For the first time in over ten years, legendary Taiwanese filmmaker Tsai Ming-liang visited the UK to engage in Q&A’s, hold an exclusive masterclass session, and present a specially curated selection of screenings from his filmography at the iconic Tate Modern in London.

Between 5-7 April, packed audiences enjoyed the multiple UK premieres of Tsai’s films, including a selection of short films, as well as enjoying his 2003 masterpiece of Taiwanese cinema Goodbye, Dragon Inn. Tsai also led a masterclass session, where he answered questions, and discussed in detail the processes and inspirations behind his film-making.

The curated screenings and masterclass were organised as part of the inaugural Taiwan Film Festival UK, which celebrates Taiwan’s long history and diverse cultural heritage through the uncensored lens of independent Taiwanese filmmakers. Tsai’s debut virtual reality (VR) films The Deserted 家在蘭若寺 was also exclusively screened at Asia House between 4-8 April, receiving wide acclaim from both critics and the general public. Asian Kicks said that the “marriage of VR technology and Tsai’s style is incredibly successful,” whilst the Guardian called it “Tsai’s most contemplative work yet.“