TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Acclaimed Taiwanese director Tsai Ming-liang (蔡明亮) has surpassed expectations in his crowdfunding campaign, raising double the initial target for his ambitious 10-hour film marathon "Footprints of the Walker" (行者十步). The director, known for his contemplative, slow-cinema aesthetic, acknowledged on Friday (April 11) the demanding nature of the extended viewing experience with characteristic gentleness, assuring potential attendees that slumbering viewers would not be disturbed during the marathon screening.
In an unusual grassroots marketing approach, the director has taken to street-level ticket sales, hoping to cultivate in Taiwan the sophisticated film appreciation culture he admires in European and Japanese metropolises. The filmmaker revealed plans to expand his meditative "Walker" (行者) series with new episodes shot in Spain and the Czech Republic before year's end. Despite juggling multiple commitments, veteran collaborator Lee Kang-sheng (李康生) readily committed to continuing his role in the series. Tsai quipped that Lee's dedication stems partly from not wanting to slight the character Xuanzang (玄奘), the famous Tang Dynasty Buddhist monk whose pilgrimage inspired aspects of the series.
Demonstrating their commitment to the project's spiritual dimensions, both Tsai and Lee will adhere to vegetarian practices during shooting days as a gesture of reverence. The fundraising initiative swiftly achieved its NT$200,000 (US$6,098) target in just seven days, inspiring Tsai to plan a special afternoon tea service for attendees, to be prepared with Laotian actor Anong Houngheuangsy. The director enthusiastically commended Anong's cooking prowess, singling out his lemongrass-infused grilled meat as a personal favorite — a light-hearted comment given the vegetarian context. ★
