[2026.10.13] POLE DANCING LEAVES CATHERINE CHAU AND THAIMAY WITH INJURIES ALL OVER

courtesy of mingpao.com

Yeung Nga Man (starting left), Elaine Jin and Catherine Chau through BIRD OF PARADISE share the search for self worth and the experience of generational reconciliation between three generations of women

Catherina Chau suffers fractures from practicing hard on pole dancing and has to stop work. She admits that the psychological pressure can rival the physical pain

Yeung Nga Man makes her big screen debut, as BIRD OF PARADISE and GOOD TRIP are released around the same time
courtesy of mingpao.com

The film BIRD OF PARADISE (MA YEUNG NIN WA) centers on themes of women seeking self-worth and reconciling across generations. Elaine Jin (Kam Yin Ling) and Catherine Chau Ka Yee star as mother and daughter for the first time; Chau also bonded with co-star Yeung Nga Man (THAIMAY) while undergoing rigorous pole-dancing training. Off-screen and on, these three actresses, representing different generations, grapple with confusion, emotional wounds, and personal obsessions, ultimately learning to embrace their true selves through dance and the passage of time. The 71 year old Kam Yin Ling took up singing to pursue her dream of performing at the Hong Kong Coliseum; the 47 year old Chau Ka Yee obtained a racing license to join a team for professional competitions; and the 24 year old THAIMAY has a simpler goal: to travel abroad and broaden her horizons.

Chau Ka Yee has long expressed a desire to work with Kam Yin Ling, now that dream has finally come true. On their very first day of filming, they shot the movie's most poignant scene: a heart-to-heart between mother and daughter on the beach. Kam Yin Ling praised Chau Ka Yee's deeply moving performance, noting that acting opposite her was a delight. Chau Ka Yee, in turn, remarked that Sister Kam's commanding presence helped her instantly immerse herself in the role; she was particularly overcome with emotion when Kam delivered lines about her father. "The moment she spoke about Papa, wow! My eyes already welled up. That sense of genuine warmth made it so easy to get into character."

While the mother character appears scatterbrained and comical throughout the film, the beach scene reveals her most grounded and sincere emotions. In real life, Kam Yin Ling is equally candid in her relationship with her daughter. Speaking about missing her daughter's wedding in Spain last year, she explained, "I had divorced my ex-husband when my daughter was nine; I didn't want to see him or pretend that everything was fine. Fortunately, my daughter understood and accepted this." Before the wedding, her daughter came to Hong Kong to choose a gown and invited Kam Yin Ling to take traditional Chinese-style wedding photos as a keepsake. She initially turned down the idea but later realized she had overlooked her daughter's wishes and feelings, prompting an immediate apology. "I thought she was picking the dress too early and that shopping in Hong Kong was inconvenient. I even called a halt to the 8 a.m. photo shoot because I was worried my face looked puffy. It turned out she just wanted Mama's love and company; if I hadn't participated at all, her wedding would have been left with a regret. So, I immediately asked a friend for help, and we successfully completed the shoot." When asked if she was eager for grandchildren, she shared her own experiences and advised her daughter to think carefully before having children. "Back then, I gave up my acting career and moved to the UK to have my daughter. I didn't go out to eat for the first two years of her life; I felt like I had lost my sense of self and was very unhappy. I suffered from postpartum depression and cried constantly." It was not until her daughter started school at age four that she rediscovered herself through learning Latin dance.

To pull off the pole dancing scenes, Chau Ka Yee and "THAIMAY" paid a heavy price. Lacking sufficient muscle mass due to inadequate protein intake, the former pushed herself too hard, suffered a cracked rib, and caused production to halt for a month. She recalled, "I was terrified. My rib was cracked but filming wasn't finished. The crew was waiting for me. The mental pressure was immense." She joked that the ordeal turned her into a "woman easily prone to injury." Overcoming the pain to execute high-difficulty moves proved to be a greater challenge than wearing the revealing dance costumes. Meanwhile, 24- year-old THAIMAY pushed past her limits in just two or three months, successfully mastering the difficult "left leg hang" move. Despite having a background in dance, the friction of the pole against the tender inner thighs caused excruciating pain, akin to "wringing out a towel", and bruising or blistering became the norm. "It was truly painful; I had to wait for the wounds to heal before practicing again, but the process also taught me a more elegant and feminine aesthetic of movement."

THAIMAY plays a student with many admirers. Yet in real life, she self-deprecatingly admits to having been quite submissive in past relationships, often treated by boys merely as "one of the guys." She laughs, "In the past, I didn't dare confess my feelings to the person I liked; instead, I'd help them pursue other girls just to get closer to them." She also reveals a story about a failed first love. "I was very shy back then. The most intimate interaction I had with my boyfriend was studying together in a quiet study room, each in our own cubicle, without even holding hands. He felt it didn't really count as dating, which left me heartbroken for a long time." Today, her perspective on romance has shifted significantly. "I'll take the initiative to pursue a guy, cater to his interests, and drop hints."

Kam Yin Ling notes that she has recently discovered singing helps prevent the aging of the brain and throat. Consequently she has taken up singing again and hopes to appear as a guest performer at the Hong Kong Coliseum. "At this age, one must still have dreams and be prepared for opportunities when they arise." Chau Ka Yee has obtained a racing license and hopes to form a team for professional racing; she says, "Auto racing is a passionate sport. I'm currently looking for sponsors and hope to make it happen next year." Regarding relationships, she takes a "let nature take its course" approach, finding inner peace through meditation and Zen practices. THAIMAY hopes to host travel shows or attend film festivals to broaden her horizons. "I visited Angkor Wat in Cambodia and was deeply moved; the stone architecture possesses immense artistic craftsmanship and beauty."

[2026.10.13] DEAD END'S BUSAN PREMIERE RECEIVES ENTHUSIASTIC RESPONSE

First time Busan Film Festival participants Lokman Yeung and Hedwig Tam have Maggie Siu by their side and feels a little more secure

Fala Chen remembers to get a photo with director Zhang Yimou
courtesy of on.cc

The Isabella Lam Lok Hin written and directed, Soi Cheang Pou Soi produced Hong Kong film DEAD END (BEI SAT DIK NA TIN) was officially selected for the 31st Busan International Film Festival "Vision Asia" competition section, and completed the world premiere in South Korea on October 10th. Lam Lok Hin led the stars Lokman Yeung, Hedwig Tam Sin Yin and Maggie Siu Mei Kei to Busan to attend the red carpet and the post screening talk and interact face-to-face with the local audience. The film was the 7th "First Feature Film Initiative" Higher Education Institution Group award-winning project, and also the first feature film of Lam Lok Hin. The story revolved around a family death that has been sealed for many years, exploring trauma, memory and human nature in a suspenseful way. On the day of the premiere, the three actors had their own characteristics: Lokman Yeung appeared with a black leather coat with a shirt and tie, Tam Sin Yin wore a beige knitted top with a long skirt, and Siu Mei Kei showed her ability in a black suit. The four of them took a photo together in front of the poster to witness the work on the international stage.

The premiere attracted a group of Hong Kong fans to fly to Busan, bringing together the support items to cheer the team and making the atmosphere more lively. In the post-screening exchange, Yeung Lok Man said that this was the first time he watched the work on the big screen. The details and emotions were magnified and he got into the story even more. He was surprised by the depth of the audience's questions. "People from different cultural backgrounds, with their own perspective, interpret our city, the process is very interesting." The host mentioned that similar social phenomena have appeared in South Korea in recent years, which has resonated with local audiences. Yeung Lok Man could not believe it. "The film can resonate across regions, which is exactly its magical power." Lokman participated in the Busan Film Festival for the first time and was both excited and nervous. He said being able to bring the work to meet the audience from around the entire world was a very valuable experience. He thanked Siu Mei Kei for giving him a lot of inspiration on his performance, especially in handling the delicate and emotional scenes. She would take the initiative and share her experience for him to get into character as quickly as possible.

