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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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!"
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.
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.
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!"
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.
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."
Mark Houghton passed away from heart disease at age 64
Ho Mak was one of Lau Kar Leung (left)'s disciples
Charlene Houghton (right) says that her father passed away on the way to the hospital courtesy of mingpao.com
The famous martial art actor Mark Houghton (Ho Mak) was the late
Kung Fu master Lau Kar Leung's apprentice. Active in the 1980s Hong
Kong action film, he died of a heart attack in the early morning
yesterday at age 64. His social network page confirmed the death. His
family said that due to the suddenness of the bad news, efforts were
being made to get out of the grief and begin to deal with the aftermath.
The funeral arrangements will be announced later.
Ho Mak loved Chinese martial arts, in the 1980s he came alone
from the United Kingdom to Hong Kong to pursue the dream. He revealed
in early year interviews that when he first came to Hong Kong, Lau Kar
Leung was preparing for a new film. He excitedly expressed his
admiration for him and performed on the spot, received praises from Lau
Kar Leung who invited him to participate in ACES GO PLACES 5 (JUI GAI
PAK DONG 5). When they made DRUNKEN MASTER II (JUI KUEN), Ho Mak
officially became his disciple and the "fifth generation disciple of
Wong Fei Hung." In addition to being proficient in Hung Fist, Ho Mak
was also able to speak fluent Cantonese. In addition to working as a
behind-the-scenes martial art stunt man in the golden age of Hong Kong
production films, he also because of solid skills often guest starred
in foreign villain roles. During Hollywood superstars Sylvester
Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger's visit to Hong Kong, Ho Mak was
specifically appointed as their personal bodyguard.
Ho Mak's family posted an obituary on social media, "Mark
Houghton was born in England and had a heart for China. His passion for
Chinese martial arts led him to go to Hong Kong alone in the 1980s,
forming an inseparable bond with the city. Through relentless effort,
he mastered Hung Fist, mastered fluent Cantonese, and earned the trust
of his mentor, director Lau Kar Leung to become the highly acclaimed
fifth-generation successor of Wong Fei Hung. As he taught Hung Fist
he spread the art worldwide and the Lau Clan Troupe flourished." His
mentor's former wife, Mary Jean Reimer (Yung Ching Jing), left a message
of condolence. "Kar Leung's most devoted disciple Mark Houghton, Ho Mak,
passed away from heart disease in the early hours of yesterday without
warning. Deep condolences, eternal remembrance."
Ho Mak's daughter, Charlene Houghton (Ho Chi Yan), has followed
in her father's footsteps and is dubbed the "strongest action actress"
as she breaks into the film industry. Yesterday she said in an
interview that her father's death was so sudden. She has never noticed
any health issues. In the early hours of yesterday he suddenly felt
unwell and passed away en route after being taken to the hospital by
ambulance around 2 p.m. Ho Chi Yin was notified and rushed to the
hospital to say goodbye to her father. The funeral arrangements need to
be discussed with the family and the brothers, as the incident was so
sudden that they would needed time to process. She said that her father
went to the mainland early to discuss work, and when he returned to
Hong Kong, he was very energetic and showed no abnormalities. He has
never mentioned having heart issues before.
Did Ho Mak have any last wishes or things he has not done? Ho
Chi Yan said that before 'grandfather' Lau Kar Leung passed away, he
left a script for Papa. Over the years her father has been making low-
budget films, gaining experience in hopes of turning his mentor's final
script into a movie and bringing it to the big screen. "Papa was
preparing for an action film and went to Zhongshan to meet investors. I
would play one of the roles in the film. Now that Father has passed
away, a group of brothers want to work together to complete the film;
but for now we have to handle the final arrangements first."
Anson Kong makes a 180 degree change in attitude, publicly apologizing numerous times and receiving support from his group mates
After being chosen as the "Competitive Ace", Keung To generously talks about his "debt collecting"
Jer Lau gets embarrassed after Edan Lui exposes him, much to the joy of the crowd
Edan Lui feels helpless to be chosen as "Tricky Ace" while Anson Lo (left) looks on courtesy of on.cc
As MIRROR's vice captain Anson Kong (fifth right) does not want his personal comments and behavior to affect the group and receives strong support from his group mates
Anson Kong publicly apologizes for his inappropriate behavior at an earlier interview and admits that the company has disciplined him over the incident
Stanley Yau declines to reveal his wedding date to avoid affecting family and friends who would attend the ceremony courtesy of mingpao.com
MIRROR's vice captain Anson Kong Ip Sang (AK) and group mate
Alton Wong Chi Tak promoted their concert last week and a video of their
media interview went viral online. Some online criticized the two for
their poor attitude in answering questions, while other fans strongly
supported their idols' genuine personalities and sparked a heated
argument between the two sides. MIRROR's new group variety show 'MIRROR
ACE' would premiere on the 12th of this month. Yesterday AK attended a
promotional event, admitted that his performance during the interview
was inappropriate, made viewers uncomfortable and affected the team. He
reflected on this for several days and apologized to the media and the
public yesterday. He explained that even if life pressures have been
overwhelming, they should not affect others. He will work hard to
improve in the future and thanked his group mates for their forgiveness.
