Subscribe today using voucher code SUMMER22 for an extended free trial

This film is part of Free

Scenes in 1920s Hong Kong

A fascinating film about expat life in Hong Kong; featuring amazing views of open countryside, a steeplechase and frolics on the beach at Repulse Bay.

Amateur film 1929 4 mins Silent

From the collection of:

Logo for Screen Archive South East

Overview

This remarkable film begins with views of the coastal waters around Hong Kong before showing Mrs Simpson, the filmmaker's wife, and her friend driving off into the countryside in an open-topped car. A steeplechase at the racecourse follows. Then the Simpsons are seen with their friends frolicking on the beach at Repulse Bay. The Repulse Bay Hotel appears in the distance though today the view is completely different.

William and Charlotte Simpson were joined by her brother, John Berkin, for the day on the beach at Repulse Bay. The Repulse Bay Hotel was demolished during the 1970s and 1980s and a shopping mall was constructed on part of its original site.