Wong Kar-Wai

Born in Shanghai, Wong Kar-Wai first studied graphic design then enrolled in a TV drama-training program, which provided his introduction to filmmaking. Wong began his career as a screenwriter, first earning a co-writing credit for the romantic drama "Once Upon a Rainbow" (1982) and continuing to create in a number of different genres including dramas and crime comedies. His first film as a director was "As Tears Go By" (1987) an atmospheric gangster movie that had success at the Hong Kong box office. Wong's next directorial effort, "Days of Being Wild" (1990) was less successful. A more personal film, set in the 1960's, it focused more on mood and atmosphere and lacked a clear plot. Wong's third film "Chungking Express" (1994) would be his international breakthrough. Conceived and shot during a break from editing his epic martial arts wuxia "Ashes of Time" (1994), "Chungking Express" was a quirky romantic thriller that gained the notice of Quentin Tarantino who championed its US release. After finishing his vision of "Chungking Express" with the film "Fallen Angels" (1995), Wong was named Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival for his wrenching romantic drama "Happy Together" (1997). Next, Wong completed an informal trilogy, which began with "Days of Being Wild." The next two films "In the Mood for Love" (2000) and "2046" (2004), are again atmospheric reflections on romantic relationships in 1960s Hong Kong. After making a short film to contribute to the anthology "Eros" (2004), Wong made his first English-language film and his first film shot in America. "My Blueberry Nights" (2007) the film starred Norah Jones with Jude Law and Natalie Portman taking supporting roles in another examination of challenging romantic relationships. 2013 saw the release of "The Grandmaster" (2013), a biopic focusing on the early life of legendary martial arts teacher Ip Man.