix Hong Kong
As the first installation of the series “African Queens” – which will explore the lives of prominent and iconic African Queens – the first season will uncover the life of Njinga, the complex, captivating and fearless 17th century warrior queen of Ndongo and Matamba (modern day Angola). The nation’s first female ruler, Njinga, earned a reputation for her blend of political and diplomatic skill with military prowess and became an icon of resistance.

Watch trailer here.

Unlocked

Airs Friday, 17 February on Netflix Hong Kong
Yes, we’re pretty much glued to our phone (you may even be reading this on yours!) and perhaps the realness of the crimes in “Unlocked” is what makes this movie all the more terrifying. Na-mi loses her phone on her way home, but is later approached by a man who returns it. Relieved at first, Na-mi doesn’t expect her world to turn upside down when her every move is tracked, including her hobbies, tastes, work life, finances and social network.

Watch trailer here.

Call Me Chihiro

Airs Thursday, 23 February on Netflix Hong Kong
An unapologetic former sex worker starts working at a bento stand in a small seaside town. With her charismatic personality, she soon becomes a favourite in the town and brings comfort to the lonely souls who come her way.

Watch trailer here.

Blow Your Mind

Airs Friday, 24 February on Disney+ Hong Kong
“Blow Your Mind” is the owner’s manual to the most complex machine ever developed: your brain. Through mind-melting real-life experiments, hidden camera stunts, try-at-home tests and top notch animations, this short and punchy documentary aims to uncover the storm of unconscious processes that make up the human mind.

Watch trailer here.

The Consultant

Airs Friday, 24 February on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
When a new consultant, Regus Patoff, is hired to improve the business of the app-based gaming company CompWare, employees experience new demands and challenges that put everything into question, including their lives. This upcoming workplace thriller sure looks promising, don’t forget to add to it your watchlist.

Watch trailer here.

Series Returning To Hong Kong Streaming Platforms In February

New Amsterdam: Season 3 and Season 4 – Now airing on Netflix Hong Kong
Dr. Max struggles to balance life as a single parent whilst other characters too battle with their own issues.
The Proud Family – Louder & Prouder: Season 2 – Now airing on Disney+ Hong Kong
Penny Proud spends time with her madcap family and her crew; based on “The Proud Family” series.
Harlem: Season 2 – Now airing on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Four ambitious best friends, Camille, Tye, Quinn, and Angie, navigate relationships and careers.
You: Season 4 Part 1 – Airs Thursday, 9 February on Netflix Hong Kong
New year, new country, new persona – and yet Joe can’t seem to shake off his past.
Carnival Row: Season 2 – Airs 17 February on Amazon Prime Hong Kong
Philo investigates a series of gruesome murders, while Vignette teams up with the Black Raven to plot payback.

New On Netflix Hong Kong In January 2023

Kaleidoscope

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Now Airing
The all-new compelling anthology series can be watched in any order and still make sense (as long as you don’t jump ahead to the finale!). “Kaleidoscope”, previously called “jigsaw,” unravels clue by clue leading to the big picture, or to one of the biggest heists shall we say. A team of masterful thieves attempt to crack a seemingly unbreakable vault for the biggest payday in history.

Watch the trailer here.

Copenhagen Cowboy

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Now Airing
This neon-drenched, Danish noir series follows Sui, who seeks justice and revenge after a lifetime of slavery. She traverses the ominous landscape of Copenhagen’s criminal netherworld where she comes face to face with her nemesis, Rakel. The two soon realise they’re not the only ones seeking vengeance, and there’s way more than what’s on the surface.

Watch the trailer here.

The Pale Blue Eye

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Friday, 6 January
Set in 1830 West Point, “The Pale Blue Eye” stars Christian Bale as Detective Augustus Landor when a cadet is found dead in cold blood. Tragedy soon turns to savagery when the morgue discovers the cadet’s heart had been skillfully carved from his chest. What follows are dark turns and twisted tales that Augustus wouldn’t have seen coming.

Watch the trailer here.

Dog Gone

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Friday, 13 January
A heart-warming tale (based on a true story) starring Rob Lowe, “Dog Gone” – as the name suggests – is indeed about a missing dog but it’s also much more. Tune in as this fractured family embark on a tough journey across the Appalachian trail to find their beloved lost dog as they mend their faults. Yes, you’ll probably need a box of tissues next to you for this one!

Watch the trailer here.

Read More: 10 Books We Can’t Wait To Read In 2023

Jung_E

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Friday, 20 January
A Korean sci-fi thriller gets us just a little amped up! From the director of Train to Busan comes another masterpiece – “Jung_E” is set at a time when Earth becomes uninhabitable due to climate change, but humans do what they do best even in outer space, going head to head in wars. Yun Jung-yi is a legendary mercenary and military strategist with countless victories to her name but threat arises when the opposition tries to clone her brain to create the ultimate war machine.

Watch the trailer here.

Shahmaran

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Friday, 20 January
If you like mythologies, or rather, alternative takes on classics, this one’s for you. “Shahmaran” is a Turkish fantasy drama chronicling around the ancient myth of the same name. Traditionally half snake and half woman, this series features Sahsu (the human version of Shahmaran) who seeks to find and confront her estranged grandfather. But soon, she finds herself in the midst of a legend.

Watch the trailer here.

You People

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Friday, 27 January
A good laugh never killed anybody! Add “You People” to your list for a fun, light watch. The movie stars and was co-written by Jonah Hill. Think along the lines of the movie “Why Him” but with Eddie Murphy as the headstrong father who needs convincing from Jonah Hill and all the cultural and generational differences added to the mix for extra laughs!

Watch the trailer here.

Cunk on Earth

Airs on Netflix Hong Kong: Tuesday, 31 January
You may remember Diane Morgan from “Death to 2020” and “Death to 2021”. Well, she’s back with another mockumentary about human advancements. Going by Philomena Cunk (previously on “Cunk on Shakespeare“), Diane comically looks through humankind’s journey from prehistory to the present day, from all the inventions, landmarks and more.

Watch the trailer here.

