M+ Unveils HK:PM and Cinema Summer Edition for 2025

The M+ Museum in Hong Kong's West Kowloon Cultural District has announced a dynamic lineup for its upcoming 'HK:PM' moving image commission and Cinema Summer Edition, set to take place from July 1 to September 21, 2025. This initiative represents a significant cultural investment, showcasing the vibrancy of Hong Kong's urban landscape through the lens of renowned photographer Greg Girard.

Scheduled to be displayed on the M+ Facade from July 4 to September 28, 2025, Girard's 'HK:PM' is a visual narrative that captures the essence of the city through photographs taken between the 1970s and 1990s. Girard’s work is designed to animate the streets of Hong Kong, featuring iconic scenes that blend everyday life with the city's rich history. The presentation transforms static images into a moving tapestry, reflecting the bustling life in Central, the historic Kowloon Walled City, and the cultural memories associated with the city's film heritage.

M+ has positioned itself as Asia’s first global museum dedicated to contemporary visual culture, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the region's artistic identity. According to Suhanya Raffel, Executive Director of M+, "The HK:PM project is not just an exhibition; it is a return to the heart of Hong Kong's vibrant past, allowing us to relive our collective memories through the artistry of Greg Girard."

In addition to 'HK:PM', the museum's Cinema Summer Edition features a series of screenings celebrating the diverse filmography of actor Keanu Reeves. The 'Stair in the Dark' series will include cult classics such as 'The Matrix' (1999) and 'Point Break' (1991), as well as a free screening of 'Johnny Mnemonic: In Black and White' (1995/2021) in the M+ Cinema. This summer, M+ also welcomes back the ASEAN Film Festival, which aims to showcase contemporary Southeast Asian cinema through various film programs, including a special cine-concert performance of Garin Nugroho’s 'Samsara' (2024).

The M+ Cinema initiative reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity and diversity in film programming. According to Dr. Maria Wong, a film studies expert at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, "This programming is vital for the cultural landscape of Hong Kong, as it not only honors historical cinematic achievements but also promotes emerging voices in the film industry."

Furthermore, 'Avant-Garde Now: Time Travellers' will present works by contemporary artists such as Monira Al Qadiri and Cao Fei, encouraging audiences to engage with speculative narratives that challenge traditional perceptions of time and culture. This exhibition segment aims to blend art with immersive experiences, fostering dialogue around the future of visual storytelling.

The M+ initiatives signal a significant cultural moment for Hong Kong, particularly in the context of recent global disruptions. The museum is poised to become a beacon of artistic expression and cultural dialogue in the region. As noted by Dr. Eric Lee, an art historian at the University of Hong Kong, "M+ not only enriches the cultural fabric of Hong Kong but also serves as a critical platform for discussions around identity and history in contemporary society."

As the M+ Museum prepares for these events, the anticipation surrounding 'HK:PM' and the Cinema Summer Edition underscores a vibrant future for arts and culture in Hong Kong. With a commitment to presenting innovative and thought-provoking content, M+ aims to engage both local and international audiences in the exploration of contemporary visual culture.