Tam Sin Yin found the enthusiasm of the Busan audience deeply memorable, referring to how invested everyone was throughout the whole process. The audience was actively participating in the exchange, and expressed a strong interest in the origin of the creation and the concept of the director. Bringing a new work to participate in the festival after A MONTAGE OF THE MODERN MOTHERHOOD (FU DUK BUT), she was honored. This trip was particularly unforgettable. Siu Mei Kei admitted that she was tense at the premiere, not for herself but for the first time director Lam Lok Hin. "This is the director's first time, I hope the work is loved, and for more opportunities for collaboration in the future." She said humorously that only when the director has work, would the actors and the behind-the-scenes have started. She said that this character was heavy, during the shoot she never smiled. Because of the new director and the excellent script she decided to accept the role. She called on the public to support Hong Kong films. Lam Lok Hin thanked the film festival for the invitation and the audience for attending, and hoped that the film would visit more countries and regions and eventually be released in Hong Kong for local audiences to enjoy.

The entire Busan region in Korea was rather cheerful, as film festival related events invited actors from many different nations to attend. Among them "Hong Kong Night" has already successfully taken place, artists including Fala Chen, Siu Mei Kei, Lokman, Derek Tsang Kwok Cheung, Tam Sin Yin and Nancy Sit Ka Yin appeared. Even mainland director Zhang Yimou showed his support. Reporteldy, Fala Chen this time would be the "International Film Camp" ambassador and judge and responsible for evaluating Asia's new generation young directors and creative talent. At the same time she took time to attend "Hong Kong night" and had a great time chatting with other guests.

[2026.10.12] CATHERINE CHAU LACKS MUSCLES, ADMITS TO BEING A WOMAN PRONE TO INJURY

Elaine Jin (center) is happy to work with juniors Catherina Chau (left) and Peter Chan (right) and set off many sparks

Xenia Chong denies deliberately mentioning "bedroom tales" with old flame from the past
courtesy of mingpao.com

The film BIRD OF PARADISE (NA YEUNG NIN WA) held a charity premiere the night before, and actors Catherine Chau Ka Yee, Elaine Jin Yan Ling (Kam Yin Ling), Peter Chan Charm Man, THAIMAY Yeung Nga Man, Jayden Cheung Dik Man and the lead singer of the film theme song Gin Lee Hung Ngai attended.

The lead actress Chau Ka Yee for the film practiced pole dancing hard. Although the process was difficult, but during the shooting she was very happy. The relationships between the actors were more like a family. Chan Charm Man said that when he and Chau Ka Yee, who played the role of his wife in the film, shot a deep conversation scene, he had a fever and suffering from influenza A. With cold sweats he spoke affectionately that day. After the shoot was completed, he also transmitted the germs to Chau Ka Yee, causing her to have fever, chills and nausea. Chau Ka Yee also revealed that she was accidentally injured in order to perform the pole dance. She said that due to the lack of muscle strength during the early stage of the shooting, when shooting a scene of lifting up her legs and pressing her body to the pole, her ribs were cracked due to insufficient support and she needed to stop work for nearly three weeks. However she did not take the opportunity to be lazy, instead she used the rest period to strengthen the muscles and finally successfully completed the shoot. Kam Yin Ling also praised Chau Ka Yee as very hard working and a very outstanding actor.

As for Chau Ka Yee's recent injury from her online show's auto racing shoot, she clarified that she had her racing certificate but her vertebrae cracked from working out. "I am truly a woman who is prone to injury, and the cause of this injury is lack of sleep and not having enough muscle. Now I have to take protein supplement."

Gin Lee sang her first film theme song. She was happy to say that she has mentioned to her colleagues that she wanted to sing a movie theme song. She did not expect that a month later, another colleague told her that she had the opportunity to sing. It was really quite a coincidence. Gin Lee has only made micro-films or made guest appearances in movies in the past. She has always wanted to be able to make a movie, and she would not mind playing ugly or villain roles.

[2026.10.11] JOSIE HO CRIES POVERTY AS SHE HELPLESSLY BECOMES THE "QUEEN OF FANTASY FILMS"

Josie Ho (left) teaches Iman (right) set etiquette so he would not panic and be afraid when he takes his mark

Josie Ho says works among the trash is very hard to take, as the location is full of foul stench

Iman plays a cop in the film. With his first step into the film industry he immediately becomes interested

Josie Ho (left) praises co-star Carlos Chan (right) for his professionalism, rolling on the ground in the garbage dump for fight scenes
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Josie Ho Chiu Yi starred film THE MAGE (SUP FONG FAT SI), is her husband Conroy Chan Chi Chung produced and her protege Iman Taheri starred. The new film has attracted significant attention at multiple international film festivals. She said that playing a scavenger was tough, but without the need to play a refined beauty her concerns was reduced. Crowned as the queen of Hong Kong fantasy films, Ho Chiu Yi felt overwhelmed and lamented that due to a tight budget, she could not compare to big commercial films and chose to cut down a big tree with a knife. A newcomer to the film industry, Iman remembered that Ho Chiu Yi sprayed his face with water on his first day at work. Fortunately they got the shot in one take. Ho Chiu Yi revealed that the sequel, THE MAGE 2, would be released next year with a brand-new story that would only retain her character. Iman would leap to the male lead and play a new role.

Ho Chiu Yi revealed that her protege Iman as a police inspector in THE MAGE was not part of the plan. She did not strongly recommend him to directors Oxide Pang Chun and Danny Pang Fat. The directors thought Iman was suitable and even said that he was so handsome that not acting would be a waste for him, so she helped explain the meaning of the Chinese lines for Iman. "At the time he just arrived, I told the directors not to force him to speak so much Cantonese; so most of his lines were in English. I believe the audience will find his Cantonese to be very cute after watching. What I can teach him is set etiquette: not being nervous and timid when taking his mark like 'a rice ball.' I've been through all these situations before and didn't want Iman to make the same mistake, because he's very reserved." Iman admitted he was very interested in acting. Learning Cantonese has not been easy, so he had to listen and talk more. His most unforgettable moment was the first day at work, when Ho Chiu Yi sprayed water to "wash my face." Fortunately the shot was done in one take.

Playing the scavenger, Ho Chiu Yi admitted that every day at work was really tough. "I have to push the trash cart in the garbage room and also pick up trash. The team is really nice. They have me in gloves; but they had holes, so I spend the whole day touching the trash." She said that changing into costumes and filming at these locations helped her get into character, making her feel more comfortable as the shoot went on since she did not have to worry about playing a refined beauty. However, the environment was indeed very dirty and disgusting. "The garbage dump scenes were just dangerous. I was afraid of getting hurt and getting infected by germs. Filming in the slippery woods was truly the hardest to endure, and it was filled with the smell of urine. The only benefit of this sacrifice was being close to my home; I didn't have to worry about being late and I got off work very quickly." She also had to film fight scenes in the garbage dump filled with nails and broken glass. Ho Chiu Yi praised her co- stars Carlos Chan Ka Lok and German Cheung Man Kit for their professionalism, saying, "They're really crazy, able to fight so hard that they can roll around on the ground. I really respect them."