Series Returning To Netflix Hong Kong In January

The Way of the Househusband: Season 2 – Now Airing
The comical manga series returns for a second season with the ex-yakuza member handling more househusband duties!
Ginny and Georgia: Season 2 – Now Airing
Return of the drama series that asks the question, “How do you live with the knowledge that your mother is a murderer?”
The Walking Dead: Season 11 – Airs Friday, 6 January
Catch the season finale of one of the most watched shows!
Bake Squad: Season 2 – Airs Friday, 20 January
Four bakers selected by pastry chef Christina Tosi battle it out to see whose dessert will be chosen for a client’s extra special big day.

Read More: Team Sassy’s 2023 New Year’s Resolutions

Editor’s Note: “What To Watch In May: Netflix, Disney+ & More” was most recently updated in June 2023 by Team Sassy. Special thanks to Ruth Chan for her contribution.

The post What To Watch In September: Netflix, Disney+ & More appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

How To Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 In Hong Kong

Jess Ng — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 22:00:47 +0000

There’s more to Mid-Autumn Festival In Hong Kong than mooncakes and lanterns! Here’s everything you need to know about the history and popular cultural traditions associated with the Chinese Moon Festival.

Second only to Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival is one of Hong Kong’s most beloved holidays. Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 falls on Friday, 29 September (which means everyone will be out celebrating on Thursday night!). But what exactly is the festival all about? Many of us have come to expect to see mooncakes and spectacular lantern installations all over the city around this time of year, but do you know the history behind the festivities and how people celebrate?

Ahead, we unpack everything from traditions and customs to how and where to celebrate this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival in Hong Kong.

What Is The Mid-Autumn Festival About?

Also known as the Harvest Moon Festival, think of Mid-Autumn as the East-Asian counterpart to the western Harvest Festival — but bigger. We’re talking late-night family feasts (hence the subsequent public holiday), special cakes and even fire dragon dances. Like most Hong Kong holidays, Mid-Autumn has no fixed date. Instead, Mid-Autumn typically falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. Festivities traditionally began as a way to give thanks for the crop harvest. While Hong Kong is now highly urbanised, Mid-Autumn remains one of the city’s favourite festivals.

The History Of The Mid-Autumn Festival

With roots dating back to the early Tang Dynasty (618 to 907 AD), it’s clear that Mid-Autumn is well engrained in traditional culture. But how did it all begin? Though the exact origins of the holiday have long been debated, it’s generally agreed that Mid-Autumn started as an ode to the moon. In ancient times, it was observed that the moon’s cycle was closely linked to agricultural production. As such, Mid-Autumn became a time of giving thanks to the moon for the past year’s harvest, as well as ensuring good luck for the next year to come.

Of course, as to be expected in Hong Kong, Mid-Autumn Festival also has a familial element to it. Beyond thanksgiving, the full moon also stands as a cultural symbol for family reunions, the festival has become a time for estranged or far-away family members to gather and reunite.

Traditions & Customs Of The Mid-Autumn Festival

Mooncakes

One of the most popular ways of celebrating Mid-Autumn is by eating mooncakes! For the uninitiated, mooncakes are moreish pastries filled with a rich concoction of egg yolks and lotus seed paste. They are said to have originated from the Yuan dynasty (1271 to 1368AD) revolutionaries who apparently used the pastries to pass along secret messages. Nowadays, they’re typically eaten in small wedges, accompanied by Chinese tea, and come in a range of innovative new flavours that offer interesting twists to tradition.

Pumpkins, Watermelon And Wine

A lesser-known Mid-Autumn foodie custom — pumpkins! A common folkloric tale tells the story of a young girl who was able to cure her gravely ill parents of their sickness after feeding them a pumpkin. It has since become a tradition to eat pumpkins on the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival in order to bring good health. Osmanthus is another traditional Mid-Autumn food as it’s during this time of year that the flowers are in full bloom. Whether in cake or wine form, osmanthus is believed to bring you happiness (though we’re sure wine of any variety should do the trick here!).

Finally, the round shape of the watermelon, like the moon, makes it a symbol of family reunion. It’s therefore a requirement to eat watermelon during Mid-Autumn if you want to avoid any family feuds.

Lanterns

Another way that communities commemorate Mid-Autumn Festival is by lighting paper lanterns. Folklore dictates that Chang’e, the Goddess of the Moon, blesses her worshippers with beauty, so people light lanterns in her honour, hoping that she’ll see them clearly from the sky. Expect to see grand paper lantern displays springing up across Hong Kong in the weeks leading up to the festival, the biggest of which is always at Victoria Park in Causeway Bay.

Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance

Our favourite Mid-Autumn tradition has to be the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance. Legend has it that in the 19th century, on the eve of Mid-Autumn, the villagers of Tai Hang miraculously warded off an evil plague by staging a fire dance for three days and three nights. In memory of the occasion, locals have danced a 67-metre fire dragon made with 70,000 incense sticks through the streets of Tai Hang every year since (with the exception of the past three years due to COVID).

You can attend this public event in Tai Hang from Thursday, 28 and Friday, 29 September, 2023, between 8:15pm and 10:30pm, and from 8:15pm to 10pm on Saturday, 30 September, 2023.

How And Where To Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 In Hong Kong

Besides eating your fill of mooncakes, visiting lantern displays and watching dragon dances, here are some other ways to gather and celebrate the holiday:

Grab your lanterns and head to one of the many beaches in Hong Kong (perhaps a night BBQ?) or one of the urban parks (don’t forget to pack your picnic basket!).
Go moon-sighting at a rooftop bar or venture out on a night hike (do bring your torch and a fully charged phone!).
Celebrate with a feast, perhaps at one of our favourite dim sum restaurants?
Make your way to Tai O fishing village for a lantern extravaganza where the whole village comes to life.
Have your mooncakes and eat it too!

Editor’s Note: “A Beginner’s Guide To The Mid-Autumn Festival” was most recently updated in August 2023 by Team Sassy. With thanks to Jess Ng and Fashila Kanakka for their contribution.

The post How To Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival 2023 In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

Learn Chinese In Hong Kong: Mandarin & Cantonese Tutors And Courses

Team Sassy — Sun, 16 Jul 2023 22:00:45 +0000

Looking to learn Chinese or brush up on the language? Here are the best Mandarin and Cantonese tutors and courses in Hong Kong.

If your knowledge of Cantonese doesn’t extend far beyond “mm goi” and ordering your favourite dishes, or you’ve been missing out on Mandarin-speaking clients at work — it may be time to bite the bullet and learn Chinese. Whether you’re looking to pick up some survival phrases, brush up on what you’ve learned in the past, or add a new Chinese language skill to your resume, here’s where to find the best Mandarin and Cantonese tutors and courses in Hong Kong.

