HK film buffs create first Snowden movie

The title of the movie "Verax" refers to Snowden's codename, which is Latin for "truth teller". (Photo: CNTV)

The NSA's controversial Prism program has been in the spotlight for more than a month now. While nearly every form of media eyes to get its hands on Edward Snowden, a group of filmmakers have already turned the whistleblower's two-week Hong Kong asylum bid into online entertainment. 

CIA officers, HK policemen, and journalists - all of their efforts to chase Snowden are shown in the five minute movie, produced by four amateur filmmakers from Canada, the United States, Australia, and Ireland over a three day period.

The title of the movie "Verax" refers to Snowden's codename, which is Latin for "truth teller". And this mysterious truth teller is providing both film material and a free promotion opportunity for the young filmmakers.

During the production, one of the most difficult problems was who would act the part of Snowden. The four producers thought of all the young caucasian males they knew in HK, and then they found Andrew Cromeek, a 25-year old American teaching English in HK.

Because the producers had little knowledge about Snowden's character, there's no live dialogue for Snowden in the film. But Snowden's stint in Hong Kong, as well as his feelings on releasing top secret information to the world, is vividly portrayed.

In fact, the main motivation of the young producers was not political or commercial but was an opportunity to express their affection and attachment to the city of Hong Kong.

The producers say they will not continue the Snowden movies, because it was just a hobby for them. But, as we can see, the whole Snowden issue has already produced quite a splash both in Hong Kong and beyond.