In most of her action scenes Ho Chiu Yi had stunt doubles, but she was very confident with just wire stunts and chose to do them herself. "When I was very young, filming 'PURPLE STORM' already had lots of wire stunts; so I was confident. Yet because I was afraid of the swinging, in one scene where, without any communication, I chose to fly over, wrap my leg around Cheung Man Kit's neck and then hit hard. That move was really dangerous for him too, and I thought, I hope I can get it done in one take. Luckily, the director accepted it. I'm really sorry to Cheung Man Kit and so thankful for his understanding." She laughed and said that even the weather helped during that scene. They have prepared a water truck for rain effects but suddenly there was a thunderstorm, so they immediately turned off the water truck to save production costs.

Before THE MAGE was released in Hong Kong, Ho Chiu Yi first brought the film to the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival in Korea, the Bangkok International Film Festival in Thailand, the Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival in Spain, and the Hawaii International Film Festival. The new film was very well received everywhere. She emphasized that she never deliberately wanted to become the queen of Hong Kong fantasy films. "I didn't intentionally want to. The world just pushed me there. Actually, due to tight budgets, we can't compare with big commercial film companies; so we can only fight against the giants with small means. After doing this for so many years, I also want to make art films but they cost a lot. Now with AI (artificial intelligence)'s help, I hope I can manage it." She revealed that she immediately clicked with the Pang Brothers this time, filming two movies in a row, and hinted that THE MAGE 2 is set to release next year with a completely new story, keeping only her character. Iman will be promoted to the male lead in a new role, and Gardner Tse Kwan Ho will join as the ultimate Big Boss.

[2026.10.10] "BROADWAY CINEMATHEQUE 30" OPENS WITH TWO NEW HONG KONG FILMS

Missing out on a Golden Horse Award nomination, Stephen Fung calls Yeung Wai Lun (left) the Golden Horse Best Actor to be.

Fellow Golden Horse Award Best Actress nominees Chung Suet Ying (left) and Angela Yuen (right) both say that they are friends and not opponents

Derek Yee hopes for more people to come to make movies in Hong Kong, which would help the industry
courtesy of mingpao.com

The 30th Anniversary of the Broadway Cinematheque special program "bc30 opening ceremony" was held the evening before. Two films that were both funded by the Cultural, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Film Development Council were selected as the opening films, including the "Directors' Succession Scheme" film AFTERPIECE (DAI SEI MOK) and one of the "8th First Feature Film Initiative" Higher Education Institution Group winners WE ARE BORN GOOD (SIN NAM SHUN NUI). The main creative teams of the two films, including Derek Yee Tung Sing, Stephen Fung Tak Lun, Angela Yuen Lai Lam, Chung Suet Ying, Alan Yueng Wai Lun, Kearen Pang Sau Wai, Lo Chun Yip and others attended.

The film AFTERPIECE's lead actress Yuen Lai Lam said that she and director Keane Wong Tak Kin had a lot of connection, and they have worked together before. He believed that she can not only play the little white rabbit, but also suitable for playing the big bad wolf. Thus this time he specifically customized the role for her. However, because the film had many scenes on the stage, the performance had a certain difficulty.

Fung Tak Lun in AFTERPIECE had a good performance. Producer Yee Tung Sing stated that if it has not been nominated for the award, it would be a "missed gem." He hoped that Fung Tak Lun would be nominated for the Hong Kong Film Awards in the coming year, and he would even invite Shu Qi to be responsible for presenting the Best Actor award. Fung Tak Lun earlier collaborated with Keung To on a commercial, in which Keung To even ridiculed himself over his fall into the sea. He revealed that he did not conceive the advertisement as he only provided a little opinion. His impression was that Keung To also had quite a sense of humor and easy going personality. "Although I don't think the incident is funny, but the audience does. The result is good and also achieves the purpose of the advertisement."

Fung Tak Lun missed out on a Golden Horse Award Best Actor nomination and joked that he was very jealous of Yeung Wai Lun. That day he thought that he would receive congratulations but nothing happened. He thought that his phone was out of battery. Has his wife Shu Qi consoled him? He said, "Probably not, the only comfort is that Yee Tung Sing sending me the news of the Golden Horse executive committee president Wen Tien-Hsiang calling me an 'omitted gem'. It means that I almost made it, it's OK. I will keep working hard next year." He said that he was happier that his wife was nominated for Best New Director for GIRL than if he was, but he would not accompany his wife to attend the award show. Even if he was nominated, he believed that his wife would not go with him.

The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law Shuk Pui recently said that the Hong Kong SAR government is fully reviewing the Film Development Fund, with the goal of making the Hong Kong film industry flourish again and encouraging more films to be filmed in Hong Kong. Yee Tung Sing also hoped that the government could relax funding for the industry, for example, the First Feature Film Initiative should not be limited to the director's first directed work; even the second work should be funded so that the new director would have more opportunities to perform. "We need to give new directors more opportunities. If we don't graduated students more opportunities, for them to enter the industry directly would be impossible. I feel this is a foundation, and also hope that the Professional Group would have a bigger quota. When the market is poor, we need to do a litte more here." He said that he learned that Secretary Law has been actively assisting the industry, knew that she needed to deal with many things and the industry often troubled her. If she would be able to help the industry with finding some shoot locations such as government venues, then she would be able to reduce production costs. Yee Tung Sing also believed that being able attract films from different places to come to Hong Kong for filming was good, and could increase the job opportunities of Hong Kong film professionals.

In addition, Chung Suet Ying in the film WE ARE BORN GOOD needed to have red paint thrown at her and to be up close with a large number of cockroaches. Fortunately she was not afraid of cockroaches. She only worried that they would spread germs.

Chung Suet Ying won the Golden Horse Best Actress with THE WAY WE TALK (HONG NGOR GUM TIN GUM MOR SUET) two years ago and was nominated again this year, leading to online comparison between her and Maggie Cheung Man yuk. She said, "The comparison is impossible, because everyone is different." She, Yuen Lai Lam and Jennifer Yu Heung Ying's Golden Horse Best Actress category has been referred to as the "group of death". She was happy that she was nominated and WE ARE BORN GOOD was nominated for Best Feature Narrative, but disagreed that she was in thee "group of death". "It's 'the full of life group'. Out of the 5 nominees 3 are from Hong Kong. I am very happy. Our relationship is pretty good." When she and Yuen Lai Lam posed for photos they jokingly pretended to elbow each other. Yuen Lai Lam said that the nomination made her feel "a little proud" and thanked the director for tailoring the role for her. As for her confidence of winning, she said, "I am very chill, it would be like going to a party. I am friends with Chung Suet Ying and Yu Heung Ying, not opponents. We texted to congratulate each other."

Fung Tak Lun called Yeung Wai Lun Golden Horse Best Actor to be multiple times. He felt that Fung was not jealous, just an elder joking. "My acting is only half baked, working with him on AFTERPIECE I learned a lot. It was a great experience." His first Golden Horse Best Actor nomination made him feel very happy and honored. The feeling was wonderful. "I believe the jury doesn't know who I am, which makes me every happier. In addition earlier I played the funny guy in many movies, this time I am nominated or another type of role. For an actor it is even happier." He was not confident about winning because he has always come in second, even in school he was never the top of the class. In addition the competition would be very strong. Pang Sau Wai was surprised by her first Golden Horse Best Supporting Actress award nomination, and said that she was already very happy to be able to participate. The biggest gift was people knew that she liked to act and hoped that everyone would ask her to act more.

Showing his support, Chu Pak Him was asked about his younger brother Chu Pak Hong publicizing his romance. He immediately pretended to be angry that his younger brother did not inform himself in advance. When he would see him he must teach him a good lesson, and even asked his brother to bring his girlfriend for him to look over.