New Concept Mandarin – ‘Flipped-Learning’ approach to learning Mandarin and Cantonese

Master a Chinese language in no time with the help of New Concept Mandarin’s innovative “Flipped-Learning” approach which maximises your learning outside of the classroom with supplementary video tutorials, online materials and apps. Combined with guidance from professional teachers and textbooks specially created by the centre, you’re sure to make real progress. Learn one-on-one or in a small group, face-to-face or online, with any of the language courses structured to suit all proficiency levels and learning goals.

Private One-On-One Mandarin Or Cantonese Classes
When: Mondays to Saturdays, 8am to 9pm
How much: $400 to $600 per hour — enquire here
Small Group Classes
When: Mondays to Saturdays, 8am to 9pm
How much: $238 to $280 per hour per person — enquire here
IB Chinese Private Tutorial Classes
When: Mondays to Saturdays, 8am to 9pm
How much: $500 to $650 per hour – enquire here

New Concept Mandarin, 13/F, Fortune House, 61 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong, 2850 4332, www.newconceptmandarin.com

Mandarin Time School – Top-Ranked Mandarin School In Hong Kong

Having served over 200 companies and 3,000+ students in Hong Kong, Mandarin Time School boasts the biggest full-time Mandarin teaching team in the city, with all tutors here holding a master’s degree in teaching Chinese as a foreign language. Group classes are capped at six students for optimal learning and the experienced staff use a combination of digital multimedia and AI-empowered exercises developed in-house, as well as in-person classes. What’s more, the school’s three-in-one curriculum covers not only HSK preparation, but also business Chinese, and practical conversational Chinese.

Part-time Evening Group Class
When: One weekday evening, 7pm to 8:30pm
How much: $8,800 for 16 weeks — enrol here
Intensive/ Semi-Intensive Group Class
When: Monday to Thursday, 10:30am to 12pm/ Saturday, 1:30pm to 4:45pm
How much: $8,800 for four weeks — enrol here
In-Person Private Class (Business Chinese, Conversational Chinese, Comprehensive Chinese, HSK Preparation And More)
When: Flexible
Where: Flexible
How much: From $450 per lesson — enrol here

Mandarin Time School (Central Campus), 14/F, World Trust Tower, 50 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong, 6153 7108, www.mandarintimeschool.com

Linguabox – Online learning platform for one-on-one Mandarin Tutoring

Online Mandarin learning platform Linguabox provides tailored classes taught by experienced native Chinese teachers, designed to improve your oral communication skills and really train students to use correct pronunciation, intonation, vocabulary, grammar and writing. Whether you’re hoping to reach fluency or take on the HSK exam, flexibility is at the heart of Linguabox. Students can sign up for smaller packages at an affordable price rather than committing to a full year of classes. Sign up for a free one-on-one trial class today!

Mandarin Conversation And Speaking Classes
When: Flexible
How much: $1,248 for 10 classes, $2,368 for 20 classes, $3,368 for 30 classes – enrol here
Tailored Mandarin Tutoring Courses
When: Enquire here for more details
How much: Enquire here for more details

Use the code SASSY to receive a free class upon purchasing a package. Offer valid until Monday, 1 July, 2024.

Linguabox, WhatsApp: 9685 8939, Facebook: Linguabox Group, Instagram: @linguaboxgroup, www.linguaboxgroup.com

Hong Kong Institute of Languages – Small classes taught by native instructors

Established in 1985, the privately owned Hong Kong Institute of Languages offers interactive Chinese classes with a maximum class size of seven, all taught by qualified native instructors. Besides general courses catering to varying levels of Cantonese or Mandarin proficiency, it also offers crash courses, business courses, as well as reading and writing courses.

Hong Kong Institute of Languages, 6/F, Wellington Plaza, 56-58 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2877 6160, www.hklanguages.com

Hong Kong Language Learning Centre – Flexible courses for Cantonese, Mandarin and HSK preparation

Offering flexible daytime and evening courses for Cantonese, Mandarin and HSK preparation, HKLLC ensures that all teachers undergo training programmes before being assigned to conduct classes. In-house training programmes are also available for companies looking to enhance their employees’ language abilities.

Hong Kong Language Learning Centre, 16/F, Toi Shan Centre, 128 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2385 5331, WhatsApp: 6494 9331, hkllc.com

Hong Kong Language School – Half-day, full-day and remote Chinese classes

This language school specialises in Mandarin and Cantonese learning programmes for both locals and expats, offering a range of courses and covering all levels of language proficiency. Whether you prefer learning one-on-one, in a group or are looking for corporate training, HKLS will have something to suit your needs and schedule, offering half-day, full-day and remote courses.

Hong Kong Language School, Room 1701-2, 17/F, Tung Chiu Commercial Centre, 193 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 3622 2558, hkls.com.hk

Hong Kong Pro Language School – Face-to-face and online Mandarin and Cantonese courses

Hong Kong Pro Language School specialises in providing both face-to-face and online Mandarin and Cantonese courses for individuals of all language proficiencies, as well as local SMEs and multinational companies. Using an interactive and student-centred approach to teaching, its courses are designed to help you build up a strong foundation in Chinese and equip you to use the language in real-life situations.

Hong Kong Pro Language School, 2/F, Dah Sing Life Building, 99-105 Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2287 5057, www.hkpls.com.hk

International Language Centre – Professional language school offering private, group and corporate training

Founded in 2006, this Hong Kong-based professional language school offers a full range of language learning programmes. Its clients include the likes of HSBC, H&M, Cathay Pacific, MTR Corporation and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, to name a few. The centre offers a range of group and private lessons for both Mandarin and Cantonese, taught by qualified and experienced teachers.

International Language Centre, 21/F, CMA Building, 64 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong, 9518 2994, www.international-lan.com

More Places To Learn Cantonese And Mandarin In Hong Kong

Yale-China Chinese Language Centre, CUHK – University and Continuing Education Programmes for language training in Cantonese and Mandarin, with online options. www.ycclc.cuhk.edu.hk
iMandarinChinese – Online language-learning school providing bespoke Mandarin and Cantonese courses and private classes. imandarinchinese.com
Q Language Centre – Central-based Mandarin and Cantonese classes for all levels. www.qlanguage.edu.hk
HKU SPACE – Offers introductory, intensive and advanced Cantonese and Mandarin courses for non-Chinese speakers. hkuspace.hku.hk

Editor’s Note: “Learn Chinese In Hong Kong: Mandarin & Cantonese Tutors And Courses” was most recently updated by Team Sassy in July 2023. With thanks to Rachel Au for her contribution.

