Filmart 2023: 5 Must-See Films Making Waves in Hong Kong

The 29th Edition of Hong Kong Filmart: A Vibrant Return to Form

This year, the 29th edition of Hong Kong Filmart commenced on Monday, filling the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) with a lively crowd, reminiscent of the event’s pre-pandemic atmosphere.

As The Hollywood Reporter participated in this bustling event, the team engaged with attendees and navigated the vast exhibition space to identify the films generating the most excitement among industry professionals and audiences alike. Here are the top five standout features that captured attention at Filmart this year.

1. Valley of the Shadow of Death (Hong Kong)

Renowned actor Anthony Wong, known for his roles in iconic films such as Infernal Affairs and Still Human, returns in a gripping story that plays into his strengths as a performer. In Valley of the Shadow of Death, Wong portrays a pastor grappling with the devastating impact of his daughter’s death and confronts her murderer. This compelling narrative prompts the question: will he uphold his faith or succumb to revenge? The film is co-directed by emerging talents Jeffrey Lam and Antonio Tam.

Sales Agent: Golden Scene

2. The Ugly (South Korea)

Director Yeon Sang-ho, who gained global recognition for the blockbuster Train to Busan, blends action and drama in The Ugly. After his animated film The King of Pigs showcased his storytelling prowess, Yeon adapts his own graphic novel in this film. The plot follows a young man, played by Park Jeong-min, as he delves into his father’s mysterious past, uncovering unsettling family secrets.

Sales Agent: Plus M

3. 96 Minutes (Taiwan)

With an estimated production budget of $4.5 million, 96 Minutes is generating substantial buzz. Directed by the acclaimed Hung Tzu-Hsuan, this action-thriller features a classic race-against-time narrative centered around a bomb on a high-speed train traveling between Taipei and Kaohsiung. The film boasts prominent Taiwanese actors Austin Lin and Vivian Sung in leading roles.

Sales Agent: Wowing Entertainment Group

4. A Mighty Adventure (Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia)

This year, the HKIFF Industry Project Market program has placed a special emphasis on animation, and among the anticipated offerings is A Mighty Adventure. Directed by Toe Yeun, known for the critically acclaimed My Life as McDull, this co-production from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia follows the journey of a grasshopper, a spider, and a butterfly as they strive to shape their own destinies.

Inquiries: Zero One Film, Flystudio

5. Dead Tide (Malaysia)

Dead Tide stands out among the financing showcases at Filmart, showcasing the creative collaboration of multi-award-winning actress and producer Lee Sinje, alongside veteran producer-director Jin Ong. Director Kethsvin Chee draws from personal childhood experiences to create a poignant rural tale about two lonely individuals who find solace and redemption in each other’s company.

Inquiries: Fast Forward Films

For more information and images from Hong Kong Filmart 2025, visit the Hollywood Reporter.