Taiwan-Malaysia co-produced film 'The Era of Farewell' selected for Toronto Film Festival

The Malaysian-Taiwanese co-produced film "The Era of Farewell" is set to make its world premiere at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in the "Special Presentations" section. Directed by Malaysian filmmaker Ho Yuhang, the movie is an adaptation of the award-winning novel of the same name by Malaysian Chinese writer Lee Yee. The film stars Vivian Sung, a popular Taiwanese actress, and Daniel Choi, a member of the Hong Kong boy band MIRROR, alongside Kai To. The project has already garnered international attention prior to its release. "The Era of Farewell" employs a "book within a book" narrative structure, weaving together characters and destinies across different eras through a mysterious novel. It explores a story of love and memory that transcends time and space. To fully embody their roles and immerse themselves in the Malaysian culture and language, Sung, Choi, and To underwent intensive training in Malaysia before filming. Sung described the filming period as a "profound and precious journey," noting that her character taught her to transform vulnerability into courage and guided her through another era of Malaysian life. Choi expressed his honor at participating in such a romantic and poetic film and was thrilled about its international debut at TIFF. Director Ho Yuhang called the film's premiere at TIFF, a long-held dream, a "great honor" that belongs to the entire "Era of Farewell" family. He also thanked the original author, Lee Yee, whose work inspired the adaptation. The film, which carries Ho's emotional connection to Ipoh, family memories, and his growing years, is scheduled for release in Taiwan by the end of the year.

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The Era of Farewell was a work I encountered when I first arrived in the United States, during the loneliest time in my life. It was Doryan (character name) who taught me to turn vulnerability into courage, and also took me into the life of another era in Malaysia. The process of filming this movie was full of challenges, but it was also a profound and precious journey. To be able to stand on the Toronto Film Festival stage and let the world see this poignant story about love, loss, and farewell, I am truly very moved!