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MOREPhilippine Film Archive Head Don Gervin Arawan Visits TFAI Facilities and Engages in Professional Exchange
On December 5, the Taiwan Film and Audiovisual Institute (TFAI) welcomed Don Gervin Arawan, Head of the Philippine Film Archive (PFA) under the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), for his visit. Building upon past collaborations in film festivals, screenings, and international audiovisual events, this visit represents a new stage in Taiwan–Philippines cooperation in film preservation, restoration, and curatorial exchange. The relationship between TFAI and FDCP dates back to the 2024 Lumière Festival, where both institutions participated for the first time with restored films selected for Lumière Classics — TFAI with The Woman of Wrath and PFA with Jaguar. During the festival, TFAI’s Deputy Director of Administration, LIN Ying-chih met Head Arawan. Following this encounter PFA and FDCP expressed interest in TFAI’s film catalog for future curatorial reference, laying a solid foundation for ongoing collaboration. ➤ Don Gervin Arawan, Head of the Philippine Film Archive (PFA), visited TFAI and toured the institute's facilities. (Courtesy of TFAI) In November 2024, two FDCP executives also visited TFAI, where both institutions exchanged insights on archival preservation, further deepening collaboration prospects. In 2025, TFAI facilitated its first formal collaboration with FDCP’s Distribution and Exhibition Division, enabling two restored classics — The Wedding Banquet and Rebels of the Neon God — to be screened at the PeliKULAYa: International LGBTQIA+ Film Festival in July. This marked a significant milestone in bilateral collaboration and introduced Taiwan Cinema to a broader audience in the Philippines. ➤ TFAI collaborated with FDCP to present two restored classics at the PeliKULAYa: International LGBTQIA+ Film Festival in July. (Courtesy of FDCP) FDCP is a national film policy agency under the Office of the President of the Philippines. Led by Chairperson and CEO Jose Javier Reyes, a renowned filmmaker, the institution oversees talent development, international promotion, film incentives, and the national film rating system across its various divisions. Established in 2011, the Philippine Film Archive (PFA) serves as the national institution responsible for preserving the country’s audiovisual heritage. A member of SEAPAVAA and an Associate Member of FIAF since 2020, PFA holds a collection of more than 31,000 items, including film prints, digital assets, and related documentation. In recent years, PFA has actively restored significant works such as Jaguar, ’Merika, Insiang, and Manila in the Claws of Light, many of which are now accessible to the public via FDCP’s streaming platform JuanFlix. ➤ Don Gervin Arawan, Head of the Philippine Film Archive (PFA), visited TFAI and toured the institute's facilities. (Courtesy of TFAI) During his visit to TFAI, Head Arawan toured the institute’s facilities and engaged in in-depth discussions on archival workflows and staffing, digital restoration methods, collection scale, and technical infrastructure. He expressed particular appreciation for TFAI’s well-equipped facilities and shared that their archive is scheduled to move into a new building next January. The two institutions also explored potential avenues for regular exchanges and future collaborative film programs. This visit offered TFAI valuable insights into the challenges faced by the Philippines in building a national film preservation framework and laid the groundwork for future regional cooperation in safeguarding audiovisual heritage. ➤ Don Gervin Arawan, Head of the Philippine Film Archive (PFA), engaged in discussions with TFAI Executive Director Iris DU and Deputy Director of Administration, LIN Ying-chih. (Courtesy of TFAI) TFAI has actively strengthened connections with international organizations such as FIAF and SEAPAVAA in recent years. Hosting the PFA Head further enhances opportunities for closer Taiwan–Philippines collaboration in preservation, research, and cultural exchange. -
MORETracing to Expo ’70 Returns Home for Its Taiwan Premiere! Iconic Star Judy ONGG Shines at the Screening, Surprised by a Newly Added 1960s Newsreel Showing Her at Age 15
Following the successful closing of the Osaka–Kansai Expo last month, Tracing to Expo ’70 (1970) —filmed on location at the 1970 World Expo—has officially returned from its original filming site in Japan to make its long-awaited Taiwan premiere. The Taiwan Film and Audiovisual Institute (TFAI) hosted the screening and welcomed the film’s leading actress, Judy ONGG, whose elegant appearance drew cheers from the audience. As a special highlight, TFAI screened a rare Taiwan Newsreel from its archival collection, featuring footage of ONGG returning to Taiwan from Tokyo nearly sixty years ago. A “Phantom Masterpiece” Rediscovered: Tracing to Expo ‘70 Captivates Japan Praised by Japanese media as a “Taiwanese masterpiece for the World Expo” and a phantom film, Tracing to Expo ’70 stirred a sensation in Osaka this summer. Tickets sold out instantly, and film enthusiasts around the world