Hong Kong may consider funding AI films in Film Development Fund review

The Hong Kong Film Development Fund, traditionally focused on sustaining the local film industry and supporting employment, is undergoing a comprehensive review. Secretary Rosanna Law Shuk-pui stated that while AI is an emerging technology, the government would not rule out supporting developments in this field, including potential funding for AI-generated films. This follows lawmaker Lawrence Tang Fei's suggestion that AI short films could promote Hong Kong and create new business opportunities for young people.

Integrating AI into the FDF presents several considerations for the review. The government will need to clarify the criteria for "AI-generated" productions to qualify for support, including whether they must be entirely AI-driven or if partial use of AI tools would be sufficient. Another key aspect is determining appropriate funding mechanisms that balance technological advancement with the fund's established mandate to foster human-centric employment and livelihoods within the local film sector.

Beyond AI, the FDF review also explores initiatives like digitizing popular filming locations into digital assets for filmmakers. Lawmaker Nicholas Chan Hiu-fung proposed this idea, citing locations like the Court of Final Appeal which are popular but difficult to access. The government will study the feasibility of scanning such sites for industry use, while also considering how to prevent overly similar productions if all filmmakers access the same digital assets, and how individual visual styles could be maintained through modifications.