Michelle Wai has made history by winning the Best Actress award at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards for her outstanding performance in the film "Breakout". This victory marks a significant milestone in her career, bringing her a coveted place among the elite in the Hong Kong film industry.
The awards ceremony, held on April 27, 2025, at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, was a night filled with emotion and celebration. Wai's win was met with overwhelming joy from her peers, especially from Chu Pak Hong, who played her brother in "Breakout". His excitement was palpable, as he was seen crying tears of joy upon her announcement as the winner.
In her acceptance speech, Wai expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Hong Kong Film Awards and the judging panel, stating, "This award is a great encouragement to me. Thank you to Emperor Films and my boss, Albert Yeung, for believing in this meaningful project." She went on to thank her family, her husband, and her longtime collaborator, director Chan Wing Chiu, saying, "When I was ready to give up, you never did. Thank you for your support."
Wai's performance in "Breakout" has been described as transformative. She portrayed the character Kwok Man-wai, a strong-willed daughter navigating a complex father-daughter relationship, which resonated with audiences and critics alike. This role has brought her not only the Best Actress award but also three other significant accolades, including wins at the 39th Huading Awards and the 61st Asian Film Festival.
Reflecting on her journey, Wai noted, "I feel lucky to be part of this journey. I have been in the industry for 17 years, and it took time for me to find a role that truly showcased my abilities. This character is a part of me, and it took a lot of hard work to bring her to life." To prepare for her role, Wai dedicated nine months to mastering the martial arts skills required for the film, demonstrating her commitment to authenticity in her performance.
Notably, Wai's emotional depth in acting was highlighted when she recalled a poignant moment from her past during her speech. She said, "As an actress, the most touching moments come from using my own experiences to convey emotions. My sister once faced a serious accident, and I found myself saying similar words to those in the film." This personal connection added layers to her performance, making it all the more impactful.
Wai's journey in the film industry has not been without its challenges. Despite consistently delivering solid performances, she often felt overshadowed until "Breakout" catapulted her into the spotlight. "I’ve always believed in finding the interesting aspects of every script, no matter how ordinary it seems. I’m still in a phase where I want to try everything," she remarked.
The film "Breakout" has been a commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing Hong Kong film of all time, which undoubtedly contributed to the recognition of its cast and crew. During the ceremony, Wai's husband was also seen visibly emotional, further underscoring the personal significance of this achievement for her.
In the backstage interviews, Wai was asked about her husband’s emotional response and her own feelings about the night. She chuckled, saying, "I was so excited, and seeing them cry was quite amusing. It helped calm my nerves." When questioned about her co-star Hui Koon Man, who lost out on an award, she expressed, "Of course, it would have been great for the whole family to win, but it’s okay. He is happy for us."
Wai's victory also emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the entertainment industry. "If I could tell my past self one thing, it would be not to be afraid and to keep going," she said, reflecting on her 17-year career. Her dedication and hard work have finally paid off, as she now takes her place among the best in the business.
As fans and industry insiders celebrate her win, Wai plans to continue pushing herself creatively. "I will keep challenging myself and not take this opportunity for granted. I am Michelle Wai, the actress, and this is just the beginning," she concluded, leaving her audience inspired by her journey and determination.
With this monumental win, Michelle Wai not only solidifies her status as a leading actress in Hong Kong cinema but also sets a benchmark for aspiring actors, proving that with dedication and passion, dreams can indeed come true.