continued requesting encore screenings. Immediately after its world premiere at the Osaka Asian Film Festival, TFAI scheduled the film’s return to Taiwan—presented at TFAI, where the film’s digital restoration was completed.The screening invited the audiences to once again experience the vibrant charm of 1970. Minister of Culture LI Yuan attended the premiere to express his support. He noted: “Watching Tracing to Expo ’70 is deeply touching. It is more than a film but a distilled portrait of an entire era in Taiwan. Judy ONGG was one of the most beloved public figures of the time, and she embodies the spirit of 1970.” He also mentioned that earlier this year, the Ministry of Culture held a series of cultural events at the Osaka Expo that were warmly received. Many audiences hope to see these performances brought back to Taiwan. “I am delighted that Tracing to Expo ’70 is the first work to return home.” TFAI Chairperson Arthur CHU added: “The film’s screenings during the Osaka Asia Film Festival sparked enthusiastic responses from Japanese media and audiences alike. This once again proves that the collective memories preserved in an old film can transcend borders. We are not merely repairing individual frames but restoring the soul of an era.” He highlighted that the success of the Osaka premiere broadens our vision for promoting restored films in the future and marks a meaningful milestone for TFAI. ➤ TFAI hosted the Taiwan premiere of Tracing to Expo ’70. From left to right: TFAI Executive Director Iris DU, TFAI Chairperson Arthur CHU, Minister of Culture LI Yuan (also known as Hsiao Yeh), leading actress Judy ONGG, renowned photographer CHUANG Ling; and the film’s assistant director, LI Ying. (Courtesy of TFAI) Judy ONGG’s Appearance Brings the Premiere to Its Peak The presence of legendary star Judy ONGG, often celebrated as a “national treasure” of Taiwanese pop culture, sent the afternoon’s atmosphere into a joyful high. As a “secret surprise,” TFAI screened the archival newsreel “TV Celebrity Judy ONGG” (1965), can now be viewed online: https://tfaitw.pse.is/8cwfq2 Filmed on December 21, 1965, the one-minute reel shows ONGG, then a 15-year-old rising television star in Japan, being greeted by crowds of reporters upon her arrival in Taipei. She appears alongside Taiwanese film star CHANG Mei-yao, creating a rare and dreamlike moment in cinematic history. Moved by the footage, ONGG shared: “All the memories came back! I’m so happy that we can gather here today and revisit such joyful moments from the past.” She recalled filming experiences in Hokkaido: “Back then, Taiwanese people were crazy about Hokkaido, so our crew traveled there to shoot. I remember running in the snow in high heels! I’ve never done such a thing in my life, only because of this movie.” She expressed her gratitude to the audience and to TFAI for preserving so many recordings from her youth. “Like Tracing to Expo ’70, these images capture moments that can never be rewound. Because of that, they remind us to treasure every moment of the present.” ➤ Judy ONGG becomes emotional while watching the rare archival footage. (Courtesy of TFAI) Join Us for the Exclusive TFAI Member Screening on December 19 Fans wishing to experience the restored beauty of Tracing to Expo ’70 are invited to join the TFAI Member Exclusive Screening on December 19. For more information, please visit: https://tfaitw.pse.is/8cwftq -
MORETracing to Expo ’70 Returns Home for Its Taiwan Premiere! Iconic Star Judy ONGG Shines at the Screening, Surprised by a Newly Added 1960s Newsreel Showing Her at Age 15
Following the successful closing of the Osaka–Kansai Expo last month, Tracing to Expo ’70 (1970) —filmed on location at the 1970 World Expo—has officially returned from its original filming site in Japan to make its long-awaited Taiwan premiere. The Taiwan Film and Audiovisual Institute (TFAI) hosted the screening and welcomed the film’s leading actress, Judy ONGG, whose elegant appearance drew cheers from the audience. As a special highlight, TFAI screened a rare Taiwan Newsreel from its archival collection, featuring footage of ONGG returning to Taiwan from Tokyo nearly sixty years ago. A “Phantom Masterpiece” Rediscovered: Tracing to Expo ‘70 Captivates Japan Praised by Japanese media as a “Taiwanese masterpiece for the World Expo” and a phantom film, Tracing to Expo ’70 stirred a sensation in Osaka this summer. Tickets sold out instantly, and film enthusiasts around the world continued requesting encore screenings. Immediately after its world premiere at the Osaka Asian Film Festival, TFAI scheduled the film’s return to Taiwan—presented at TFAI, where the film’s digital restoration was completed.The screening invited the audiences to once again experience the vibrant charm of 1970. Minister of Culture LI Yuan attended the premiere to express his support. He noted: “Watching Tracing to Expo ’70 is deeply touching. It is more than a film but a distilled portrait of an entire era in Taiwan. Judy ONGG was one of the most beloved public figures of the time, and she embodies the spirit of 1970.” He also mentioned that earlier this year, the Ministry of Culture held a series of