[2026.10.08] FOR THE WEEK ENDING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 2026

For the week ending Sunday, October 4 2026

10 MASTERMIND
  Can : Jing Jin
  Lit : Detective War
    d. James Hung Ling Ching
    Louis Koo Tin Lok, Ci Sha, Simon Yam Tat Wa, Gardner Tse Kwan Ho,
      Amy Lo Wai Man, Ben Yuen Fu Wa, Alan Yeung Wai Lun,
      Eddie Cheung Siu Fai, , Jeffrey Ngai Chun Sun
  Rating : IIB
  Length : 90 mins.
  Opening October 1 2026 in the mainland
  Opening October 8 2026
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/k0pvuxEOYTA

[ HONG KONG MOVIE 6 ]
    A suspect, unsuccessfully pursued by an unknown killer, mysteriously vanished from the detention cell in H City. Baffling by the case, Agent MO received a bewildering message from his friend YANG, the fugitive was found dead in a locked records vault of the Investigation Bureau headquarter, just 10 kilometers away. How did he escape from the detention cell and slip into the headquarters' records vault, moving from one 'sealed room' to another?

    The murder bullet was later confirmed to be MO's so-called lucky bullet, rattling the City Government Intelligence Bureau. The suspect's death was bizarre, and Intelligence Bureau Commissioner BI was drawn into the vortex of the unsolved case. MO himself became the prime suspect, now hunted by both the underworld and the authorities. A mind-bending, tangled plot ensues. MO, YANG, and BI are manipulated by fate, forced to confront the a sensational and fiendishly difficult case!

  9 THE FORGOTTEN ISLAND
    d. Joel Crawford, Januel Mercado
    DreamWorks Animation
    English Voices: H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate,       Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng,
      Kevin McCann, Lea Salonga

  8 ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE MIDDLE EAST
    d. Wen Muye
    Shen Teng, Jiang Qiming, Omar Sharif,
      Aarif Lee Zhi-ting, Sherif Sabby
    Rating : IIB
    Length : 140 mins.
    Opening August 28 2026 in Macau
    Opening September 11 2026
    Trailer : https://youtu.be/dqf6DJvYqgQ

[ EMPEROR CINEMAS ]
    Xu Fu, a chef from Northeast China, heads to the Middle East to work at a Chinese restaurant. Carrying his wok, he hopes to support his family and pay off his debts. He serves up classic Chinese dishes: the Dragon-Raising-Its-Head feast, candied sweet potatoes and Kung Pao chicken. He partners with restaurant manager Ma Junsheng: Xu Fu handles the cooking, while Ma Junsheng takes care of guests. Together, they turn the little-known Dragon Restaurant into a thriving spot.

    War soon breaks out, and local conditions quickly turn dangerous. Different armed groups clash across the region. What will happen to Xu Fu? Can Dragon Restaurant survive amid the chaos of war?

  7 THE ODYSSEY
    d. Christopher Nolan
    Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson,
      Lupita Nyong'o, Samantha Morton, Zendaya, Charlize Theron

  6 VERITY
    d. Michael Showalter
    Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, Josh Hartnett

  5 GOOD TRIP
  Can : Ngor Ah Deh Seung Lui Hung
  Lit : My Dad Wants To Travel
    d. Norris Wong Yee Lam, Wong Hoi
    Nick Cheung Ka Fai, Chung Suet Ying,
      Philip Keung Ho Man, Yoyo Mung Ka Wai,
      Stanley Yau Si Chun, THAIMAY, Philip Ng Wan Lung
  Rating : IIA
  Length : 108 mins.
  Opening September 17 2026
  Opening September 25 2026 (SPECIAL SCREENING)
  Opening September 30 2026 at the Pingyao International Film Festival
  Opening October 15 2026
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/m5vB-wu6RSY

[ HONG KONG ASIAN FILM FINANCING FORUM WORK-IN-PROGRESS PROJECT ]
    Shan, an art assistant, juggles responsibilities on the film set and at the hospital, where she cares for her father, Kueng, who has cancer. During her time at the hospital, Shan is tasked by the crew to collect a big bowl from the prop-studio. At her father's request, they discreetly leave the hospital together, embarking on an unexpected journey from the studio to Macau, and subsequently to Okinawa, allowing Kueng to address his unfulfilled wishes. Following his peaceful passing, Shan inherits not only memories but also a lasting sense of courage, optimism, and imaginative spirit that sustains her throughout life.

[ SCREENDAILY 2026 FILMART DAILIES ]
    Starring Nick Cheung and Chung Suet Ying, this Hong Kong comedy drama follows a film assistant who sneaks her dying father out of hospital to fulfil his last wish for an impromptu trip to Japan. Mabel Cheung serves as producer for Wong, winner of best new director at the Hong Kong Film Awards for her 2019 debut My Prince Edward, and Wong Hoi, who produced Wong's second feature The Lyricist Wannabe. Backed by Hong Kong Film Development Council's Directors' Succession Scheme, Good Trip is presented at the HKIFF Industry Project Market at Filmart.

  4 V
  Can : Hung Cheung
  Lit : Empty Gun
    d. Han Yan
    Zhu Yilong, Tan Jianci, Tony Leung Ka Wai, Michelle Wai Sze Nga,
      Kara Wai Ying Hung, Selena Lee Sze Wah, Ben Yuen Fu Wah,
      Ni Dahong, Cecilia Yip Tung, Huang Jue, Yu Haoming,
      Aarif Rahman (Lee Chi Ting),
      Eddie Cheung Siu Fai, Lam Suet, Wang Ge, Ray Lao, Zhao Runnan
  Rating : III
  Length : 160 mins.
  Opening September 25 2026
  Trailer : https://youtu.be/UuJ7EOTzTPk

[ BROADWAY CIRCUIT ]
    In the early 1990s, this city of desire, once "paved with gold," had fallen into a state of broken order and rampant crime. Man Zi-Keung, a worker, is determined to rewrite his fate. After meeting flight attendant Lok Ka-Yuen, the two join forces to commit a heist, seizing a huge sum of money. This success drives Man Zi-Keung to ever greater extremes, pushing him and wealthy businessman Chan Fai-Yin deeper into a vortex of escalating confrontation. Meanwhile, mainland police officer Qi Honggang and Hong Kong police officer Kwan So-San persist in investigating Man Zi-Keung. With the two police forces joining hands, the clash between good and evil is on the verge of eruption.

  3 HEART OF THE BEAST
    d. David Ayer
    Brad Pitt, J.K. Simmons, Anna Lambe

  2 AVENGERS: ENDGAME ENCORE
    d. Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
    Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth,
      Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd,
      Brie Larson, Karen Gillan, Danai Gurira, Benedict Wong,
      Jon Favreau, Bradley Cooper, Gwyneth Paltrow, Josh Brolin

  1 RESIDENT EVIL
    d. Zach Cregger
    Austin Abrams, Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, Paul Walter Hauser

[2026.10.08] NICK CHEUNG RESISTS WORKING IN COSTUMES

Yoyo Mung and Nick Cheung reunite for another film after 26 years

Yoyo Mung, Chung Suet Ying and Nick Cheung play a family of three in the film
courtesy of on.cc

Yoyo Mung (left), Chung Suet Ying and Nick Cheung play a family of three and have set off a lot of sparks

Yoyo Mung (left) and Nick Cheung collaborate again after 26 years and the chemistry remains

Chung Suet Ying (center) says that swinging back and forth on wires in costumes at the forest feels wonderful

Nick Cheung's "Mediterranean" look has been talked about
courtesy of mingpao.com

Nick Cheung Ka Fai and former co-star Yoyo Mung Ka Wai teamed up with the new generation Best Actress Chung Suet Ying through the film GOOD TRIP (NGOR AH DEH SEUNG LUI HUNG). The film was about how a father with cancer on the final trip of his life reconnected his wife with a very different personality and made up for the regret with the daughter with love, so that the daughter had more courage to face life. Ka Fai and the returning Mung Ka Wai last collaborated on the 2000 film THE TEACHER WITHOUT CHALK (LAU MAN SI BIU), 26 years later they reunited and their chemistry remained. Ka Fai in the interview even made fun of Yoyo's "happy fat."

