The film Papa, adapted from the tragic 2010 Tsuen Wan Sharing And Caring Street murder case, has made a significant impact at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards, held on April 27, 2025. The film, which stars Lau Ching Wan, Karena Lam, and newcomers So Man-Shun and Yau Hok-Yiu, has received 11 nominations, including Best New Performer for So Man-Shun, who has garnered acclaim for his portrayal of a murderer.
Director Scud, who has spent over a decade preparing this film, emphasized the importance of focusing on the father's emotional journey rather than the gruesome details of the case itself. He stated, "When I contacted the victims, I felt that the father’s journey should be more important than the case itself." This approach has resonated with audiences, as the film avoids the sensationalism often associated with true crime narratives.
So Man-Shun, who was only 16 years old during filming, impressed the casting team with his natural and pure demeanor, leading to his selection from over a hundred auditionees. Described as having "clear, pure, and direct" eyes, he embodies the character of Kan Hau-Ming, a teenager struggling with schizophrenia who commits the unthinkable act of murdering his mother and sister. Despite his lack of experience, So Man-Shun's performance has been praised for its authenticity and depth.
Reflecting on his experience, So Man-Shun shared, "I felt a lot of pressure while filming, especially during the murder scenes. I was worried about not being able to connect with my character, but I tried to immerse myself fully in the role." His dedication has not gone unnoticed, as he previously won the Best New Actor award at the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild Annual Awards.
In his acceptance speech at the Hong Kong Film Awards, So Man-Shun expressed surprise and gratitude, saying, "Thank you, Mr. Tony Leung, for presenting me with this award. I also want to thank my family, director Scud, and everyone involved in Papa." His heartfelt words resonated with the audience, highlighting the film's emotional core.
So Man-Shun's journey into acting began unexpectedly when he was introduced to the casting call by a family friend. With no prior experience in the film industry, he approached the audition with an open mind, ultimately securing the role that would launch his career. Now, as he balances his studies at the Hong Kong University of Education—where he majors in English education—he remains open to future acting opportunities, provided they do not interfere with his academic commitments.
During filming, So Man-Shun had to navigate the pressures of preparing for the DSE exams while also dedicating time to his role. His father provided unwavering support, reminding him to study and encouraging him with a heartfelt message before the exams: "No matter how you perform, I will always support you." This encouragement has been a significant motivator for him as he strives to balance his education and burgeoning acting career.
In addition to his father's support, So Man-Shun's brother, a professional mental health therapist, played a crucial role in helping him prepare for his character. He provided insights into understanding the psychological complexities of schizophrenia, which helped So Man-Shun portray his character with greater authenticity.
As the film continues to receive acclaim, Scud hopes that Papa will foster a deeper understanding of mental health issues, particularly schizophrenia. He expressed a desire to convey messages of empathy and friendship towards individuals with mental health challenges, stating, "I want to continue adapting real-life cases and contribute to Hong Kong cinema, aiming to make or supervise a Hong Kong film every year to tell Hong Kong stories."
Scud's dedication to storytelling is evident in his approach to filmmaking. He believes that while the stories he chooses often reflect the darker aspects of society, they also highlight moments of light and hope. He remarked, "In the darkness, there is still a glimmer of light. I want to explore that in my films."
The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards not only celebrated the achievements of Papa but also marked a significant moment for So Man-Shun as he steps into the spotlight as a talented newcomer. His journey from a regular secondary school student to a celebrated actor exemplifies the power of storytelling and the impact of cinema on individual lives.
As the night unfolded, the film industry came together to recognize the hard work and dedication of its members, with So Man-Shun's win serving as a reminder of the new talent emerging in Hong Kong cinema. The event showcased the importance of nurturing young actors and supporting their artistic journeys, ensuring that the future of Hong Kong film remains bright.
With Papa paving the way for meaningful conversations about mental health and familial relationships, it is clear that this film is more than just a retelling of a tragic event; it is a story of resilience, understanding, and the complexities of human emotion. As audiences continue to engage with the film, the hope is that it will inspire empathy and awareness, ultimately enriching the discourse surrounding mental health in society.