The post Learn Chinese In Hong Kong: Mandarin & Cantonese Tutors And Courses appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

5 LGBTQ+ Hong Kong Visual Artists To Follow Now

Joy Lee — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:00:50 +0000

From photography to illustration and video art, we’ve rounded up five LGBTQ+ Hong Kong visual artists to follow this Pride Month.

Queer art includes a wide spectrum of styles and mediums that reflect the diversity of experiences in the LGBTQ+ community. With a rich history dating back to the late 1970s, queer art in Hong Kong has challenged norms of gender, sexuality, identity, and so much more. From photographers to video artists and illustrators, these local artists and creatives are ones to watch this Pride Month.

Kary Kwok

Photographer and art director Kary Kwok documented self-portraits and captured queer nightlife across Hong Kong and London in the 1980s and 1990s. Released for the first time since the 1990s, his photographs from Then/Now memorialise the vibrant, gender fluid representations of the time. Now he is moving the needle through his latest project, TA, a collaborative publication focusing on contemporary LGBTQIA+ and non-binary issues.

Kary Kwok, Instagram: @karyphoto

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Kaitlin Chan

Kaitlin Chan is a cartoonist and artist-curator making waves in the world of independent publishing through making zines and serialising her first graphic novel “Eric’s Sister”. While traversing multiple identities and communities, she connects people through sharing relatable moments of daily life with humour and honesty.

Kaitlin Chan, Instagram: @kaitlinmchan, www.kaitlinchan.com

Yau Ching

You can find the moving image work of scholar, poet, and video artist Yau Ching in M+ Hong Kong or Tate Library in London. One of the earliest members of Videotage, a Hong Kong-based new media organisation, she went on to create four feature films and ten experimental moving image works. “Ho Yuk” (aka “Let’s Love Hong Kong”) is one film to watch, in which nostalgic scenes of the Star Ferry and love hotels in Yau Ma Tei contrast broader forces of personal/public space and class. It’s also an exploration of themes central to Yau Ching’s work: gender & sexuality, difference & belonging, and history.

Yau Ching, www.yauching.com

Wong Ka Ying

Featured in Tai Kwun Contemporary’s 2022/2023 group exhibition “Myth Makers—Spectrosynthesis III”, artist-curator and writer Wong Ka Ying critically reflects on contemporary social and gender issues. She uses a wide range of mediums, including painting, collage, performance, and more. Her latest works “Keep Calm” and “Crazy Woman 瘋女人”, are kaleidoscopically colourful and invites her audience to reimagine themselves and their futures.

Wong Ka Ying, www.wongkaying.com

Read More: Must-See Hong Kong Art Exhibitions

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Oscar Chan Yik Long

Cinephiles will lose themselves in this artist’s paintings. Hong Kong-born artist Oscar Chan Yik Long brushes Chinese ink on canvas, creating captivating monochromatic paintings that express intimacy, personal memories and reflections seen also at “Myth Makers—Spectrosynthesis III”. In his recent series “Love+: Awakening” and “Random Diaries”, Chan poetically blends real and imagined scenes from movies by legendary Hong Kong directors Wong Kar-Wai and Stanley Kwan.

Oscar Chan Yik Long, Instagram: @oscarchanyiklong, www.oscarchan.com

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17 LGBTQ+ Shows To Watch On Netflix This Pride Month

Team Sassy — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 22:00:18 +0000

From classic TV picks to cult favourite series and more recent hits, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our favourite LGBTQI+ shows to watch on Netflix this Pride Month.

The entertainment industry has certainly come a long way in terms of representing LGBTQI+ individuals. We’re all for seeing more of their stories and experiences played out onscreen, and it’s about time for non-straight characters to take up more than a supporting role. Whether they make us laugh or cry, they instil complexity, strength and vulnerability into a show, making it all the more compelling and insightful. In celebration of Pride Month, we’ve spotlighted our favourite LGBTQI+ shows to binge on Netflix Hong Kong right now.

Read More: What To Watch This Month

Heartstopper

Adapted from the webcomic and graphic novel of the same name by Alice Oseman, British coming-of-age romcom Heartstopper tells the story of Charlie (Joe Locke), a gay schoolboy who falls in love with Nick (Kit Connor), the popular rugby player seated next to him in form class. The series received high acclaim for its representation of the LGBTQI+ community, including a transgender character played by a transgender actress! Set your reminders, season two is coming in August 2023.

XO, Kitty

Do you remember little Kitty Covey from “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before”? Well, she’s off to Seoul, travelling across the world for true love (yes, they grow up so fast!) and new discoveries. The show has already garnered a fierce fan following, and we’ll save the rest for you to binge and find out without any spoilers — there are plot twists in store!

Special

Special is nothing short of just that. The show centres around a young gay man with cerebral palsy who decides to come out of the closet and finally go after the life he wants. The show is based on the memoir “I’m Special: And Other Lies We Tell Ourselves” by actor, director, comedian and LGBTQ activist Ryan O’Connell, who also stars in, writes and executive produces the series.

Atypical

While the show centres around autism, we couldn’t help but tune in for Sam’s sister Casey (who’s also bisexual in real life) and her personal growth in the show. Atypical is a heartwarming show that still addresses the realness of complicated relationships and going after what you truly want.

Halston

Starring Ewan McGregor as the titular lead, Halston tells the untold story of the meteoric rise and subsequent fall of the first American celebrity fashion designer who shot to fame when he designed the pillbox hat Jacqueline Kennedy wore to her husband John F. Kennedy’s presidential inauguration.

Heartbreak High

A self-reboot of the 1994 series, teenage drama Heartbreak High isn’t just meant for the teens (is it ever?). The show doesn’t miss a note when it comes to quirky, unique characters that each have their own layer and sexual expression — it’s even been dubbed as the “ultra queer series”.

Eastsiders

Eastsiders follows on-and-off couple Thom (Van Hansis) and Cal (Kit Williamson) as they come to terms with their infidelity and substance abuse. The show also features RuPaul Drag Race star Willam, who received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor — marking the first time a drag queen has been nominated for an Emmy in an acting category.