Playing a middle-aged man with a "Mediterranean" (balding) look, Cheung Ka Fai stated that he suggested shaving his head and then putting on the wig for the performance to be more realistic. "Every time I get a script I would consider the part inside and out. I hope to add more dimension to the character and help me get into the performance." Did he gain weight for the performance? He asked, "Did you get fatter? The new film subject is considered light. Maybe it's because we ate as we shot. I didn't notice that I would become rounder." He instantly gave his onscreen wife Yoyo a wicked look and said, "My old lady is here, you still dare to say that I am fat?" Yoyo ignored Ka Fai's ridicule and admitted that she could not slim back to her former appearance.

Yoyo faded out of the scene for many years. Willing to "come back" and make the film, she said that the film company called her and said that Cheung Ka Fai would be in. They have collaborated in the past and her friends have mentioned Chung Suet Ying before. She thought that working with the new generation would be pretty interesting, so it was a pleasure to participate in the performance. When Cheung Ka Fai learned that Chung Suet Ying has only been in the business for five years, he thought of himself leaving ATV just after the fifth year of his career. He praised Chung Suet Ying had an unique personalities and talent. He also joked that when he first met with he director, he joked that he could play a couple with Chung Suet Ying. As for Chung Suet Ying's role as Ka Fai and Yoyo's daughter, in her eyes the two elders' character could be described as drastically different. She admitted that her thinking in real life was more complicated, as she liked to observe and listen to others. From the two she has learned a lot. "Brother Ka Fai prepares very seriously. He would write a lot of notes on the script, I would sneak a peek. He would mark down what the character needs to speak, presence, Yoyo is very relaxed, but once in front of the camera she would be Mama in the film. They would be the couple with very different personalities in he film, putting me with them we would be very harmonious." Mung Ka Wai praised Chung Suet Ying for being detailed and would add settings for the dialogue on the script. Ka Fai also liked this onscreen team, and also only took the role because of the writing and directing team behind the scenes. "This film is the Hong Kong Film Development Council's 'Directors' Succession Scheme' funded. This collaboration is very fitting for the theme of the development fund, with old, middle and young all in one. With young people's ideas, everyone can have the opportunity to interact, and the director is also able to make it happen."

Chung Suet Ying in the film played a film art assistant. She had to wear period costumes to be on the wires and also play a dead body. She said her first attempt in costume was very enjoyable, but the director asked her last minute at the set about the wire scene. Since the experience of swinging back and forth in the woods was rare, she thought it was very fun. Ka Fai and Yoyo also appeared in costumes. Yoyo said with a smile, "When I hear about wire work, I look at the script and it's just Chung Suet (Chung Suet Ying), everyone is immediately very happy!" Actually Yoyo has never tried the burlap costume before. Ka Fai was deeply resistant to making costume films. "Others think that it would be very interesting. The long wigs would stick to the neck. Wearing costumes that are like three or four layers of curtains, you also have to speak eloquently and keep your back straight for two full months. It's very exhausting. Looking back at Director Chang Cheh's era when every movie was in costume and actors had to fight in fine details, it as really very rough. Now with AI, the younger generation of actors won't have it as rough." The Okinawa location shoot was memorable for them, as they ran into a large scale festival with tens of thousands participants. The team chose a safe spot to shoot and receive the passionate welcome from the residents there. "We have to run over to hold a rope and pray, the rope is so thick that we couldn't put our arms around it. Then we would take the cut down rope home. Many residents help out with the cutting. It's pretty interesting."

Mung Ka Wai has been said to have emigrated to live in Japan, which she clarified that she has never left Hong Kong. She would only fly to Japan to handle business on schedule. Now with AI's help it has been much more convenient. Although she had a a happy filming experience this time, Yoyo did not have much of an acting bug. She understood that now making a movie would be very difficult. She was very happy to have the opportunity to shoot, but she would not force it. She would not mind how much the salary would and how much time would be required. "In recent years the film industry climate has been rough. As long as I can help, I wouldn't mind the salary and time." Has her husband Ekin Cheng supported her onscreen "comeback"? Yoyo said, "He has no opinion, the only thing is that he thinks I can lose a little more weight. I have asked him whether I could go out to see people now. He said that I have indeed changed a little more than before, there is room to be thinner." She neither minded nor blamed her husband's evaluation, thinking that she should take this responsibility herself. Actually Ekin has also asked her to lose weight, "But he has to be able to first. Since I eat everyday losing weight is very difficult. Even with pickle ball I can't catch up with the fat absorption." She said that they got along with friends as they were able to talk about anything. "We can talk about anything, basically we have no secret. Whether we like it or don't like it, we should talk about it. This is the most comfortable." Cheung Ka Fai joked, "You used to be so thin, like your ribs would break just from touching you. Next time you can play a wrestler!"

The family of three from the film gathered at the studio to take a warm family photo. In reality Cheung Ka Fai and his wife Esther Kwan Ho Wing have been together for over 30 years. They wed in Australia in 2003, but Ka Fai stated that he was not very focused on the sense of life ceremonies. Although he would buy a cake to celebrate on his wife Kwan Wing Ho's birthday, he has also almost forgotten it. Ka Fai believed that after the audience has seen this movie, they will be deeply touched and understand that the parents' concern for their children is a lifetime thing. He admitted that he has not detected this feeling before he became a father. Cheung Ka Fai admitted that his 20 year daughter has been on his mind the most. As a father his biggest worry was for her to meet a bad guy. He humorously said, "I told my daughter, 'Girl, anyone with money would definitely fool around, anyone without money would still fool around!' Controlling what she runs into would be very hard, so I can only let go and let her experience it herself." He believed that the message that the film wanted to bring out was that even if the couple's personalities were drastically different, they would not have to hurt each other. Instead they could accept each other and find a comfortable way to get along. Just as his and his wife's personalities were equally different but they were still able to live in harmony. He felt that finding another half with the same personality for marriage would be very difficult. "No one would be similar, you can accept finding a comfort zone (get along); not divorce, damage, violence." He also revealed that he has seen a friend who regarded her husband as an idol. When the reporter asked him if he wanted to use it to convey any message to his wife, Ka Fai smiled and said, "I don't think that's necessary, everyone getting along naturally is fine!" As for Chung Suet Ying, she immediately frowned when asked about finding a mate. She said that her family only wanted her to be happy, so they have never tried to play matchmaker for her.

[2026.10.08] WITH THE MAGE, JOSIE HO PROMOTES HONG KONG FILMS OVERSEAS

Josie Ho (center) with her husband Conroy Chan (left) and Iman (right) attend THE MAGE premiere and says that it feels like coming home

Carlos Chan and Kathy Yueng play a couple in the film and have both argument and intimate scenes
courtesy of mingpao.com

Josie Ho Chiu Yi, Conroy Chan Chi Chung, Iman, Carlos Chan Ka Lok, German Cheung Man Kit, Kathy Yuen (Tong Yee), the directors, the Pang Brothers, and others attended the premiere of the film THE MAGE (SUP FONG FAT SI) in Hong Kong the night before, laughing and talking about the sweat and thrills during the shoot, and building trust from every punch. Also a producer and actress in the film, Ho Chiu Yi revealed that THE MAGE successfully broke the film festival participation record of this year's Hong Kong film and achieved good results at film festivals such as South Korea and Thailand. She said that she would like to thank her colleagues for their efforts and was happy to be able to bring Hong Kong films to the people.