Last Monday (September 28), MIRROR attended a press conference
for their year-end concert. When asked about posting a photo of his
middle finger on social media during the Mid-Autumn Festival and then
deleting it, AK replied that the account belonged to him, that he could
do whatever he liked and told everyone not to worry; Alton spoke about
the new show having a third host, then told reporters, "You know so
much, just interview yourself!"
After nearly a week since the incident, yesterday AK along with
nine MIRROR group mates and Hong Kong women's snooker representative Ng
On-yee, attended the promotional event for their new group variety show
"MIRROR ACE," and shared behind-the-scenes moments from the shoot with
over 600 fans in attendance to show their support. Lokman and Alton
were absent due to personal matters. After the event, AK apologized to
reporters one by one and apologized in front of the camera.
AK admitted that his poor performance in the last interview made
the audience uncomfortable. "I want to say sorry to everyone. I've
reflected for a few days and feel I need to do better in the future."
He also apologized to his teammates, "Sorry! For affecting the group."
His group mates voiced their support, "No, it's fine." AK accepted
online criticism and explained, "I've been under pressure lately and
felt overwhelmed; but regardless, my performance that day was indeed
inappropriate. I want to apologize for this behavior and hope to do
better, so that those around me, those who have helped me, and those who
love me don't feel too much pressure." When group mates asked for a
make up meal, he said no problem. He was rumored to have been scolded
by the company. AK admitted directly, "Definitely! After all I was the
one who was mischievous; you live, you learn!" He admitted that his
facial expression management has been weaker, and Stanley Yau Sze Chun
chimed in. "He looks so dark, so it's easy to get misunderstood."
AK was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the Golden Horse
Awards for the first time for the film WE'RE NOTHING AT ALL (NGOR MOON
BUT SI SUP MOR), and received cheers and congratulations from his group
mates and fans at the event. He replied, "Thank you! I would have
never imagined it. I was working that day when the manager called and
cried, so I couldn't hear what he was saying. In short I am truly
grateful, thank you to the judges for your recognition, and also to the
director and the team." He believed that his biggest competitor would
be Tin Kai Man. "Knowing that Big Brother Tin has already won an award
at the Taipei Film Festival, I am already very grateful to be among the
final five. I would just enjoy this grand event and that's enough."
In contrast Stanley was not nominated for "THE AGE OF GOODBYES,"
and was praised by Executive Committee Executive Director Wen Tien-
Hsiang as a "hidden gem." Stanley thanked him for the advice but
admitted that he was disappointed, "I've never tried it before; this
time I was just half a step away." Recently he attended the Tokyo
premiere of the new drama 'kiDnap GAME' and was dubbed the
'International Dragon' by his group mates. He modestly admitted that he
did not deserve it, saying it was just to broaden his horizons. He took
the opportunity to interact and chat with fellow cast members Lee Joon-
gi and Kentaro Sakaguchi, praising them as 'so nice.' Reportedly he
will hold his wedding in Southeast Asia at the end of this month, and
all MIRROR members will attend. He refused to disclose the wedding date
to avoid affecting the number of guests present.
The Edan Lui Cheuk On starred Hong Kong version of "LONG
VACATION" has not yet finished filming, but it would air earlier than
his group mate Anson Lo Hon Ting's already finished "WHAT'S WRONG WITH
SECRETARY KIM." He explained that because the contract was signed to
air in December this year and he is currently working hard to meet
expectations. Anson Lo also felt bad for Edan, revealing that in the
new drama he had many kiss scenes with Ivy So Nga Lam and even
passionate ones. Regarding his co-star Arnold Kwok Tsz Ho recently
publicized photos of the finale wedding scene, he did not mind. He
joked that if people thought it mattered, they should wait for Kwok Tsz
Ho to explain in person. Speaking about the new drama featuring cameos
from Jackie Lui Chung Yin, Eileen Tung Oi Ling, and Wilson Lam Chun Yin,
"I'm very happy that this time I learned a lot from the seniors both in
life and acting." He felt honored that Ng On Yee selected him as the
group's variety show "Snooker Ace," modestly saying that he was not
skilled in the sport but was simply lucky to win. In addition, his
group mates "cheated". In reality, he was "lucky ACE."
Meanwhile Ian was chosen as the "strategy ACE" while Keung To as
the "Competitive ACE", as Stanley joked that "those with money love
money even more". Keung To revealed that after winning HK$ 1000 cash
prize at the group variety show, he chased the staff for 3 days to
collect.
Keung To has recently been actively exercising, saying that it
was not for concerts but for his health. He wanted to play basketball
less to avoid injuries that would affect the team. When asked if he
would work out with group mate Jer Lau Ying Ting, he laughed and said,
"He has been working out, show off a little!" The group selected Jer
as the "never means what he says Ace". Edan revealed that he used
losing weight and being tired as excuses to decline hot pot, but was
persuaded to go. He "ordered everything" after he arrived and became
the biggest eater of the place. He was even ridiculed for resembling
the always hungry "Vivienne" from the drama COME ON, COUSIN. Jer was
immediately asked to promote the group variety show by flirting. He
then covered his face out of embarrassment many time. As for being
called "Vivienne", he joked that he would helplessly accept that. Jer
emphasized that because his group mates were big eaters, he thoughtfully
helped them order food on the show. He called himself the ordering
ambassador.
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