The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards presentation ceremony is set to take place on April 27, 2025, at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. This prestigious event, organized by the Hong Kong Film Awards Association, has generated significant excitement in the local film industry. Recently, the association released styling photos of the nominees in various categories, including Best New Actor, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor/Actress, and Best Actor/Actress.
The Best Actor nominees include some of the most renowned names in the industry: Chow Yun-fat for his role in One Second Champion, Lau Ching Wan for Detective vs Sleuths, Bowie Lam for Limbo, and Aaron Kwok for Home Sweet Home. Chow Yun-fat, who won the first Best Actor award at the Hong Kong Film Awards, is once again vying for the title, showcasing his enduring talent.
Lau Ching Wan, a three-time winner of the Best Actor award, has been nominated for his poignant performance in Daddy, where he portrays a father grappling with the tragic loss of his family. His nuanced performance has already earned him the Best Actor award at the 18th Asian Film Awards, raising expectations for his chances at the upcoming ceremony.
Aaron Kwok, known for his versatility, takes on the role of a robber in Temporary Family, marking a significant departure from his usual roles. His portrayal promises to add a layer of complexity to the character, showcasing his range as an actor.
In the Best Actress category, the competition is equally fierce. Nominees include Jennifer Yu, Louise Wong, Rachel Leung, Stephy Tang, and Sandra Ng. Each actress brings a unique performance to the table, with Stephy Tang being recognized for her role in The Brink.
Fala Chen, a prominent figure in the industry, attended a baby formula brand event on April 26, 2025, where she shared her excitement about the upcoming awards. Chen, who will present the Best Screenplay award at the ceremony, expressed her commitment to balancing her career with her responsibilities as a mother to her two young children. "I don’t want to be away from them for too long," she said, highlighting the challenges working parents face in the entertainment industry.
Chen also discussed her recent film Robbery, which has grossed nearly 12 million, and expressed hope for even greater success at the box office. "If needed, I will return to Hong Kong to thank the audience," she stated, emphasizing her gratitude towards her fans.
In a moment of reflection, Chen mentioned the importance of the upcoming "All Hong Kong Theatre Day" next month, which she believes will help revitalize the film industry by encouraging a new generation to embrace the cinema experience. "I hope theaters can continue to survive so that actors can survive as well," she added, pointing out the broader challenges faced by the industry, including the impact of the pandemic on global cinema.
Meanwhile, Derek Yee, Chairman of the Hong Kong Film Awards Board of Directors, has been actively involved in the preparations for this year's ceremony. He noted that over a thousand people have contributed to the planning process since October 2024, showcasing the collaborative effort behind the awards. Yee expressed his desire to rejuvenate the awards committee, indicating that he has a list of potential successors to lead the organization in the future.
This year, the Lifetime Achievement Award will be shared by two notable figures: director Tsui Hark and Madam Shi Nansheng. Yee explained that the award is given based on nominations from senior industry professionals, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the film industry.
Jo Kuk, who has been in the industry for 27 years, is nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as 'Hu Jin Yan' in Daddy. Kuk recently won the Best Supporting Actress award at the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild Awards 2025, marking a significant milestone in her career. She fondly recalled her experiences working alongside Lau Ching Wan, praising him as a "great artist" whose performances transcend technical skill.
Kuk also opened up about her personal struggles, including a traumatic experience in 2017 when she believed she had passed away after a nightmare. This event prompted her to reevaluate her life and make positive changes. "I decided to quit smoking and distance myself from harmful habits," she shared, reflecting on her journey of self-discovery.
As the awards ceremony approaches, Kuk expressed her excitement and nervousness about the event. She humorously noted that with only a minute to thank everyone if she wins, she might have to prepare a rap to express her gratitude swiftly. "I want to thank so many people, including my family, colleagues, and friends," she remarked.
In a heartfelt moment, Kuk also expressed her desire to reconnect with her mother, who emigrated from Taiwan to Hong Kong at the age of 18. "I want to tell my mom that having me as her daughter has been tough, and I hope we can have a better relationship moving forward," she said, revealing her intention to hug her mother after the ceremony.
As the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards draws near, the anticipation continues to build, with nominees and attendees eager to celebrate the achievements of the past year in Hong Kong cinema. With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, this year's awards promise to showcase the best of the industry, highlighting the resilience and creativity of filmmakers and actors alike.