cultural events at the Osaka Expo that were warmly received. Many audiences hope to see these performances brought back to Taiwan. “I am delighted that Tracing to Expo ’70 is the first work to return home.” TFAI Chairperson Arthur CHU added: “The film’s screenings during the Osaka Asia Film Festival sparked enthusiastic responses from Japanese media and audiences alike. This once again proves that the collective memories preserved in an old film can transcend borders. We are not merely repairing individual frames but restoring the soul of an era.” He highlighted that the success of the Osaka premiere broadens our vision for promoting restored films in the future and marks a meaningful milestone for TFAI. ➤ TFAI hosted the Taiwan premiere of Tracing to Expo ’70. From left to right: TFAI Executive Director Iris DU, TFAI Chairperson Arthur CHU, Minister of Culture LI Yuan (also known as Hsiao Yeh), leading actress Judy ONGG, renowned photographer CHUANG Ling; and the film’s assistant director, LI Ying. (Courtesy of TFAI) Judy ONGG’s Appearance Brings the Premiere to Its Peak The presence of legendary star Judy ONGG, often celebrated as a “national treasure” of Taiwanese pop culture, sent the afternoon’s atmosphere into a joyful high. As a “secret surprise,” TFAI screened the archival newsreel “TV Celebrity Judy ONGG” (1965), can now be viewed online: https://tfaitw.pse.is/8cwfq2 Filmed on December 21, 1965, the one-minute reel shows ONGG, then a 15-year-old rising television star in Japan, being greeted by crowds of reporters upon her arrival in Taipei. She appears alongside Taiwanese film star CHANG Mei-yao, creating a rare and dreamlike moment in cinematic history. Moved by the footage, ONGG shared: “All the memories came back! I’m so happy that we can gather here today and revisit such joyful moments from the past.” She recalled filming experiences in Hokkaido: “Back then, Taiwanese people were crazy about Hokkaido, so our crew traveled there to shoot. I remember running in the snow in high heels! I’ve never done such a thing in my life, only because of this movie.” She expressed her gratitude to the audience and to TFAI for preserving so many recordings from her youth. “Like Tracing to Expo ’70, these images capture moments that can never be rewound. Because of that, they remind us to treasure every moment of the present.” ➤ Judy ONGG becomes emotional while watching the rare archival footage. (Courtesy of TFAI) Join Us for the Exclusive TFAI Member Screening on December 19 Fans wishing to experience the restored beauty of Tracing to Expo ’70 are invited to join the TFAI Member Exclusive Screening on December 19. For more information, please visit: https://tfaitw.pse.is/8cwftq -
MORETFAI Brings Together Global Experts for “Future to the Back: Archives in Motion,” an International Forum on the Evolving Mission of Film Archives
Dedicated to the preservation, restoration, research, promotion, and education of audiovisual heritage, the Taiwan Film and Audiovisual Institute (TFAI) hosts “TFAI International Forum – Future to the Back: Archives in Motion” on November 13 and 14. The two-day event brings together representatives from leading archival institutions across the United States, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and Indonesia to exchange perspectives on the shared missions and challenges of audiovisual archiving in the contemporary era. Through five thematic lectures, two panel discussions, and one special screening with introduction, the Forum offers a rare opportunity to glimpse the evolving landscape of Asian film history and the future of audiovisual heritage preservation. In an age of rapidly generated images by AI, film archives serve as the cultural memory of a country, preserving the images of daily life and landscapes from the past, while continuously engaging with new visions of the future. The Forum opened with remarks by Deputy Minister of Culture Sue WANG. She said, “TFAI is hosting its first international forum today, it is a moment of great significance not only for the Ministry of Culture but also for Taiwan. It marks an important step forward in advancing our professional work in film preservation and restoration, and in strengthening our alignment with international practices.” ➤Sue WANG, Deputy Minister of Culture at the opening of TFAI International Forum（Courtesy of TFAI） TFAI Chairperson Arthur CHU also noted in his opening remarks, “Film preservation and restoration is an act of bringing cultural memory back to life. I am deeply grateful to the directors and experts from film archives around the world who have joined us for the TFAI’s first international forum. I hope these two days will be truly rewarding and inspiring for the audiences who are interested in film restoration.” ➤ Arthur CHU, TFAI Chairperson at the opening of TFAI International Forum（Courtesy of TFAI） The first day of the forum featured four thematic lectures: “Unlocking the Thai Film Archive: A Journey Through Its History, Mission and Future,” “Film Archiving in Japan: Institutional Development and Contemporary Challenges,” “When Images Speak: On Audiovisual Recording and Museum Narratives,” and “Preserving the