On April 27, 2025, the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards celebrated the best in cinema, with the film Breakout leading the pack by receiving an impressive 18 nominations. The event, held at the Tsim Sha Tsui Cultural Centre, was marked by emotional moments, particularly for actor Chu Hin-hong, who won the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in the film. This marked a significant milestone for Chu, as it was his first Golden Statue Award.
As he accepted the award, an emotional Chu expressed his gratitude, saying, "A person's brilliance is never solely their own achievement." His heartfelt speech, which he had prepared until 5 AM, moved many in the audience, including actress Wei Shiya, who was seen wiping away tears. "This award, I personally contributed very little to it. What I have today is thanks to everyone's collective effort," he added, thanking his family, including his mother, brother, and his late father, who had been a significant influence in his life.
Chu's journey to this prestigious recognition has not been easy. He had faced opposition from his family when he first expressed his desire to pursue a career in acting. "When I told my parents I wanted to enter the performing arts, they strongly opposed it, especially my brother, who was already on that path," Chu recalled. This led to a long period of tension within the family. However, as he continued to prove himself in the industry, their perspective shifted, especially his father's, who eventually became a supportive figure before his passing.
In Breakout, Chu plays Guo Zhiheng, the son of Xu Guanwen, a character filled with internal conflict as he navigates familial expectations and his desire for independence. Critics and audiences alike praised Chu's performance, noting his ability to portray the character's struggles with depth and authenticity. His portrayal resonated with many, reflecting the complexities of family dynamics and personal ambition.
Before this award, Chu had already garnered attention for his talent, winning the Best Supporting Actor award at the Hong Kong Film Directors' Association Awards in early March 2025 and receiving a nomination for the 18th Asian Film Awards at the end of the previous year. His role as Edward in Golden Capital also earned him nominations for Best Actor at both the 56th Golden Horse Awards and the 39th Hong Kong Film Awards, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Chu's career began after he graduated from the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts in 2005. He has since spent nearly 24 years in the industry, honing his craft and building a reputation as a talented performer. His brother, Chu Hin-yin, is also a well-known figure in the arts, being a member of the band Juicyning, which was formed by graduates of the academy.
The awards ceremony was not just a platform for recognition but also a celebration of the community within the film industry. During the event, it was announced that Breakout also won awards for Best Original Film Music, Best Original Film Song, and Best Screenplay, further solidifying its impact on the cinematic landscape.
Reflecting on his win, Chu expressed a desire to continue striving for excellence, stating, "In the short term, this award is fulfilling, but I also want to win Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Supporting Actress in the future. This award affirms my commitment to the craft, and I will keep working hard because I truly love performing arts." His dedication was evident as he celebrated with his colleagues, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in the industry.
The red carpet event preceding the awards saw a flurry of activity, with nominees and presenters showcasing their style. Wang Danni won the Best Dressed Award in a stunning gold sequined dress, while Chu made a memorable appearance, arriving in an Uber Taxi and playfully commenting on the convenience it offered. His charming demeanor was evident as he shared a heart gesture with Xu Guanwen, further endearing him to fans and the media.
As the evening progressed, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and camaraderie, highlighting the close-knit nature of the film community. The success of Breakout and Chu's heartfelt win served as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the emotional connections forged through cinema.
Chu Hin-hong's journey from a young actor facing family opposition to a celebrated award winner is a testament to perseverance and passion. His story resonates with many aspiring artists, proving that with dedication and support, dreams can indeed come true.
