In a night filled with anticipation and excitement, the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards took place on April 27, 2025, showcasing the best of Hong Kong cinema. Among the nominees for Best Actor was 34-year-old actor Yau Hok-Sau, who gained recognition for his role as a cheerful deaf-mute youth named Chi-Shun in the film See How They Run. This year, he competes against notable actors including Aaron Kwok, Lau Ching-Wan, Michael Hui, and Lam Suet.
Yau Hok-Sau's journey in the film industry has been a rollercoaster ride. He first gained a nomination at the Golden Horse Awards last year, which marked a significant milestone in his career. However, despite the recognition, he revealed that invitations for new roles have not increased significantly since his nomination. "I just want to act," he stated, emphasizing his passion for performing rather than seeking fame.
His portrayal of Chi-Shun in See How They Run has been praised for its depth and authenticity. Yau worked diligently to master sign language for the role, bringing a heartfelt representation of a young man who embraces his identity despite the challenges of being deaf. "I used to be more argumentative, but now I’m more at peace with my experiences," he reflected, drawing parallels between his character's struggles and his own path in the entertainment industry.
Yau Hok-Sau's career began in 2015, but he faced a significant setback during the pandemic in 2020 when he found himself without acting opportunities, leading to financial difficulties. He nearly faced bankruptcy, struggling to pay rent and maintain his livelihood. In a bold move, he decided to pivot to creating content on YouTube, where he gained popularity as a YouTuber (YTR). His channel flourished unexpectedly, yet he found that traditional acting roles became even scarcer.
Reflecting on his experiences, Yau shared how working on See How They Run changed his perspective on individuals with hearing impairments. "I used to feel a bit intimidated by them, not knowing how to communicate or what to say, but I learned that they are not much different from anyone else," he explained. This newfound understanding has enriched his interactions both on and off-screen.
As the awards ceremony unfolded, the competition for Best Actor was fierce. Mad Fate led the nominations with 18, while Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In followed closely with 14 nominations. The Best Actor category featured strong contenders, including Lau Ching-Wan, who recently won accolades for his role in Daddy's, and Aaron Kwok, who took on a challenging role as a criminal in Temporary Family.
Yau's fellow nominees, like Lam Suet, who portrayed a stowaway orphan in Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, and Michael Hui, known for his work in Mad Fate, all brought unique performances that captivated audiences. The anticipation of who would take home the coveted award kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
In the Best Actress category, Louise Wong, who has garnered attention for her role in Mad Fate, was a strong contender, while Chung Suet-Ying continued her momentum from the Golden Horse Awards with her performance in See How They Run. Other nominees included Jennifer Yu and Karena Lam, creating a competitive atmosphere among the talented actresses.
The evening also honored industry veterans Tsui Hark and Nansun Shi with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing their significant contributions to Hong Kong cinema. Their work has not only shaped the film industry but has also inspired countless filmmakers and actors.
The event highlighted the evolving landscape of Hong Kong cinema, with films like Mad Fate and Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In leading the charge in both critical and commercial success. The nominations this year reflected a blend of traditional storytelling and innovative filmmaking, capturing the essence of contemporary Hong Kong.
As the night drew to a close, the winners were celebrated for their remarkable achievements. Yau Hok-Sau, regardless of the outcome, expressed gratitude for the recognition and the opportunity to share his story through his art. He remains hopeful for future roles, emphasizing that he is ready to embrace whatever comes next in his career.
The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards served not only as a celebration of cinematic excellence but also as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of the Hong Kong film industry. As audiences await the next wave of films, the stories and performances from this year's nominees will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.
