Hong Kong actress Jennifer Yu has been making waves in recent years. She was most recently nominated for the Best Actress award at the 60th Golden Horse Awards for her role in In Broad Daylight. In a candid interview, she acknowledged the growing evolution of Hong Kong cinema and the increasing receptivity of audiences for films exploring more niche subjects. According to her, this shift signifies an exciting glimmer of resurgence for the once-overlooked Hong Kong film industry, reflecting the invincible spirit unique to the people of Hong Kong. She believes that this fosters a sense of unity among filmmakers, which could result in even more exciting and innovative projects in the future.
What does Hong Kong mean to you?
I’ve lived in Hong Kong my whole life. Despite the number of people emigrating, many still call this city home. Many parts of Hong Kong are rich in character and sentiment and they hold a special place in my heart. Growing up in Sha Tin has been a privilege for me, as it allowed me to enjoy the beautiful views of the neighbourhood, particularly the serene Shing Mun River. What makes this community even more special are my neighbours, who are incredibly warm and friendly. Their hospitality has added to the welcoming atmosphere of the neighbourhood, and I feel grateful to be a part of it. Meanwhile, Cantonese has its own unique charm, and hearing it spoken brings me a sense of warmth and familiarity. Hong Kongers also have an indomitable spirit! We always adapt to our surroundings, which is a skill honed by our diverse living conditions. In our city, we embrace various ways of life rather than emphasising a single one. Whether it’s on a film set with different crews and co-stars each time, I can always blend in, like a sponge continuously absorbing my surroundings.
What significance does Hong Kong cinema hold for you?
As a child, I was fascinated by Hong Kong cinema. Joe Ma’s romantic films and light-hearted comedies such as Driving Miss Wealthy and La Brassiere were my favourites. These films reflected the modern culture of Hong Kong and embodied the spiritual values of urban dwellers. Even today, I still enjoy watching heartwarming productions like the classic Fly Me to the Moon, where I find inspiration for life and solace to the soul. In the past, there was a plethora of Hong Kong films, with the Troublesome Night series being one of the most popular. Nowadays, it’s rare to see such prolific output. However, filmmakers today are more united and not discouraged by the decline in production and they aspire to bring Hong Kong cinema back to its golden age.
I believe that many Hong Kong movies today are addressing crucial social issues, and one such example is the film In Broad Daylight, which highlights the realities of life in Hong Kong’s nursing homes. Many viewers ask me whether such films will incite real change after its release, but for me the ability to make people understand or realise what is happening in society is, in itself, the power of a movie. I am glad to see that Hong Kong films are gradually transforming; new themes are emerging and the audience has gained confidence in them once again.
What does success mean to you?
Simply stepping out of your comfort zone is often the key to achieving success. With the uncertainty that comes with the industry, it’s easy to find ourselves waiting for opportunities to come our way. However, being proactive in preparing ourselves to overcome challenges is crucial for success. During my third or fourth year in the industry, I considered giving up. In the beginning, there was a lot of acceptance and tolerance for newcomers, but as demands grew, maintaining confidence became more difficult. In this industry, building confidence is an essential factor on the road to success.
How would you describe the film industry today?
The film industry is a highly competitive space with limited opportunities for Hong Kong actors these days. Despite this, many of us continue to work hard and seize opportunities whenever they arise. Fortunately, industry veterans are always willing to pass on their experience, which is immensely valuable for the new generation of actors. In my opinion, the film industry is a place where we can develop our willpower and strength while never losing our passion for the craft.
What do you want to say to the people of Hong Kong?
As David Chiang once said to me in In Broad Daylight, “There’s no need to feel guilty when you’re doing the right thing.”
Translated by Hala Kassem
Photography: Jumbo Tsui
Fashion Director: Jonathan Yee
Makeup Artist: Melody Chiu
Hair Stylist: Ken Hui @ Artify Lab
Creative Producer: Marina Fairfax
Executive Producer: Second Li
Senior Fashion Editor: Kyle Tang
Fashion Assistants: Naoki Li & Mama Yiu
Production Assistant: Jacky Liu
Lighting Direction: Zhang Zhen
Digital Tech: Mu Sheng
Creative Direction: Soya Song @ Pour Lui Creation
Editor
Simon Au