Young Royals

This steamy Swedish teen drama is set at an elite boarding school where the Prince of Wilhelm of Sweden dives into a budding romance with a fellow student and all the drama that comes with it. Fans of Young Royals will be glad to hear that a third season is in the works.

Sex Education

Hailed as one of the most refreshing and unabashed (not to mention binge-able) coming-of-age teen shows out there, Sex Education is very much about, well, sex, but also has much more to offer than advice on the subject. By the end of its second season, the British comedy got really interesting, with nearly half of the main characters having exhibited some form of queerness.

Class

A Hindi official remake of Spanish show Elite, Class is set in a prestigious secondary school in Delhi and chronicles around three middle-class peers and their far wealthier classmates. The show spotlights numerous social issues, ranging from homophobia to casteism and income disparity in India.

Please Like Me

This Australian dramedy series, created and mostly written by Josh Thomas, touches on some sad and all-too-realistic issues that come with adulthood, tackling themes of mental illness, sexuality, family and relationships. Thomas also plays the main character, a 20-something-year-old who, after being dumped by his girlfriend, realises he is gay.

Queer Eye

We loved the OG Fab Five team from the 2003 series, but I think we can all agree that Netflix’s reboot of Queer Eye has taken the series to a whole new level. Moving beyond just making over straight men, Johnathan, Tan, Karamo, Antoni and Bobby expand their specialised skills to better the lives of a diverse range of people in the communities they visit. Serving both comedic and tear-jerking moments, what really makes this show special is the heart the team put into what they do.

RuPaul’s Drag Race

With 15 seasons and a number of successful spin-offs under its belt, RuPaul’s Drag Race has become a beloved cult favourite. The sickening reality competition show, which by the finale sees one of the charismatic contestants crowned America’s Next Drag Superstar, combines the best of “America’s Next Top Model”, “Lip Sync Battle”, “Project Runway” and more. What’s not to love?

The Ultimatum: Queer Love

If you watched the previous season, Marry or Move On, you need to add the Queer Love edition to your list. Five long-term queer couples are put to the ultimate test to either tie the knot or move on and if this isn’t saucy reality TV, we don’t know what is!

BONDING

This dark and quirky comedy series follows Tiff (Zoe Levin), a psychology student by day and dominatrix by night, as she recruits her gay best friend from high school, Pete, to be her assistant. Their sexual high school history adds a layer of complexity to the relationship, ultimately offering more than the typical GBF trope ever did. Through their new business relationship, they form a more meaningful bond and, in the process, discover new aspects of themselves.

Tales of the City

This continuation of the 1993 miniseries of the same name (based on a series of novels by Armistead Maupin) follows the intersecting lives of several different queer San Franciscans. Set a couple of decades ahead of the original, the 2019 reboot drama touches on contemporary issues such as HIV prevention and treatment and has a more inclusive cast, including actors of colour, trans and gender-nonconforming actors and actors with disabilities.

Grace and Frankie

Grace and Frankie’s lives are completely turned upside down when their husbands announce they are leaving them — for each other. The former rivals are then forced to live together and gradually grow closer as they come to grips with their new reality. The sitcom, in which Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin play the title roles, has become the longest-running Netflix original with seven seasons and 94 episodes.

Editor’s Note: “Our Favourite LGBTQ+ Shows To Watch On Netflix This Pride Month” was most recently updated by Team Sassy in June 2023.

The post 17 LGBTQ+ Shows To Watch On Netflix This Pride Month appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

15 LGBTQIA+ Books To Read This Pride Month

Team Sassy — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 22:00:14 +0000

Your essential Pride Month reading list, featuring the most anticipated LGBTQIA+ books of 2023, classic poetry collections, popular graphic novels and more…

Pride Month is a great jumping point when it comes to diving into these truly incredible, layered books and works. You know what they say, there’s no better time than the present — and in light of the legal and socioeconomic struggles for equality that members of the LGBTQIA+ community endure and the rights they (we!) fight for, why not pick up a few new reads from queer voices and help amplify books penned, drawn, collected and inspired by trans, non-binary, gay, lesbian, and asexual writers.

From classic poetry collections to graphic novels, memoirs, contemporary romances and more, here are 15 LGBTQIA+ books to add to your June TBR list.

Your Driver Is Waiting by Priya Guns

Genre: Dark comedy

Priya Gun’s gender-flipped adaptation of the iconic 1970’s film “Taxi Driver” offers a sharp social commentary on gig workers, racial discrimination and performative ally-ship. The debut novel is narrated by Damani, a fictional, queer Tamil ride-share driver who falls in love with Jolene, a seemingly five-star passenger. But just as their whirlwind romance intensifies, Jolene does something unforgivable, setting off a messy chain of events.

Available on Blackwell’s for $104.06

Young Mungo by Douglas Stuart

Genre: Coming-of-age Fiction

From the Booker Prize-winning author of “Shuggie Bain” comes this heart-pounding story of the perilous first love of two young men. Born under different stars, we have Mungo, a Protestant, and James, a Catholic, living in the hyper-masculine and violently sectarian bubble of Glasgow’s housing estates.

Available on Blackwell’s for $88.17

Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender

Genre: YA Fiction

“Felix Ever After” is a charmingly honest tale about a 17-year-old demiboy grappling with his first love, hampered by the fear that he is one marginalisation too many — black, queer, transgender — to get his happily ever after. Troubles escalate when a vengeful catfish trap lands him in a quasi-love triangle.

Available on Blackwell’s for $98.28

Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters

Genre: Fiction

Torrey Peters’ debut novel “Detransition, Baby” is a beautiful piece of literature that explores gender, parenthood, love and trans life. Tender and emotional (Peters said the novel was written like a soap opera), this book is groundbreaking by sheer publication, as it’s one of the first novels written by an out trans person to be published by a big-five publishing house and was also nominated for the 2021 Women’s Prize for Fiction, making Peters the first openly trans woman to be nominated for the award.

Available on Blackwell’s for $102.01

Sorry, Bro by Taleen Voskuni

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Nar, a bisexual Armenian-American woman rediscovers her roots and learns to embrace who she really is in this heartfelt queer rom-com. It all starts when she meets Erebuni, a cool and intriguing gal who helps Nar see the beauty of their shared culture. Could her new best friend be the girl of her dreams?

