Leading the Jury with Honesty and Collaboration

As Jury President of the 18th Asian Film Awards, Sammo HUNG shared his approach to the process, emphasising honesty and meaningful discussion. “Film appreciation is deeply subjective; everyone experiences and interprets films differently. As a jury member, I believe expressing opinions honestly shows respect for the creators,” HUNG said. He also highlighted the importance of open dialogue, allowing jury members to exchange perspectives.

“We are PROs!” HUNG said with a confident grin. “After so many years in the industry, one thing I’ve learned is that filmmaking is all about teamwork. Whether creating a film or discussing one as part of the jury, it’s never about one person’s perspective. I listen to my fellow jury members, exchange ideas, and respect everyone’s expertise. I hope the final result would be one that everyone agrees on,” he added.

HUNG further emphasised that the awards focus on showcasing the diversity of Asian cinema, rather than ranking films. “In recent years, Asian filmmakers have delivered extraordinary works,” he shared. “Through the awards, I hope to promote the cultural richness and unique charm of Asian cinema and introduce these exceptional creations to a broader audience.”

An Unexpected Dream: Sammo HUNG’s Vision for Romance Films

Sammo HUNG also shared his insights on filmmaking and his aspirations for the future. When asked which role—director, producer, or actor—he finds most challenging, he admitted, “Directing is the toughest. You need to control every detail on set while achieving the right narrative pacing and effective storytelling.”

Although he has explored many action film genres, HUNG revealed a surprising desire to direct a romance film, calling it “something I’ve never tried before.” In fact, in 1989, he briefly touched on the genre with Eight Taels of Gold, directed by Mabel Cheung. The film follows a Chinese immigrant’s return to his hometown after years in the United States. HUNG starred alongside Sylvia Chang, portraying a relationship that evolves from childhood rivalry to mature love. This role earned HUNG a Best Actor nomination at the 9th Hong Kong Film Awards and remains a classic in his career.

Redefining Action Cinema: Beyond Thrills to Artistic Expression

An expert in action cinema, Sammo HUNG spoke passionately about the depth and artistry of the genre. “Action films are not just about thrilling stunts or fight scenes,” HUNG explained. “Every movement should convey both power and emotion.” He highlighted the genre’s versatility, describing it as a universal language that transcends cultural barriers, blending elements of comedy, suspense, and even romance. “What makes action cinema truly exceptional is its ability to connect audiences worldwide while offering endless creative possibilities,” HUNG shared. He also expressed his aspiration to see more groundbreaking and innovative action films in the future.”