Cinema audiences were searched for recording devices ahead of first-night screenings of the uncut version of Lust, Caution.
Chan Wai-chu, marketing manager of distributor Edko Films, said: 'This is the first time we have conducted checks on an audience to see if its members have any video recording devices.
'We also ask them to turn off their phones before entering theatres.'
The movie, directed by Taiwan-born Ang Lee and set in Shanghai during the second world war, won the Golden Lion at this month's Venice Film Festival. It stars Tang Wei and Tony Leung Chiu-wai.
About 100 Edko staff and security guards were on patrol at 35 cinemas.
Miss Chan said: 'If anyone is caught illegally recording the film, we will report it to the Customs and Excise Department at once.'
