Tuesday, June 6---New York filmmakers always have the added advantage of shooting in a city that is in itself a major character in their films. No matter the genre, or even the time period, shooting on the New York streets offers an ambience that is instantly recognizable to a world audience (and sorry, cannot be faked on the too-clean streets of Toronto, Chicago or, God forbid, Los Angeles).

Anthony Ng, born and raised in Hong Kong, went to the famed New York University Film School, and instantly fell in love with the Big Apple. His film, 212, a story of twenty-something New Yorkers trying to find their way in life, makes a strong comment on the lack of communication that is somehow part of our sophisticated communication age. Everyone is always reachable via cel phone, digital pager, internet, but oftentimes, it is hard to really communicate. The film has its European premiere this evening as part of the American Independents competition at the Troia International Film Festival.

Sandy Mandelberger sat down with Anthony Ng to discuss the making of his film and his hopes for its future.

Sandy Mandelberger: What inspired you to create your film project?

Anthony Ng: “212