In a poignant evening at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards, Sean Lau took home the Best Actor award for his deeply affecting portrayal in the film 爸爸 (Father), marking his fourth win in this prestigious category. The film, directed by Scud, has garnered widespread acclaim since its release, particularly for its sensitive handling of a tragic real-life story.
On April 27, 2025, Lau shared the spotlight with fellow cast members Amanda Lee and Michael Ning, who won Best Supporting Actress and Best New Performer, respectively. Lau, visibly moved, expressed his gratitude on stage, stating, "Today is a very special night. My first film at 21 was Listening to the Unheard, directed by Kirk Wong, and he is here tonight. I’m also thrilled to see many seniors here because if you weren’t here, I would be the senior." His heartfelt speech resonated with the audience, reflecting on his journey in the film industry.
The film 爸爸 is based on the harrowing Yau Ma Tei San Hop Street homicide case that occurred in July 2010, where a 15-year-old boy, Siu Ka-Leung, tragically murdered his mother and sister. The story unfolds from the perspective of the father, portrayed by Lau, who grapples with the duality of being a victim's family member while also being the father of the perpetrator.
Director Scud, in a candid discussion about the film, emphasized that it is not merely a crime story but a nuanced exploration of family dynamics and emotional turmoil. "If viewers have experienced any unpleasant events or family trauma, they may find a sense of release after watching this film," he explained. The film aims to evoke empathy, allowing audiences to feel understood through its tragic narrative.
During the filming, Lau revealed that he prepared for his role by writing down his own children's names and the lyrics to the song "This is Love," aiming to connect deeply with his character's emotional landscape. "When I first received the script, I loved it, but I also considered the heaviness of the role. I realized that actors often face loss in their characters, and now, I’m at a point where I have to portray a father losing his children. It's quite a thought!" Lau shared.
Amanda Lee, who plays the mother, also spoke about her experience in the film. She admitted that the emotional weight of her character led her to shake uncontrollably during filming. "There were moments when I was so immersed in my role that I didn’t hear anyone call 'Action.' I was in a state of pain, crying even before the cameras rolled. It was a challenging process, but it was necessary to convey the depth of emotion required for the film," she stated.
In a touching moment during the awards ceremony, Lau expressed his gratitude to the family behind the original story. He said, "Thank you for loving cinema, my team, my family, and especially thank you to 'Dad,' the real 'Dad.'" His acknowledgment of the real-life implications of the story added a layer of poignancy to the evening.
The film's narrative intricately weaves through the family's daily life, showcasing moments of love and connection before the tragedy strikes. It paints a picture of a family that, despite their struggles, shares tender moments that resonate with audiences. The director noted that the film avoids focusing on the gruesome aspects of the crime, instead opting to highlight the family's emotional journey.
In the original case, Siu Ka-Leung was diagnosed with schizophrenia, which played a crucial role in the tragedy. After the murders, he walked two kilometers to confess to the police, stating, "I killed them; the world would be better with fewer people." This chilling revelation underscores the complexities of mental health issues and the impact they can have on families.
Despite the horrific nature of the crime, the film aims to foster understanding and empathy towards individuals struggling with mental health. Scud's approach to storytelling focuses on the father’s emotional turmoil and his efforts to navigate the aftermath of the tragedy. The film culminates in a hopeful note, depicting the father bringing his grown-up son back home, symbolizing a potential path toward healing and reunion.
As the film continues to receive accolades, it has sparked conversations about mental health awareness and the importance of understanding the complexities surrounding such tragedies. Lau's performance, coupled with the film's sensitive storytelling, invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences with grief and loss.
In the wake of the awards, Lau and his cast members have expressed their hopes that 爸爸 will encourage discussions around mental health and familial bonds. "We want audiences to leave the theater with a sense of compassion and understanding for those affected by similar circumstances," Lau concluded.
As the credits roll on this powerful film, it stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of family, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy. The movie 爸爸 serves not only as a reflection on a dark chapter of Hong Kong's history but also as a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in our everyday lives.
