Film: Chungking Express

The whiplash, double-pronged Chungking Express is one of the defining works of nineties cinema and the film that made filmmaker Wong Kar-Wai an instant icon. Two heartsick Hong Kong cops, both jilted by ex-lovers, cross paths at the Midnight Express take-out restaurant stand, where the ethereal pixie waitress Faye works. Anything goes in this gloriously shot and utterly unexpected charmer, which cemented the sex appeal of its gorgeous stars and forever turned canned pineapple and the Mamas and the Papas’ “California Dreamin’” into tokens of romantic longing. Wong’s international breakthrough introduced new audiences to his rich, sensorial brand of filmmaking, inviting the audience to disappear into and live inside.

This film appears as part of our GAME CHANGERS Series, featuring twelve films that revolutionized cinema. Each film in the series represents a bold step forward; using new and adventurous techniques, courageous directorial visions, or telling stories from new points-of-view.

In addition to the screenings being free of charge, all twelve films are preceded by a Happy Hour starting at 6:30pm, featuring half price beer and wine as well as free snacks and soda. Join us and experience a piece of cinematic history!

Mini concerts with Juan Cardona, Jr. on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ take place 30 minutes before each film and are made possible by the New York Theatre Organ Society (NYTOS).

The Bardavon/UPAC film series is sponsored by Marshall & Sterling, Herzog’s, and Woodstock Film Festival.