Past, Projecting the Future: The Mission and Vision of the Korean Film Archive.” A panel discussion, “Reimagining Asian Cinema: Archives, Memory, and Transnational Collaboration,” and a special screening, “From Film Archives to Open Access,” followed, inviting participants to rediscover the historical images and the resilience behind each archive’s founding journey. Speakers reflected on issues such as limited resources, institutional challenges, and the enduring passion that drives archivists to reconnect moving images with the public, reminding audiences of the difficulty and value of preserving our cultural heritage. Sanchai CHOTIROSSERANEE, Deputy Director of the Thai Film Archive, shared insights during his talk “Unlocking the Thai Film Archive: A Journey Through Its History, Mission and Future.” “AI restoration is simply not possible at this stage. A computer tends to scrub images until they are perfectly clean and uniform, yet much of a film’s visual character and beauty comes from subtle, human traces – the tiny imperfections that give the image life. To preserve this vitality, restoration still relies heavily on human judgment to maintain the film’s artistic integrity.” Despite rapid technological advancements, film archives around the world consistently observe that the “handcrafted” aspect of restoration and preservation remains irreplaceable. ➤Sanchai CHOTIROSSERANEE, Deputy Director of Thai Film Archives, shared insights during his talk “Unlocking the Thai Film Archive: A Journey Through Its History, Mission and Future.”（Courtesy of TFAI） Alongside Hisashi OKAJIMA, Director of National Film Archive of Japan, and KIM Hong-Joon, Director of the Korean Film Archive, CHOTIROSSERANEE emphasized that moving images embody a country’s cultural spirit, allowing new generations to reinterpret history and strengthen identity. Long dedicated to preserving and promoting Thai and Southeast Asian cinema, Deputy Director Sanchai noted that, “We now rely heavily on social media for outreach, and we believe it is essential to pay attention to how young people engage with these materials. At the Thai Film Archive, we release many audiovisual files from the 1970s online. Young creators then reinterpret them in inventive ways, and I must say their creativity has broadened my thinking and truly opened my eyes.” Director Kim Hong-joon also echoed this concept saying that his current guiding principle for the Korean Film Archive is “access over preservation and restoration.” He explained, “The pace at which Korean audiovisual works are produced today is incredibly rapid. We hope that by making historical footage and archival works more openly accessible, they can resonate more deeply with the public.” As his team is deeply engaged in social-media strategy, he joked that he felt both nervous and excited at this very moment because the Korean Film Archive’s official YouTube channel is about to reach one million subscribers. “For us, this milestone marks a truly significant moment in promoting Korea’s audiovisual culture,” he said. OKAJIMA remarked that Japan’s frequent natural disasters pose significant challenges to film preservation. Looking back at history, he added that we also cannot ignore the human-made destruction caused by war – factors that have deeply shaped the survival and retention rate of a nation’s cinematic heritage. ➤Hisashi OKAJIMA, Director of Japan National Film Archive, remarked that Japan’s frequent natural disasters pose significant challenges to film preservation.（Courtesy of TFAI） At the thematic lecture “When Images Begin to Speak: On Audiovisual Recording and Museum Narratives,” DeSoto BROWN, historian and curator for the Archives at Bishop Museum in the United States, presented a series of rare historical materials on Hawai‘i, inviting the audience to observe how the streets along Waikīkī’s shoreline have transformed over the past eighty years. As a descendant of the family of John Papa I‘i, the renowned nineteenth-century Hawaiian historian and writer, BROWN spoke with particular resonance about the importance of intergenerational memory. He emphasized, “What truly matters are the smallest, most unassuming details of everyday life. It is those ordinary moments that ultimately tell the stories that belong to us.” ➤DeSoto BROWN, historian and curator for the Archives, Bishop Museum in the United States, participated in the Forum online.（Courtesy of TFAI） The forum continues tomorrow (Nov. 14) with two additional sessions: a thematic lecture by Lisabona RAHMAN , FIAF’s Training and Outreach Coordinator, titled “Caring for The Forgotten: Women, Archives, and Collective Practices in Southeast Asia,” followed by a panel discussion “Multiple Pathways to Image Accessibility: From Archives to Innovation” featuring RAHMAN, CHEN Wei-lun, Assistant Curator at the New Taipei City Art Museum, and Wood LIN, Supervisor of Division of Research & Program at TFAI. Through this journey of “memory returning,” they will explore how the moving images can illuminate future trends and redefine the relationship between audiovisual archives and society, culture, and art. More info about the Forum agenda：https://reurl.cc/oKee25