Hong Kong Film Gala returns to Malaysia with six acclaimed features

Writer: Heidi Hsia

Malaysia celebrates Hong Kong cinema's creative journey

11 Sep - Following the success of the Bangkok edition, the Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation now travels to Malaysia, featuring six acclaimed Hong Kong films: "My First of May" (Opening Film), "Fight for Tomorrow", "Good Game", "Four Trails", "True Love, For Once in My Life", and a special re-screening of Aaron Kwok's 2019 performance in "I'm Livin' It".

Organised by the Asian Film Awards Academy (AFAA), co-presented with Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) and distributor GSC Movies (GSCM), and supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), the Film Development Fund, and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Jakarta, the Gala will take place from 20 to 28 September 2025 at the Aurum Theatre, The Exchange TRX.

This year's Gala continues under AFAA's new motto "Together We Dare", with Kuala Lumpur's focus on "To Endeavour". The theme highlights filmmaking as a collective act of perseverance - whether by directors, actors, or action choreographers - all striving together to bring stories to the big screen.

Aaron Kwok in "My First of May"

Aaron Kwok will attend the Opening Ceremony and the post-screening talk of "My First of May", a heartfelt drama about a father reconciling with his daughter who is suffering from a rare disease.

The actor shares, "I'm so happy that 'My First of May' is the Opening Film in the Kuala Lumpur stop. Malaysian audiences have always been supportive of Hong Kong films, especially realistic stories with strong emotions. This film is about a fallen athlete learning to take responsibility for his family, and I believe it will touch audiences deeply."

Aaron Kwok will also join audiences for the re-screening of "I'm Livin' It", which earned him a Best Actor nomination at the Hong Kong Film Awards.

Aaron Kwok in "I'm Livin' It"

Rising actor Locker Lam, praised for his role as a boxer in "Fight for Tomorrow", expressed his excitement to meet Malaysian fans and share the film's spirit of struggle and hope, while award-winning director Robin Lee brings his documentary "Four Trails", which chronicles the resilience of trail runners in Hong Kong.

He noted, "We aimed to make a film that would connect with a wide audience - from trail runners to sports fans, movie enthusiasts, and everyone in between. There's a story in there for everyone! I'm really excited to share the thrill of the Four Trails with audiences in Malaysia and beyond."

Action directors MJ Chan and Ken Law will represent "Fight for Tomorrow" and "Good Game", discussing how Hong Kong's unique action traditions are evolving while remaining true to their roots.

"Fight for Tomorrow"

"Good Game"

The Gala will also feature a series of university talks at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TARUMT).

Robin Lee and James Hung will lead "Storytelling Across Documentary and Drama", exploring different approaches to narrative. Action choreographers MJ Chan and Ken Law will join forces in "Action Choreographer Designs Dialogue", highlighting the craft of Hong Kong's action cinema.

The spotlight will fall on Aaron Kwok in "Infinite Horizon of Artistry", where the actor will reflect on his artistic journey from stage to screen, offering students an inspiring perspective on perseverance and growth.

Locker Lam will meet Malaysian fans

An exhibition, "Weaving Dreams: Artistry in Film", will also run from 20 September to 2 October at the Aurum Theatre, featuring a curated showcase of texts, music, and visuals drawn from the six participating films.

As part of the cross-disciplinary project "Together We Dare to Crossover", Hong Kong illustrator Toballki (@toballkidrawing) has designed exclusive souvenirs, drawing inspiration from Hong Kong cinema.

Josie Lin, Executive Director of AFAA, said: "We hope the Kuala Lumpur edition shows audiences the diverse faces of Hong Kong cinema. From opening films to forums and exhibitions, every element is connected by the spirit of 'Endeavour,' presenting a full journey of creativity and perseverance."

Tickets go on sale from 11 September. For details, please visit the GSC official website, Facebook page, or mobile app.