Hong Kong Film Industry Stages Regional Comeback Amid Local Box Office Slump

Hong Kong’s legendary film industry is launching a major regional charm offensive. The city is sending its biggest stars and hit movies on a tour across Southeast Asia. This push aims to reclaim its past glory as Asia’s premier film hub.

The initiative comes at a critical time for the local industry. According to Reuters, Hong Kong’s box office hit a 13-year low in 2024. This strategic move seeks to build new audiences in growing markets.

Gala Screenings Aim to Rekindle Regional Passion

Recent events in Ho Chi Minh City drew hundreds of enthusiastic fans. They gathered for a screening of the hit action film “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”. Stars like Louis Koo and Sammo Hung were mobbed by supporters.

This “gala presentation” model has already visited Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta. The goal is direct engagement with audiences. Organizers hope to convince regional distributors to once again back Hong Kong cinema.

Wilfred Wong, chairman of the Asian Film Awards Academy, is leading the charge. He stated the need to look beyond Hong Kong’s shrinking local market. The focus is now squarely on building a pan-Asian audience.

Economic Reality Drives New Regional Strategy

The numbers tell a stark story of decline and opportunity. Hong Kong’s 2024 box office totaled just $172.5 million. Meanwhile, Vietnam saw a record high of $185 million in the same period.

This economic reality makes the regional push essential. Hong Kong has closed 18 cinemas in two years. Vietnam now has 83 cinemas operated by Korea’s CJ CGV alone.

The initiative represents a fundamental shift in strategy. Hong Kong can no longer rely on its domestic market alone. Its future depends on recapturing its historic role across Asia.

Hong Kong’s film industry is betting its future on this regional comeback. The success of these outreach efforts could determine whether the city’s cinematic flame burns bright again or flickers out entirely.

Thought you’d like to know

Why is Hong Kong focusing on Southeast Asia now?

Local box office revenue has plummeted to a 13-year low. Southeast Asian markets like Vietnam are experiencing record cinema growth. This creates a clear opportunity for expansion.

Which Hong Kong films are being promoted?

The roadshow features recent hits like “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”. It also includes niche titles such as the documentary “Four Trails”. The selection showcases the diversity of modern Hong Kong cinema.

How have audiences responded so far?

Events have drawn large, enthusiastic crowds across multiple cities. Stars report being mobbed by fans in Vietnam. The reception suggests strong latent demand for Hong Kong films.

What was Hong Kong cinema’s peak period?

Its golden era spanned the 1970s to 1990s. The industry produced about 300 films annually at its height. It was famously known as the “Hollywood of the East”.

Who is funding these promotional events?

The Hong Kong Film Development Council and Asian Film Awards Academy are key partners. They cover costs for stars and delegations to attend international festivals. This represents a coordinated industry effort.