At the premiere the actors shared the production experience on the stage. Cheung Man Kit recalled the action scene with Ho Chiu Yi, joking that at the beginning she was spoiling everyone and holding back in her fights. Thus he took the initiative to encourage Ho Chiu Yi. "Relax and fight, I worked out so I can take a beating from you!" The two gradually meshed as trust slowly grew. For the final collision scene their reaction was real, and he felt that blow "from the top of the skull all the way to the pinky toes." The director joked that at that time he heard a "pop" like a coconut falling to the ground. When he turned around he already saw Cheung Man Kit pressing his head and quietly leaving the set. He was so professional that he has not cried out at all from any pain. Cheung Man Kit explained that he only walked away to check the injury. He did not want to scare everyone. At the time he was indeed a little dizzy and he could not focus his vision for a moment. Fortunately he had no major problem and would continue to shoot. Ho Chiu Yi admitted that after the fight, she was afraid of hurting him. She revealed that in the scene she was supposed to sit on Cheung Man Kit's shoulders; because she could not steady herself, they finally changed the stunt to wrapping her legs around his neck.

THE MAGE has participated in a number of international film festivals and broken the film festival participation records of this year's Hong Kong film. At the time of the interview, Ho Chiu Yi expressed her gratitude to her colleagues for their efforts and was happy to be able to present Hong Kong films to the public. "The premiere in Hong Kong has the feeling of coming home." As for winning he Fantastic Icon Award at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, she saw it as a consolation prize for her continuing efforts and said that she should give a share of the award to the team.

Ho Chiu Yi said that movies like THE MAGE still could not be released in the mainland and could only be sold to Southeast Asia. "I am very happy that I am able to bring Hong Kong films and my own performance to the audience there. The recognition from Southeast Asia to me is a big thing." She said that the new film had such a performance due to the directors, the Pang Brothers, made it well, and the effort the entire cast put in. She even praised Iman as the most handsome in the entire company and lucky, along with the handsome producer Chan Chi Chung and the handsome and beautiful team.

Referring to the physical condition of the film's producer Chan Chi Chung, his wife Ho Chiu Yi said that her husband has been getting better but is very naughty. He often drank coffee and ate fatty food, not listening to the doctor's advice of exercising, drinking more water, and quitting fat. She hoped that her husband should take care of himself more.

Attending film festivals with his first film, Iman admitted that it was a dream came true. Because some actors have not had this opportunity after many years, he would cherish it. Ho Chiu Yi said that her own show business journey has been rugged, so she would try to give Iman an even road to travel. She also said that Iman has learned some Cantonese, and in the next film he would even have longer dialogue. He immediately said in Cantonese, "You don't know what would happen tomorrow. I once had a girlfriend, you have to be enjoy yourself in the moment."

Tong Yee and Chan Ka Lok played a couple in the film. They said that although they have not seen each other for nearly two years before the shoot because they were busy taking care of children, the collaboration has not been rusty as they had chemistry very quickly. Even the director let go and let them rehearse. Regarding having to yell at Ka Lok loudly, Tong Yee smiled and said that Ka Lok told her to just be herself; because when she was not smiling people would say that she was gloomy. Ka Lok asked Tong Yee out of curiosity what she was caught wearing a beautician uniform while waiting in the ramen shop line, Tong Yee said that on the day she only went to a friend's company to get an understanding about investment. Because she had to stay all day, she wore an uniform only for fear of getting her own clothes dirty. She also denied working as a part-time beautician, emphasizing that being an actor was her real full-time job.

Chan Ka Lok's first single in more than 3 years was released recently, he said that on the night before the release he was so afraid that he could not sleep and his mind was blank. "Even at my age I can still be so afraid that I am completely frozen stiff." He thanked his wife Shiga Lin and his friend Ken Hung Cheuk Lap for giving him a lot of advice. His wife asked her music friends to provide him with advice, "The advice my wife has provided is right, but ultimately she isn't a music producer or singing teacher. My ability to understand is bad, finally I have to ask the teacher." He also said that his daughter has listened to the new song but did not respond, maybe she was too young to understand the lyrics. Speaking of both of her parents are singers, Ka Lok pointed out that his wife often sang with their daughter, and he would also let her daughter listen to his wife's song more to cultivate her pitch. He joked, "She would only get better from listening to more good stuff, for professional level of course that has to be Mrs. Chan!"

[2026.10.07] FOR THE WEEK STARTING SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 2026

For the week starting Saturday, October 3 2026 (Week 40)

VIUTV CHILL CLUB CHART

  5 OUR THING
  Can : Yi Chook Ji Muk
  Jeffrey Ngai Chun Sun

https://youtu.be/cAxYelRrYvA

  4 WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT
  Can : Dun Dun Dun Dun
  Joey Yung Cho Yi

https://youtu.be/oSkYxhne3lA

  3 CAROUSEL
  Can : Suen Juen Muk Ma
  Ichiban Girls

https://youtu.be/YjKifCk-RU0

  2 HEADWIND
  Can : Yik Fung Ji Yi
  Yan Ting Chau

https://youtu.be/nTFV7OBve6E

  1 METEOROID AND EARTH
  Can : Wan Shek Yu Dei Kau
  Sammi Cheng Sau Man

https://youtu.be/f0h5Rgq39Hs

[2026.10.07] TSUI HARK AND STANLEY KWAN ARE AMONG THE HONG KONG ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS HONOREES

Tsui Hark receives the Academy of Performing Arts honorary doctorate degree

Stanley Kwan receives the Academy of Performing Arts honroary fellowship
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA) will hold its Honorary Doctorate and Honorary Fellowship Presentation Ceremony on October 16th, bestowing honors upon six distinguished individuals in recognition of their outstanding achievements in the arts and culture sector and their support for the Academy's development. Director Tsui Hark will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate, while Director Stanley Kwan Kam Peng, Cantonese opera artist Mo Yu Tin (Sun Kim Long), Hong Kong Dance Company Artistic Director Yang Yuntao, Hong Kong Arts Festival Development Director Flora Yu Kit Yee, and E-Side Dance Company founder Jacky Yu Yan Wah will be awarded Honorary Fellowships.

The Academy commends Tsui Hark as one of the most influential and visionary filmmakers in contemporary Hong Kong cinema, noting his pivotal role in bringing Hong Kong films to the global stage. A director, producer, screenwriter, and creative pioneer, he has profoundly shaped the artistic landscape and international standing of Hong Kong cinema, serving as a key driver of the Hong Kong New Wave movement and a foundational figure of the industry's golden age. His contributions to the HKAPA are evident in his long-standing personal commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers; having received an Honorary Fellowship in 2007, he has consistently supported the School of Film and Television by facilitating special student screenings of works such as THE TAKING OF TIGER MOUNTAIN, THE BATTLE AT LAKE CHANGJIN, and SEPTET: THE STORY PF HONG KONG. By personally sharing his creative journey and cinematic philosophy, bridging classroom theory with professional practice and enriching students' artistic sensibilities, he demonstrates a long-term commitment to cultivating Hong Kong's future film talent, thereby continuously benefiting the Academy community.

The Academy describes Kwan Kam Peng as an acclaimed Hong Kong film director, producer, and educator whose outstanding achievements reflect his enduring dedication to the development of Chinese-language cinema and performing arts education; his wealth of experience and cultural influence have made a profound contribution to the HKAPA's School of Film and Television. Kwan has provided his own films for use as case studies, enriching the School's curriculum and enabling students and faculty to analyze narrative structures and technical approaches. He also frequently serves as a guest speaker, sharing his firsthand experience in filmmaking, creative decision-making, and directing with the younger generation.