Available on Blackwell’s for $92.68

Ace: What Asexuality Reveals About Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex by Angela Chan

Genre: Nonfiction

This rare gem explores what it means to be asexual (the often overlooked ‘A’ in LGBTQIA) in a world that’s obsessed with sexual attraction. As an asexual person herself, journalist Angela Chen uses her own journey of self-discovery to educate readers on desire and identity, alongside interviews with a diverse range of other ace people (including non-gender-conforming aces, aces of colour and disabled aces).

Available on Amazon for $121.78

Fake Dates and Mooncakes by Sher Lee

Genre: YA Contemporary Romance

Think “Heartstopper” crossed with “Crazy Rich Asians”. This sweet romance follows an aspiring chef who starts fake-dating a charming and wealthy customer. Their worlds are sun and moon, but the attraction is undeniable and Theo proves to be a great distraction for Dylan who has his heart set on winning a mooncake-making contest in order to save his family business.

Available on Blackwell’s for $86.40

Black Girl, Call Home by Jasmine Manns

Genre: Poetry

From spoken word poet Jasmine Mans, this poetry collection explores race, feminism, and queer identity — almost pushing back against the often flat, limited, and often outright flagrant attempts at representing Black women to really showcase and consider these layered, multifaceted women for who they are.

Available on Blackwell’s for $119

We Are Everywhere by Matthew Riemer and Leighton Brown

Genre: Photography

While not quite a “read”, this substantial photography book from the creators and curators of the massively popular Instagram account LGBT History showcases a rich, sweeping archive of the Queer Liberation Movement. A beautifully crafted coffee table book to flip through again and again.

Available on Blackwell’s for $699.26

Stung with Love by Sappho

Genre: Poetry

What is a gay book list without the mother of lesbians herself — Ancient Greek poet Sappho! In fact, the word “lesbian” is derived from the name of the Greek island of Lesbos, where Sappho resided. Little remains of her writing, so this surviving text is really worth delving into for lyric poetry on love, longing and desire.

Available on Blackwell’s for $87.78

Read More: 10 Poetry Books To Read Now

The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth

Genre: Fiction

Author Emily M. Danforth’s debut novel, “The Miseducation of Cameron Post” is a coming-of-age story that follows a 12-year-old Montana girl who is sent to a conversion camp after her romantic relationship with another girl is discovered. You may be familiar with this story through its 2018 film adaptation that stars Chloë Grace Moretz. Even if you’ve given that a watch, don’t hesitate to pick up the original book.

Available on Blackwell’s for $103.39

We Have Always Been Here by Samra Habib

Genre: Memoir

A heavy piece about family and forgiveness, Pakistani Canadian writer and photographer Samra Habib pens this emotional memoir about growing up as a Muslim minority (Ahmadi Muslims are explicitly forbidden to call themselves Muslim under the Pakistani penal code) and queer in Pakistan and, later, Canada. A poignant exploration of faith, art, love, and queer sexuality.

Available on Blackwell’s for $91.02

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson

Genre: Semi-autobiographical

A semi-autobiographical coming-of-age story about a lesbian girl growing up in an English Pentecostal community, first published in 1985. One of the more closely studied books on this list (being included on both GCSE and A-Level reading lists in England and Wales), the novel also contains references to numerous other literary works, historical figures and aspects of popular culture.

Available on Blackwell’s for $96.51

Read More: The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong

The Transgender Issue: An Argument for Justice by Shon Faye

Genre: Nonfiction

A Sunday Times bestseller, this is a book clearly written by a journalist. Shon Faye put together this project over three years, with a good chunk of research and writing taking place during the pandemic. Emphasising transgender experiences, Faye touches on issues of social class, housing insecurity, police violence, sex work and liberation.

Available on Blackwell’s for $109.08

Heartstopper Volume 1 by Alice Oseman

Genre: Graphic novel

An ongoing webcomic started in September 2016, this beloved series focuses on two English boys — Charlie Spring and Nick Nelson — who meet and fall in love is truly heartwarming. Its popularity led to an equally lovely live-action television adaptation, that you can watch now on Netflix Hong Kong.

Available on Blackwell’s for $112.42

Read More: New On Netflix Hong Kong

Editor’s Note: “15 LGBTQIA+ Books To Read This Pride Month” was most recently updated in June 2023 by Nicole Moraleda. With thanks to Zona Hiranandani and Sakina Abidi for their contribution.

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Where To Learn Spanish In Hong Kong

Team Sassy — Mon, 15 May 2023 22:00:35 +0000

Looking to push past “por favor” and “gracias”? Read on to find out where you can learn Spanish in Hong Kong.

Whether it was bingeing “Money Heist” on Netflix, your love for tapas or still only being able to sing the “des-pa-cito” part of “Despacito”, we wouldn’t blame you for wanting to pick up this Romance language. Spanish also happens to be one of the top five most commonly spoken languages in the world so there’s a good chance it’ll come in handy one day! From language schools offering small group classes to private tutors for one-on-one lessons and intensive courses to prepare you for the DELE, here are some options for where to learn Spanish in Hong Kong.

The Spanish Academy, Wan Chai – Fun, interactive Spanish lessons to build confidence

The Spanish Academy welcomes students of all ages and levels, and offers a fun and friendly Spanish learning experience. The lessons here are highly interactive and are designed to quickly build your confidence up and get you to your desired level. Sign up now for your 30-minute free trial.

When: One lesson per week
How much: $3,800 for a 10-week course

The Spanish Academy, Suite 701, Keen Hung Building, 80 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 6899 5497, www.thespanishacademy.hk

The Spanish Cultural Association of Hong Kong, Causeway Bay/ Tsim Sha Tsui – Best for developing professional Spanish skills

This organisation is one of the biggest Spanish schools in the city, with a team of 14 certified teachers (including some that are also official DELE examiners). Spanish lessons for adults here reference the DELE/SIELE syllabus with a focus on practical workplace elements, making it perfect for those looking to add a certified Spanish level to their resume and use the language in a professional setting. The two-hour group lessons are held on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon on weekday evenings, making it easy to fit around your office hours.

