Sino Philes

“Sino Philes” is an experimental mockumentary that follows the lives of David Wong and Vivian Chen, who have just relocated from Vancouver, Canada to Hong Kong, China. In an attempt to reconnect with their roots, they become entangled in unique social conflicts that presently occur between Hong Kongers and Mainlanders. From issues revolving around cross-border tourism and anchor babies, to right of abode and the “Umbrella Movement”, they ultimately discover what it means to be “Chinese” and what the “Chinese dream” means to them.

Presenting the somewhat fictional characters in documentary style, and situating them in real-life not-so-distant-past events, this attempt to blur the lines between reality and fiction brings to question the seemingly bizarre confrontations between Hong Kongers and Mainlanders. By intentionally presenting both sides of the issues objectively, an understanding can hopefully be reached through an open dialogue that extends beyond the film, with the ultimate aim of celebrating the subcultural diversity of the Chinese diaspora the world over.

A co-production with Radio Netherlands Worldwide, the film is published on RNW’s YouTube channel and their Chinese site, Helan Online via Youku and Tudou. Slate Takes thought it fitting to partner with RNW on this production for the main reason that RNW promotes free speech through independent journalism and the use of new media. On this note, we would like to point out that Youku and Tudou removed (i.e. censored) webisode 4, “The Tourist”. However, you can view ALL webisodes below.

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter (@sinophiles).

All WEBISODES can also be found at SINO PHILES WEBSITE

TRAILER

Music: “Xiao Cao” by OnePercentYellow that speaks of solidarity among the Chinese people.

FILM VERSION:

The film garnered an AWARD of MERIT at the ACCOLADE GLOBAL FILM COMPETITION in March 2016.

It also garnered a SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD at, and was officially selected for, the ASIA PACIFIC INT’L FILMMAKER FESTIVAL AWARDS in April 2016.

It was also officially selected for the HONG KONG ARTHOUSE FILM FESTIVAL in Spring 2016.

The Vagabond Project

“The Vagabond Project” is a travel web series that recommends the hidden gems of Hong Kong and Beijing to young influencers. Completed in April 2012, the show garnered a Webby Award in the Travel & Adventure category in 2013.

Follow “Project Runway” model winner, Millana Snow, as she uncovers Gen-Y subcultures in adventure, art, music and nightlife to food, fashion, sustainability and architecture. Catch the highlights in the trailer and some of the webisodes below!

TRAILER

BEIJING ARCHITECTURE

BEIJING STREET SNACKS (Part 2)

PEKING DUCK

HONG KONG STREET FOOD

WAKEBOARDING

LAN KWAI FONG

ROOFTOP BAR

SHOE BEATING

MACAU SKY WALK

May 2013 – The team reunited, but this time in New York City, to celebrate our WEBBY AWARD win!

For more webisodes of “The Vagabond Project”, visit www.thevagabondproject.tv

The Vagabond Project (Producers’ Message)

Slate Takes took great pleasure working with the producers behind “The Vagabond Project“, a travel web series that recommends to young influencers the “hidden gems” of Hong Kong and Beijing. It covers everything but the kitchen sink: from adventure, art, music and nightlife to food, fashion, sustainability and architecture. The show explores the sub-culture of both cities with host, Millana Snow. But first, check out what the producers have to say about the show here. Stay tuned for the webisodes to come! (Completed: October 2011)