Commissioner for Television & Entertainment Licensing Maisie Cheng has welcomed the filming of the latest Batman sequel, "The Dark Knight" in the city, adding the Batman team will gain first-hand experience of the local crew's efficiency and professionalism.

Speaking at a press conference today, Ms Cheng said she believed the quality of local film-industry professionals was one of the major factors that attracted "The Dark Knight" producers.

Lights, camera...: Commissioner for Television & Entertainment Licensing Maisie Cheng, film director Chris Nolan and leading actor Christian Bale attend "The Dark Knight" press conference. Filming sparks excitement in town.

Preparation work

"Over the past year, the Government has been supporting and assisting the Batman crew in the preparatory work for shooting in Hong Kong, including the scouting of filming locations, overcoming numerous logistics challenges, and securing relevant permits for filming, with the help of various extremely supportive government departments.

"This week, we finally have Batman in action here - and all the effort is well worth it for Hong Kong."

Asked about the appeal to commercial building managers to keep office lights on overnight to facilitate the shooting, she said the decision was entirely up to the building owners or management.

Christian Bale, the actor playing the caped crusader, and Chris Nolan, the film's director, were also at the press conference, which attracted more than 100 local and overseas journalists.

Mr Nolan clarified that the cancellation of a scene in which Batman was to have jumped into Victoria Harbour had nothing to do with pollution.

"It was simply a script decision," he said. He thanked the local authorities for their assistance in the film production work.

Tangible benefits

Film Development Council Chairman Jack So said overseas film productions in Hong Kong might bring in new technology and facilitate exchanges, benefiting the local film industry.

Location filming also brought tangible benefits to the economy, such as employment opportunities and the hiring of ancillary services such as equipment rental, catering and transportation, he said.

"Films for international release will also help showcase Hong Kong to an international audience. I am sure Batman will further raise Hong Kong's profile and attract more tourists," Mr So said.

Mr So said he believed the overall economic benefits to Hong Kong would outweigh any temporary inconvenience to the public.