port cities

His films frequently explore the maritime history and port culture of Taiwan, particularly in works like 'The Assassin' and 'Dust in the Wind' which reflect on the island's complex relationship with water and trade.

Multiple masterpieces set in Gdańsk and other Baltic ports, exploring working-class port life and political struggle in 'Man of Marble' and 'Man of Iron.'

His visually poetic films repeatedly capture Hong Kong's identity as a major port city, blending its maritime atmosphere with themes of transience and longing in works like 'In the Mood for Love' and 'Chungking Express.'