On 12 October 2023, the School of Communication hosted the SCOM Talk Series 50, Mr. Lau Tin Chi, the recipient of the Hong Kong Film Writers’ Association Honorary Award, to be a honorable speaker and share insights on “Creativity Decoding and Screenwriting Secrets” with students and faculty members.
Regarding creativity, Mr. Lau particularly emphasized the importance of “sensitivity.” As a creator, one should observe everyday objects and people with a highly sensitive perspective. He encouraged noting down observations and experiences in a notebook to be used as creative materials in the future. In terms of character development, he taught the “Projection Method,” which involves projecting the characteristics of acquaintances, friends, and family members onto fictional characters. This approach provides more reference points and suggests that positive characters shouldn’t be portrayed as solely perfect and kind, but should also have flaws and weaknesses. Similarly, negative characters should possess some redeeming qualities. Mr. Lau stated, “The most important aspect of screenwriting is structure: setup, development, twist, and resolution. Western films emphasize setup, development, and resolution, while Chinese-language films place great emphasis on twists, reversals, or turning points. The goal is to surprise the audience within the realm of reason, evoking strong emotions and allowing them to experience the protagonist’s predicaments, eliciting laughter, tears, fear, and so on. That’s what makes a good screenplay.”
The students responded enthusiastically and raised various questions, such as the popularity of time-travel themes or open-ended conclusions in contemporary films. Mr. Lau patiently addressed each question in detail and suggested that students analyze classic films, such as works by Akira Kurosawa and Alfred Hitchcock. The lecture sparked a strong interest in creative writing and screenwriting among the students, leading to fruitful learning outcomes.
Professor Chiu Ying Chun, Ronald, Associate Dean of School of Communication, take photo with Mr. Lau Tin Chi.
Dr. Sobel Chan Ka Lok, moderator of the talk, has a chit-chat session with Mr. Lau Tin Chi.
Mr. Lau Tin Chi inspired students on how to unlock the code of creation.
Student actively raises a question for Mr. Lau Tin Chi.
Sharing views on story creation by Dr. Wong Ka Yee, Janice.
Sharing views on scriptwriting by Dr. Luk Koon Yung, Fred.
Sharing views on scriptwriting and interpretation by Dr. Wu Jing, Clio.
The Scom talk received an enthusiastic response, and the students were deeply inspired.
A group photo of Mr. Lau Tin Chi and the teachers and students of School of Communication.
