About the Exhibition

The original iteration of “A One & Two: Edward Yang Retrospective” that took place at the Taiwan Film and Audiovisual Institute (TFAI) and Taipei Fine Arts Museum (TFAM) originated in 2019 when Ms. Peng Kai-li, a concert pianist and the wife of director Edward Yang (1947-2007) entrusted over 2,000 unreleased artefacts related to Yang to the TFAI. These artefacts included manuscripts, notes, filming proposals, scripts, letters, documents, audiovisual materials, props, etc., representing the creative trajectory of Yang’s various life stages. 

This Retrospective: Edward Yang programme has taken two years to bring to Singapore with the support of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia and the Taiwan Film and Audiovisual Institute.   

As one of Taiwan New Cinema Movement’s prominent figures, Edward Yang stands as an internationally acclaimed filmmaker, garnering numerous accolades for his artistic contributions. His oeuvre, characterised by its distinct modernistic sensibilities, is praised as precise surgical tools that dissect the alienation and hypocrisy of contemporary society. Within his cinematic exploration, the intricacies of emotions and love intertwine with the profound and ceaseless quest for the essence of life itself. 

The film programme is presented in two sections: “Retrospective: Edward Yang” and “Four Favourites with Edward Yang”. By exploring the artefacts left by Edward Yang, a deeper understanding of how his characters are intricately constructed is attained. Within cinematic storytelling, he breathes life into his characters, infusing them with vitality, emotions, and a sense of realism. His early affinity for comics and the impact of influential cinematic masterpieces significantly shaped his cinematic vision. The retrospective pays tribute to Yang and provides an opportunity to (re)visit and (re)imagine his cinematic universe through screenings, talks, activities and the accompanying exhibition. 

*Film screenings are ticketed. Entry to the exhibition is free.
Opening Hours of the National Archives of Singapore building: 10am – 9pm (excluding public holidays)

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