Hong Kong Film Awards 2025: “Goodbye UFO” Leads with 10 Nominations as Industry Buzz Builds for the 44th Ceremony
The air in Hong Kong’s film circles is thick with anticipation as the nominations for the 44th Hong Kong Film Awards have been unveiled, setting the stage for what promises to be a vibrant celebration of local cinema. Leading the pack with an impressive ten nominations is the poignant drama Goodbye UFO, a film that has already captured the attention of critics and audiences alike.
“Goodbye UFO”: A Dream Realized and a Critical Darling
The remarkable success of Goodbye UFO at this year’s Hong Kong Film Awards is a testament to its powerful storytelling and artistic merit. The film’s ten nominations span across prestigious categories, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, and several acting and technical achievements, underscoring its comprehensive impact on the cinematic landscape. This strong showing follows its earlier triumph, where it clinched the Best Film Award at the Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards, signaling its significant critical acclaim prior to the Academy’s consideration.
Producer and screenwriter Amy Chin, a key creative force behind Goodbye UFO, expressed her profound surprise and gratitude for the film’s overwhelming recognition. “It turns out that a dream, really can bring out hope!” Chin remarked, reflecting on the challenging yet ultimately rewarding journey of bringing the film to fruition. “Thank you to the industry for their support. It was a tough journey for ‘Goodbye UFO’ to get to where it is today. Thank you to the team and every audience member who told us to ‘keep going.’ We hope everyone will continue to go to the cinema to support ‘Goodbye UFO.’ Hong Kong films need audiences to continue,” she added, emphasizing the vital role of audience engagement in sustaining the local film industry.
The cast of Goodbye UFO has also received well-deserved recognition. Hong Kong actor Wong You Nam has earned a nomination for Best Supporting Actor, a recognition of his compelling performance. Similarly, Michelle Wai is vying for the Best Supporting Actress award, highlighting her significant contribution to the film’s emotional depth. Both actors have shared their excitement about the nominations and are hopeful that audiences will continue to flock to cinemas to experience the film’s narrative.
Shu Qi’s Directorial Debut “Girl” Garners Three Major Creative Nominations
Making a significant splash in her directorial debut, celebrated actress Shu Qi has earned three nominations for her film Girl in key creative categories: Best Director, Best New Director, and Best Screenplay. This achievement marks a powerful transition for Shu Qi, who has long been a formidable presence on screen. Her directorial talents were previously lauded internationally when she won Best Director at the Busan International Film Festival, a victory that firmly established her as a filmmaker of considerable skill and vision. Shu Qi’s return to the Hong Kong film scene in a directorial capacity is being met with immense anticipation, with many eager to see how her unique perspective translates to the screen.
The film Girl, with its focus on a compelling narrative and potentially groundbreaking direction, is poised to be a significant contender in these creative categories. Shu Qi’s ability to transition from acclaimed actress to a respected director is a narrative in itself, showcasing her multifaceted talent and ambition within the film industry.
“Girlfriend”: A Dark Horse Emerges with Breakthrough Performances
Despite its upcoming release on March 5th, the film Girlfriend is already generating considerable buzz, with rising star Elizabeth Tang securing two nominations for her work in her first feature film: Best New Performer and Best Supporting Actress. This recognition positions Girlfriend as a potential dark horse in the awards race, highlighting its ability to discover and nurture new talent.
Tang, clearly overwhelmed and grateful for the nominations, expressed her deep appreciation for the opportunity and the collaborative environment on set. “Thank you everyone! I especially want to thank my co-star Han Ning, and all the crew members! As a new actress, I’m incredibly lucky to have encountered a production team where actors can feel comfortable and at ease!” she shared. “I also sincerely thank director Tracy for choosing to believe in me as someone who doesn’t have a lot of experience. Girlfriend officially releases on March 5th, I hope everyone will support it!” Her words reflect a genuine humility and a profound understanding of the collaborative nature of filmmaking, suggesting that Girlfriend is a film built on strong teamwork and mutual support.
The film’s early recognition for Tang’s performances hints at a story that is not only engaging but also provides a platform for nuanced acting. The success of Girlfriend could signal a new wave of talent making their mark on Hong Kong cinema.
Fala Chen a Strong Contender for Best Actress in “Peg O’ My Heart”
The psychological drama Peg O’ My Heart has garnered four nominations, with its lead actress, Fala Chen, being a frontrunner for the Best Actress Award. Chen’s performance in the film has been widely praised for its emotional depth and complexity, portraying a character navigating significant emotional turmoil throughout the narrative.
Fala Chen expressed her deep emotion and gratitude for this nomination, marking her return to filming a Hong Kong movie after a decade. “It has been 10 years since I have returned to Hong Kong to film a Hong Kong movie. I am deeply moved to receive this nomination,” she stated. “I am very grateful that my Hong Kong colleagues and audiences did not forget about me. I am also very grateful to director Nick Cheung and producer Chung Chun for giving me this opportunity, and to the entire team for making my character have so much depth.” Her words resonate with a sense of homecoming and a profound appreciation for the recognition after a significant period away from her native film industry. The opportunity to collaborate with esteemed figures like director Nick Cheung and producer Chung Chun, coupled with the chance to delve into a character with such intricate emotional layers, has clearly been a deeply fulfilling experience for Chen.
Chen’s return and subsequent nomination highlight the enduring talent and appeal of Hong Kong actors who have explored opportunities abroad. Her performance in Peg O’ My Heart is a powerful reminder of her capabilities and her connection to the Hong Kong film community. The film’s success in securing nominations, particularly for its lead performance and psychological narrative, suggests it offers a compelling cinematic experience that resonates with both critics and the Academy.
The 44th Hong Kong Film Awards ceremony is anticipated to be a night of celebration, recognition, and perhaps a few surprises, as the industry honors its most outstanding achievements of the past year. The diverse range of nominated films, from intimate dramas to psychologically driven narratives and directorial debuts, showcases the continued vitality and evolving landscape of Hong Kong cinema.