When: Flexible
How much: $4,100 for the 22-hour course (two hours per class); $550 per hour (weekday private lessons); $600 per hour (weekend private lessons); from $350 for semi-private lessons

The Spanish Cultural Association of Hong Kong (Tsim Sha Tsui), 14/F, Eastern Flower Centre, 22-24 Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

The Spanish Cultural Association of Hong Kong (Causeway Bay), Unit 1707 Cameron Commercial Building, 458 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, 3611 5904, WhatsApp: 5134 9008, en.spanish.hk

Spanish Tutors Hong Kong, Central/ Tsim Sha Tsui – Private Spanish tutors for DELE preparation

This is a great option if you’re in need of flexibility or prefer to learn one-on-one. Partnering with The Spanish Cultural Association of Hong Kong, Spanish Tutors can help you arrange lessons at one of its centres or at home, also offering small group classes for up to five students. Register your interest STAT as its network of Premium Expert Spanish Tutors is high in demand and has limited availability.

When: Flexible
How much: $275 per hour (group lessons, 3-5 students); $350 per hour (semi-private tuition); from $550 per hour for private tuition

Spanish Tutors Hong Kong (Tsim Sha Tsui), 14/F, Eastern Flower Centre, 22-24 Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Spanish Tutors Hong Kong (Central), Room 702, 7/F, Hung Hei Mansion, 5-8 Queen Victoria Street, Central, Hong Kong, 3611 5904, WhatsApp: 5134 9008, www.spanishtutors.com.hk

Viva Spanish Language Centre, Mong Kok – Engaging Spanish classes using multimedia learning tools

Covering levels A1 to C2, Viva Spanish Language Centre is a great place to foster a love for the Spanish language. The programmes taught by native Spanish teachers incorporate a variety of fun learning elements such as games, music and movies, while still following the guidelines of the Instituto Cervantes. Check out the centre’s bookstore for a wide range of textbooks and workbooks for students of Spanish.

When: Enquire here for more details
How much: $3,300 for a 30-hour course

Viva Spanish Language Centre, 2/F, Winner Mansion, 691-691A Nathan Road, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9177 1740, www.vivaspanish.com.hk

Read More: The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong

Spanish World Hong Kong, Central – Best for online, self-paced learning

In addition to its face-to-face Classic Spanish Course, Spanish World also offers an online Comunica Conversational Course, which involves 12 x 90-minute intensive Spanish classes, supplemented with 12 hours of video, audio and text-based interactive content, plus unlimited access to its e-learning platform. This is perfect for learners who prefer to work at their own pace — head here to take your free Spanish level test now!

When: One lesson per week
How much: $4,199 for the 24-hour face-to-face course; $2,799 for an 18-hour online, self-paced course; $4,200 for a summer Spanish course

Spanish World, Room 404, 4/F, Lap Lai Building, 6-8 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2526 9927, WhatsApp: 6722 1546, spanishworldgroup.com/hk

Editor’s Note: “Where To Learn Spanish In Hong Kong” was most recently updated by Nicole Moraleda in May 2023. With thanks to Caroline Jones for her contribution.

The post Where To Learn Spanish In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

We Found The Perfect Gift For Mahjong Lovers

Team Sassy — Thu, 11 May 2023 22:00:12 +0000

Up your Mahjong game with Humid With a Chance of Fishballs’ newly launched “All-About-Winning” classes!

Ever since starting Humid with a Chance of Fishballs Tours (HCFT), Virginia has been introducing the masses to the best of Hong Kong’s culture and heritage by way of off-the-beaten-path food tours around the city and, more recently, private Mahjong classes (Team Sassy has joined her for both in the past!).

After learning the basics of Mahjong with Virginia, we’re excited to hear that she has just launched a new series of intermediate Mahjong lessons for more seasoned – and ambitious – players who are interested in learning how to beat their opponents. After all, Mahjong is as much about strategy as it is about luck!

The private “All-About-Winning” classes, as Virginia likes to call them, are taught in two parts: Mahjong Strategy 1 (Winning) and Mahjong Strategy 2 (Defending). At $2,000, each class is 2.5 hours long and is good for up to four players.

To celebrate the launch of the new classes, HCFT has partnered with two of our favourite local small businesses to put together a limited-edition Mahjong-themed gift set, which you can purchase for $288 (or $188 in conjunction with either a Beginner’s Mahjong course or Mahjong Strategy class!).

The set includes an exclusive Hiraya Scent & Co. x HCFT mahjong-themed candle (which gives off notes of lemon, thyme and bay leaf), an Alvin C. K. Lam hand-drawn mahjong greeting card and a funky pair of Mahjong socks* – the perfect gift for a Mahjong master in the making!

WhatsApp HCFT if you are interested in booking a class or buying a gift set.

Humid with a Chance of Fishballs, 3916 7664, Facebook: Humid with a Chance of Fishballs, Instagram: @ilikefishballs, humidwithachanceoffishballs.com

*The limited-edition mahjong-themed gift set is available while supplies last.

The post We Found The Perfect Gift For Mahjong Lovers appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong: HK Island, Kowloon, Lantau & More

Team Sassy — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 22:00:41 +0000

Whether you’re after a specific title or simply want to spend the afternoon browsing through shelves of books, we’ve got a handy guide to the best English bookstores in Hong Kong.

We were devastated to hear that online bookstore Book Depository would be closing this month — but while we’ll miss the convenience of free shipping to our door, it’s not so bad to get reacquainted with our local bookstores. You’ll get immediate satisfaction as you pick out books straight from the shelf, thumb through crisp pages, take in that new book smell, and peruse stationery, bookish trinkets and slogan bookmarks. For all of our fellow book lovers out there, keep scrolling for the best English-language bookstores in Hong Kong.

The Best English Bookstores In Hong Kong

Mount Zero – A curated selection of Chinese and English books

Nestled in a side alley off Poho’s Tai Ping Shan Street, Mount Zero is a much-loved gem. This bookstore houses a cherry-picked selection of Chinese and English books, plus a quirky assortment of trinkets, stationery and greeting cards. If you need a short respite from the urban bustle, this bookstore offers a cosy space on the second floor to read and relax. There may be fewer English books here, but Mount Zero is still well worth a visit.

Mount Zero, Shop C, 6 Tai Ping Shan Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/mountzerobooks

TASCHEN – Coffee table books on art and design

With its oversized art books on display and animal-print couches, TASCHEN could almost be mistaken for an art gallery. The Tai Kwun bookstore is its first (and only) location in Asia. It exclusively sells books it publishes, which largely include tomes on contemporary art. From photography to comics and fashion, TASCHEN might appeal especially to art buffs, but it caters to everyone.