Kwan Kam Peng has participated in the Hong Kong Film Development Council's "Director Succession Scheme" as a mentor to young filmmakers, including Academy alumnus Cheuk Cheung, guiding new directors on how to balance artistic aspirations with market realities and emphasizing the importance of appealing to a broader audience; through this mentorship framework, he makes a practical and long-term contribution to the professional development of Academy graduates.

[2026.10.07] MICHELLE YEOH THANKS FELLOW HONOREE ANN HUI AT BUSAN FILM FESTIVAL

Michelle Yeoh receives the "Asian Filmmaker of the Year" award, attends the IT'S MY TIME press conference and the post screening sharing session

Fan Bingbing hosts the Busan Film Festival special section "Carte Blanche"

Ann Hui receives the Camellia Award for her excellence in achievement in women's films
courtesy of mingpao.com

The 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) opened yesterday in Busan, South Korea, the event is star studded as filmmakers from all over Asia gathered together. Hong Kong veteran actor Michelle Yeoh (Yeung Chi King) and veteran director Ann Hui On Wa were awarded the "Asian Filmmaker Award" and "Camellia Award" respectively to become the focus of attention. The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of Hong Kong Rosanna Law Shul Pui expressed his sincere congratulations.

The 64-year-old Oscar winning Best Actress Yeung Chi King set foot on the stage of the Busan Film Festival again after 15 years to receive the "Asian Filmmaker Award", and the audience applauded enthusiastically. She could not hide her excitement and said, "I feel it's deeply meaningful to be able to come to Busan again after so many years." She shared, "Looking back at my film career, one thing is very clear: no one can do it all alone. Behind every movie, there are people who believe in you, challenge you, and always wait for you." She thanked all the filmmakers she has worked with, and specifically paid tribute to directors Hui On Wa and Zhang Yimou. As for the future, she said that she would look forward to meeting new works and sharing stories. "No matter what happens in the future, I want to continue to learn, stay curious, and be the person people who believe in me can be proud of."

The Asian Filmmaker Award recognizes filmmakers who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of Asian film and culture; the Camellia Awards highlight filmmakers who have made significant contributions to the advancement of women in the Asian film industry. Yeung Chi King and Hui On Wa have been working in the film industry for decades, their works have spread internationally, and they could be described as deserving of the awards. Law Shuk Pui said that the two have had a profound and lasting impact on Hong Kong and the international film industry, and thanked them for their long-term outstanding contribution to Hong Kong cinema and for helping to promote Hong Kong films on the international stage. On the other hand, the Cultural and Creative Industry Development Agency led an industry delegation to attend the film festival, including the winning work of the Film Development Fund and 7th First Feature Film Initiative's Higher Education Institution Group, DEAD END (BEI SAT DIK NA TIN)'s director Isabella Lam Lok Hin and actor Lokman Yeung. The film has been selected for the film festival's "Vision Asia" competition, and will hold the world premiere on October 10th, Busan time. The CCIDA also arranged a reception for "Hong Kong Night" on October 9th to promote exchanges between Hong Kong and the international film industry.

[2026.10.07] NICK CHEUNG WANTS TO CHALLENGE OLD ROLES

Nick Cheung shaves his head for a wig to appear in a "Mediterranean" look

Yoyo Mung works with Nick Cheung again after 26 years and the chemistry remains the same
courtesy of mingpao.com

The Best Actor Nick Cheung Ka Fai starred new film GOOD TRIP (NGOR AH DEH SEUNG LUI HUNG) would soon open in Malaysia, and he has taken the time to accept the media interviews there. Playing a middle- aged man with cancer in the film, he appeared with a "Mediterranean" look. For realism, he took the initiative to shave his head and then put on a wig. The film's funding came from the Hong Kong Film Development Council's "Directors' Succession Scheme" project, Ka Fai said, "This time has old actors, new actors and young actors too. Don't make the "Directors' Succession Scheme" sound so noble, it is already great for everyone to have an opportunity to interact."

Regarding working with Yoyo Mung Ka Wai again after 26 years, Ka Fai joked, "She's fatter! But she's pretty cute. Working with her is pretty happy. During the shoot I feel like the unreliable husband in the film, and she is a wife who annoyed me. The feeling is rather comfortable." Has he ever thought about where he would like to go for the final journey in life? He said frankly, "I don't like to travel. I don't like to take a plane, stay in a hotel. Then why else should I go?"

When asked about his mental age, he said, "I haven't thought about this question, but acting is very important to me. There is a suitable role for every age. Many people say that they have to look for their hobbies when they retire, and I am pretty scared because I really don't have a hobby. My most favorite is acting. (What kind of role would you like to challenge?) The 70 something loser, avenger, an old killer I would be very eager to try, I can accept playing even older!"

[2206.10.07] MASTERMIND PREMIERES IN HONG KONG DESPITE MAINLAND RELEASE WITHDRAWAL RUMORS

Ci Sha praises Amy Lo for looking like she is only 18

MASTERMIND's release withdrawal notice appeared again yesterday
courtesy of on.cc

MASTERMIND director James Kong (starting right) leads actors Simon Yam, Eddie Cheung, Ci Sha and Amy Lo to attend the premiere

Louis Koo is absent but makes a video in advance to call for the audience to support MASTERMIND at cinemas
courtesy of mingpao.com

The film MASTERMIND (JING JIN) would open in Hong Kong on October 8th. The premiere was held the evening before (5th), with director James Kong Ling Ching, stars Simon Yam Tat Wah, Ci Sha, Amy Lo Wai Man, Eddie Cheung Siu Fai and others in attendance. Louis Koo Tin Lok was absent due to work, but shot a video to apologized and hoped that everyone would support the film. The actors on stage introduced the role one by one, and the mainland actor Ci Sha said in Cantonese, "Hello everyone, I am actor Ci Sha, Happy National Day everyone!" A lot of fans cheered him up.

MASTERMIND invites the four major Best Actors Koo Tin Lok, Yam Tat Wah, Gardner Tse Kwan Ho and Cheung Siu Fai to hold down the fort. Director Kong Ling Ching joked that the film has relied on "beauty", but actually impressed people with sincerity and the script. "I am considered a newcomer in this industry, carrying the script and knocking on the boss and each actor's doors. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to make a film with production, the result has exceeded expectations." He pointed out that when inviting Ci Sha, he only casually drank coffee and talked about the performance. He was not familiar with the mainland internet traffic actors, but saw that Ci Sha was very attractive and handsome, his outline had a sense of film, and the two sides got along great.

Cheung Siu Fai has often worked with the new director, said that he too has also been a newcomer, and knew that without new there would be no old. "Film is a heritage job. We have had opportunities so we need to give time for the new generation to perform, more people to take over, then we would continue to have opportunities even when we get older." He worked with Ci Sha for the first time and felt that he was motivated and smart. "Although he is not very new, he is very motivated and respectful of his elders and other actors. He is very diligent." He understood that at first Ci Sha was nervous, just like Hong Kong people would be nervous when they would work on a movie in the mainland but could not understand the dialect. Yam Tat Wah and Ci Sha have many scenes together; in order to put Ci Sha at ease, in the break room he would communicate with him more, ask him to make more Hong Kong production films, and even treated pineapple bun with butter to melt him with good food. Everyone got along very happily.

