Hong Kong is set to submit Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, a martial arts film exploring the underbelly of the historic Kowloon Walled City, for consideration at the upcoming Academy Awards. The announcement was made by the Hong Kong Motion Picture Industry Association, highlighting the film’s standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival in May.
Directed by Soi Cheang Pou-soi and featuring stars Louis Koo Tin-lok and Raymond Lam Fung, the film is set in the 1980s, shortly before the Walled City’s demolition. It follows a young undocumented immigrant navigating the challenges of the overcrowded enclave, where he encounters both allies and adversaries while defending his new home from rival crime lords.
Since its premiere on May 1, Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In has grossed over HK$105 million (approximately US$13 million). The film was particularly well-received during its midnight screening at Cannes.
The Federation of Motion Film Producers of Hong Kong is permitted to submit one film each year for the Oscars’ Best International Feature category. The selection is determined by votes from committee members, with the film receiving the most support being chosen. Crucindo Hung Cho-sing, the federation’s chairman, noted that Academy rules prevent committee members with conflicts of interest from voting for their own films.
Last year, the federation opted not to submit any entries after deciding that the second runner-up, A Guilty Conscience, would not fairly represent Hong Kong due to a significant vote disparity. The announcement of official contenders for the Oscars will take place on January 17, 2025.
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