TASCHEN, Shop 01-G02, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2544 8016, www.taschen.com

Kubrick – Art and design books, speciality magazines, novels and more

For a curated selection of books in an uber-cool setting, head to Kubrick. This quaint little bookstore has a range of art and design books, speciality magazines, novels and more. Kubrick highly values film, music and local culture, so you can find a wealth of DVDs, vinyl records and movie posters here too. It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon with its own cafe, and even an art-house cinema next door!

Kubrick, Shop H2, Prosperous Garden, 3 Public Square Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2384 8929, www.kubrick.com.hk

Books & Co. – A cosy bookstore filled with pre-loved books

Mirror fans might recognise this bookstore from a certain Anson Lo video. Just a short walk from Sai Ying Pun MTR station, Books & Co. is packed to the ceiling with pre-loved books. Come for the fantastic selection of fiction, including mystery, fantasy and romance. The shop also offers food and drinks, so you can cosy up with your book with a warm cuppa.

Books & Co., 10 Park Road, Mid Levels, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong, 2559 5199, www.facebook.com/BooksAndCo

Bookazine – The go-to bookstore for new and best-selling titles

As one of the oldest bookstores in Hong Kong (established way back in 1985!), Bookazine is a great go-to for new titles. There are seven locations across the city, each offering a unique browsing experience. If you’re on the hunt for the latest best-sellers or last-minute gifts, this is the place to go.

Bookazine, various locations across Hong Kong, 2555 0431, www.bookazine.com.hk

Hong Kong Book Centre – A vast collection of English fiction and classic literature

Part of the Swindon Group, the Hong Kong Book Centre is located in a basement space on Des Voeux Road and has a massive selection of English fiction and literature. Chances are you’ll be able to find or order any book you need here. The spacious bookstore also houses a decent assortment of greeting cards, notebooks and stationery if you’re looking to stock up.

Hong Kong Book Centre, On Lok Yuen Building Lower Level, 25 Des Voeux Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, 2522 7064, www.swindonbooks.com

Read More: 10 Poetry Books To Read Now

eslite – Well-stocked Taiwanese bookstore chain

With its Hong Kong flagship store in Causeway Bay spanning three floors and more than 40,000 square feet, Taiwanese lifestyle bookstore chain eslite is a wonderland of printed offerings, with hundreds of thousands of titles to choose from, a good number of which are in English!

eslite, various locations across Hong Kong, 3419 6789, www.eslitecorp.com

Joint Publishing (HK) – Local bookstore chain with a wide selection of Chinese and English books

With an impressive 14 locations across the city, we’re sure you’re no stranger to this local bookstore chain. On top of stocking all types of books, some branches also host book fairs and other cultural events. It’s also a great place to pick up stationery! If you’re looking to enjoy your book with a cup of tea, head to either the Wan Chai or Yuen Long location, which both have a small cafe where you can sit and enjoy your book.

Joint Publishing (HK), various locations across Hong Kong, 2523 0105, www.jointpublishing.com

Lily Bookshop x Flow Bookshop – An independent bookstore specialising in antique, first-edition and out-of-print books

Lily Bookshop is home to a rare collection of mostly English second-hand titles, specialising in antique, first-edition, and out-of-print books. Stocked with everything from autobiographies to cookbooks and classic novels, there are plenty of titles you’ll want to take home from this independent bookstore . After merging due to rising rent, Lily is also the location of Flow, a cosy second-hand bookshop where you can find pre-owned gems for as little as $40.

Lily Bookshop, 1/F, Kai Fung Building, 189 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 6977 5833, www.facebook.com/lilybookshophk

Kelly & Walsh – Independent bookstore stocking specialist and best-selling titles

As bookstores in Hong Kong go, you can’t get better than Kelly & Walsh for all things art and culinary. This pick boasts an impressive and in-depth selection of titles, all housed in an intimate, boutique-style shop. The bookstore also hosts author talks and signings, so be sure to look out for events on its Facebook page!

Kelly & Walsh, Shop 204, Level 2, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong, 2801 6131, www.facebook.com/Kellyandwalsh

Lok Man Rare Books – A rare collection of first editions and valuable folios

Lok Man Rare Books offers a vast array of rare reads, from valuable folios to first editions of modern and classical literature, children’s literature and more. The proprietor of this bookstore, Lorence Johnston, also offers visitors personal guidance and is readily accessible if you need help sourcing extremely rare books. The bookstore also doubles as a sophisticated venue for private cocktail parties and wine-tasting events.

Lok Man Rare Books, G/F, 6 Chancery Lane, Central, Hong Kong, 2868 1056, www.lokmanbooks.com

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Cosmos Books – Popular English titles, magazines & stationery

This Wan Chai bookstore stocks a variety of English and Chinese books, and boasts a particularly good social science section. It’s also known to host book fairs and book launch conferences throughout the year, so stay tuned for upcoming events on its Facebook page.

Cosmos Books, Basement & 1, 30 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2865 0708, www.facebook.com/cosmosbooks.hk

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VIBE Book and Music Shop – Eclectic second-hand bookstore on Lantau

A one-stop-shop for all things entertainment in Mui Wo, VIBE sells an eclectic mix of new and pre-loved books, alongside a collection of CDs, DVDs, vinyl LPs and more. The second-hand bookstore supports local artisans, authors and musicians by stocking their creations, and also runs events to showcase their work.

VIBE Book and Music Shop, Shop E, Silver Centre, Silvermine Bay, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, 9088 2370, www.vibehk.com

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Muse Art & Books – Artisanal books and rare titles

Hidden in the basement of Hotel Stage is Muse Art & Books, a treasure trove of artisanal books and rare titles. The bookstore features a broad range of books, including a small section dedicated to Yau Ma Tei. Sit down with your book on one of its many reading tables or at the adjoining cafe. It’s also worth visiting the hotel’s art gallery, which features the works of different local and international artists.

Muse Art & Books, B/F, Hotel Stage, 1 Chi Wo Street, Jordan, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3953 2203, www.hotelstage.com/the-muse

Editor’s Note: “The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong: HK Island, Kowloon, New Territories & More” was most recently updated by Nicole Moraleda in April 2023. With thanks to Jessica Wai and Sakina Abidi for their contribution.

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