Regarding MASTERMIND collecting about 4.5 million yuan in the mainland after 5 days in release, the film on October 5th on the social platform said that "in order to respect the original intention of the creators, maximize the protection of the film content presentation and viewing experience, the company decided to adjust the release plan, officially canceled the round of release and follow up to restart the public release later." However the post was later deleted. Director Kong Ling Ching said that he did not receive official news, but this time he made a Hong Kong-made film, Hong Kong was the main audience. He wanted to make the movie for Hong Kong people, so he insisted on using Cantonese. When he asked Ci Sha to perform he also let him learn Cantonese in coordination. He pointed out that everyone had the intention to make a good Hong Kong production film that would be worthy of support at cinemas; not only this one of his but also every Hong Kong film. The Hong Kong release on October 8th will not be affected, and he gave special thanks to Koo Tin Lok for his encouragement and support when he began the shoot. Yam Tat Wah expressed respect for the decision of the film company to withdraw the mainland release, and believed that everyone wanted what was best for Hong Kong films. Yam Tat Wah was previously caught in the wild by the internet at a restaurant, friendly and playing a drinking game for a photo. The fans only found out that he had already quietly paid when they asked for the bill. He felt hat Hong Kong people have a hospitable way, and hope that tourists will come to Hong Kong to play more.

Ci Sha and Amy were not nervous about the Hong Kong release, but at the beginning of the shoot they were nervous about the performance. After the film was made they would leave it for the audience to comment. Ci Sha had to speak Cantonese for his performance, and he smiled and said that he could only face the difficulties head on. However he has also performed the post production dubbing, and Yam Tat Wah has been teaching him authentic Cantonese. He said on the spot, "Handsome, Big Brother, thank you very much!" He also recalled that the pineapple bun with butter that Yam Tat Wah treated him to was among the best food in the world, but because he was afraid of getting fat he only dared to have one in half a month. Amy referred to herself as a representative of Hong Kong, providing "passion" on the set and bringing joy with laughter and noise. "With Ci Sha present, I feel particularly comfortable and happy. We are both the younger generation. Since it is rare for someone to accompany me and learn from the elders, I feel so happy." She pointed out that when she worked with her elders Koo Tin Lok, Yam Tat Wah, and Tse Kwan Ho, she was afraid to speak. In addition she had to play a villain and maintain a cool look, so she try to overcome the tension as much as possible to perform.

Amy recently spent her 33rd birthday, and Ci Sha praised her for looking more like 18. She smiled and said that before the premiere everyone lied to her about an interview, so she rushed out of the bathroom. The lights in the room have been turned off, as everyone brought out the cake and sang the birthday song to surprise her. Her birthday wish was for everyone to be healthy, happy, MASTERMIND to be a box office hit, the audience to continue to support Hong Kong movies. Referring to the withdrawal of the mainland release, Ci Sha said that the actor has the responsibility and work of the actor. After the shoot was successfully completed, regardless of the release was in the mainland or Hong Kong later, the actor could not do anything about that.

[2026.10.06] TONY LEUNG CHIU WAI STRONGLY PROMOTES PHILIP YUNG'S NEW FILM CYCLONE

Tony Leung Chiu Wai (left) praises Philip Yung's new film CYCLONE (right) for its special and heartfelt subject

Tony Leung Chiu Wai (right) poses for a photo with CYCLONE star Liu Yuqiao (left)

Philip Yung (right) has been leading the cast to thank the audiences at many shows

Ronald Cheng posts a photo with his company's artist Edwynn Li (left) and strongly supports his work
courtesy of mingpao.com

Director Philip Yung Tsz Kwong's new film CYCLONE (CHIU FUNG) explores transgender issues. Starring mainland actress Liu Yuqiao alongside Edwynn Li Yuxuan and Jennifer Suen Wo Yi, the film was selected for the big screen competition at the Rotterdam International Film Festival and the feature film competition at the Bangkok Film Festival. Over the past few days Yung Tsz Kwong has led actors in Hong Kong to thank the audience and has invited friends from the industry to enjoy the show. Best Actor Tony Leung Chiu Wai made a special video to share his feelings, revealing that he was deeply moved after watching the film as he thought about it from the cinema all the way home and even went sleepless all night. He also thanked Yung Tsz Kwong and praised the crew and actors, saying that the film made him reflect on life, the meaning of existence, destiny, and freedom. He called on the audience to attend and support this heartfelt and unique film.

CYCLONE will be released on October 2nd. It would be the first Yung Tsz Kwong directed and written film to explore transgender issues, and starring Liu Yuqiao, Li Yuxuan, and Suen Wo Yi. The story follows the protagonist Chaofeng (Liu Yuqiao)'s trek from the mainland to Hong Kong. In order to become her true self, she works hard to earn money for gender affirmation surgery. While facing the entanglement of her drug addict boyfriend, she meets her confidante Xiaomei and is taken care of. At the moment of her final transformation, she suddenly hesitates whether this is the freedom she longs for.

Yung Tsz Kwong, along with actors and production teams, thanked the audience at several screenings over the past few days and invited many industry friends to enjoy the show. They included Leung Chiu Wai, MIRROR members Edan Lui Cheuk On and Tiger Yau Ngo Yin, Fish Liew Chi Yu, Kearen Pang Sau Wai, and Chris Lai Lok Yi.

Leung Chiu Wai was recently moved after watching the film to share his feelings about it, thanked Yung Tsz Kwong and praised the crew and actors' dedication. The actors' performances were very natural, with no trace of acting. This uniquely subjected film had a direct impact on him, making him feel a bit miserable. On the way home after the show, he kept reflecting, "Why do I feel so miserable? I would think about life, the meaning of existence, destiny, and freedom."

Leung Chiu Wai explained that this heaviness stemmed from his recent reading of existentialist philosophical books, which led to his association. "In other words it is about how people live in a meaningless and absurd world, and how should we survive?" He revealed that while watching the film, Camus's work "The Stranger" came to mind. He recalled the real-life situation of transgender people, believing that they 'are like strangers, why is it so hard for others to understand their psychological state in the real world?'

Leung Chiu Wai said that even after returning home, these thoughts still kept him awake. He cited the core existential proposition that "existence precedes essence," pointing out that humans possess absolute freedom to create meaning and live. Even in prison or war, there is still a certain degree of intellectual freedom. The experiences of Jews during World War II also lingered in his mind, prompting him to reflect on the silence of the world and the Creator and to associate with Camus's absurdism or existentialism. He emphasized that the above were just personal feelings. "I believe different viewers will have different opinions after watching. This is just my personal feeling. It's rare that even when the film market is struggling, there can still be such a thoughtful and unique subject matter like this. I hope everyone will support it. Thank you."

Lui Cheuk On said his impression after watching CYCLONE was very shocking. He praised Yung Tsz Kwong's camera work and said that every actor's performance was worth the ticket price, sometimes even two or three times more. Yau Ngo Yin said that Hong Kong needs such powerful and gentle films, and thanked Yung Tsz Kwong for leading everyone to explore some issues faced by the minority. Liew Chi Yu said that CYCLONE is a film that goes beyond everyone's imagination and reveals extraordinary relationships. Away from the public for a long time, Ronald Cheng Chung Kei posted a photo with his artist Li Yuxuan on social media, recommending his first starring role in CYCLONE, praising his talent, saying he has prepared for the performance for a long time and hoping that the audience would show their support.

CYCLONE is one of the "B2B A Love Supreme" project jointly produced by the Hong Kong International Film Festival Association and China's Heaven Pictures, receiving a funding of 1 million HKD. Earlier Yung Tsz Kwong revealed that he also financed several hundred thousand HKD to complete the filming. "When I received the invitation for the Hong Kong International Film Festival's 'B2B' program, I didn't immediately think of making a transgender-themed film. When I saw 'THE TWO LIVE OF LI ERMAO' (directed by Jia Yuchuan in 2019), a documentary about the displaced lives of transgender people in mainland China. I was deeply moved. So we traveled everywhere, hoping to portray this bold and passionate character as a city heroine like Mei Chaofeng in Jin Yong's novels -- light as dust, male and female in one, living with dignity and autonomy amid the misty and cold mountains and waters, maintaining balance and self-awareness amid layers of self-questioning."