From the recently re-broadcasted God of Gamblers movie, to the critically acclaimed A Better Tomorrow directed once again by John Woo, Chow Yun-fat has starred in numerous Hong Kong classics that have inspired countless audiences and industry creators alike. His onscreen looks and character monologues have been mimicked out of admiration, and his most popular films have given rise to many a creative tribute. 

The ’80s was the peak of Chow’s career; the sheer number of films he participated in corresponded with the boom of Hong Kong cinema at the time, many of which went on to become classics representative of the industry’s golden age. Ahead of the new millennium, Chow broke out of the Asian film scene and made his grand debut in the international world. The superstar became a regular at Chinese film premieres and award ceremonies, and could be spotted on Hollywood red carpets flashing smiles at the crowd. And from Shanghai to Tokyo, New York to Los Angeles, Chow has walked every carpet alongside Jasmine Tan — his wife, manager, and greatest supporter.

Translated by Alyanna Raissa J. Payos