The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards took place on April 27, 2025, at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre, showcasing a dazzling array of stars on the red carpet and celebrating the achievements of the film industry.
This year's awards featured a live broadcast by ViuTV, allowing fans to witness the glamour and excitement of the event from home. The red carpet event began at 4:30 PM, where nominees and celebrities flaunted their stunning outfits, setting the stage for a night filled with anticipation and recognition.
Among the most talked-about films this year was "The Last Dance" (《破·地獄》), which garnered an impressive 18 nominations, making it the most nominated film of the evening. The film's director and producer, Chan Mau-Hin, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "I sincerely thank the industry for acknowledging 'The Last Dance,' which has continued to resonate with audiences worldwide."
In the Best Film category, nominees included "Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In" (《九龍城寨之圍城》), "Papa" (《爸爸》), "The Way We Talk" (《看我今天怎麼說》), "The Last Dance," and "All Shall Be Well" (《從今以後》). The competition was fierce, with each film showcasing unique storytelling and cinematic excellence.
For Best Director, the nominees were Soi Cheang for "Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In," Man Lim Chung and Au Choi-Man for "Papa," Chan Mau-Hin for "The Last Dance," and Yang Yi-Shan for "All Shall Be Well." Each director brought a distinctive vision to their projects, contributing to the vibrant landscape of Hong Kong cinema.
The Best Actor nominations featured notable talents including Lau Ching Wan for "Papa," Neo Yau Hawk Sau for "The Way We Talk," Michael Hui for "The Last Dance," and Aaron Kwok for "Rob N Roll" (《臨時劫案》). The performances in these films were highly praised, showcasing a range of emotions and depth that resonated with audiences.
In the Best Actress category, nominees included Hsu En Yi for "Last Song for You" (《久別重逢》), Tam Sin Yin for "Montages of a Modern Motherhood" (《虎毒不》), Louise Wong for "The Last Dance," and Au Ga Man for "All Shall Be Well." Each actress delivered powerful performances, captivating viewers and critics alike.
The Best Supporting Actor nominations included Chu Hin Hong and Paul Chun Pui for "The Last Dance," while the Best Supporting Actress category featured Jo Koo for "Papa," Rosa Maria Velasco for "The Last Dance," and Maggie Li Lin Lin for "All Shall Be Well." These performances added depth to their respective films, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
As the red carpet event unfolded, the fashion choices of celebrities became a focal point for attendees and viewers alike. Hsu En Yi, nominated for Best Actress, donned a stunning outfit from Chanel, while Ian from the boy band Mirror impressed in a Ferragamo suit, accessorized with Tiffany & Co. jewelry. Louise Wong's deep V dress with butterfly cut-outs turned heads, embodying elegance and boldness.
Marf, a nominee for Best New Actor, walked the carpet in a sleek black gown from Fendi Haute Couture, showcasing a sophisticated look that captured the essence of high fashion. Jeffrey made a statement in a Louis Vuitton ensemble, complemented by exquisite Boucheron jewelry.
The excitement of the evening was palpable, with many stars sharing their feelings about the nominations and the significance of the awards. Hsu En Yi expressed her surprise and gratitude for her nomination, recalling, "I was in the restroom when they announced the nominees, and I was shocked to hear everyone cheering when I returned!"
With a record number of nominations this year, the Hong Kong Film Awards 2025 is being hailed as one of the most competitive in recent memory. The recognition of films such as "The Last Dance" and "Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In" reflects the growing talent and creativity within the Hong Kong film industry.
As the night progressed, anticipation built for the announcement of the winners. The awards ceremony began at 7:30 PM, with stars and filmmakers eager to see who would take home the coveted trophies. The event not only celebrates cinematic achievements but also highlights the importance of community and collaboration within the industry.
The Hong Kong Film Awards, established in 1982, serves as a significant platform for recognizing the contributions of filmmakers and actors in the region. This year's event underscored the flourishing talent and creativity that defines Hong Kong cinema, with many looking forward to what the future holds.
As the awards concluded, the atmosphere remained electric, filled with joy and celebration for all the nominees and winners. The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards was a night to remember, showcasing the best of the best in the industry, and leaving audiences eager for the next chapter in Hong Kong's cinematic journey.