Hong Kong Film Awards fail to show any creativity

Lockdowns have forced the world to cancel most activities and events. But they have also unleashed innovation and creativity.

From synchronised online performances by musicians under home confinement to live-streamed concerts by top singers across the globe, there is a determination to overcome obstacles and pursue excellence despite current adversities. Regrettably, such qualities were woefully lacking in the Hong Kong Films Awards this year.

No one expected to see red carpets and a star-studded auditorium when the so-called Hong Kong Oscars was forced to go online because of the Covid-19 pandemic. But there was no call for banality and half-heartedness. Many who stayed tuned on Wednesday were dismayed to find the celebrated annual event reduced to a perfunctory web presentation.

Donning a tuxedo inside what appeared to be a mini cinema with glamorous lighting, film awards chairman Derek Yee Tung-sing just read out a list of winners in 19 categories. The entire “ceremony” ended in a mere 11 minutes, without showing any other faces, interviews or footage of the award-winning productions. The negative feedback on social media speaks volumes about the public disappointment.

It is a real shame that the hard work of the industry has not been given the recognition and respect it deserves. The awards, which have been going 39 years, may have been a low-key web affair but they could have been more dignified and entertaining.

Unlike previous glitzy ceremonies that met the expectations of fans, there was clearly no effort to wow the audience this time.

Not only did it reflect badly on an industry that goes all out to entertain, but it also failed to do justice to both winners and award hopefuls whose achievements could have been a source of inspiration to others in such challenging times.

The episode does not square with the industry’s international reputation. Creative industries have been touted as a new engine of Hong Kong’s economic growth, but last year’s social unrest and the ongoing pandemic have dealt a double blow to filmmaking and cinemas. However with greater innovation, those industries may still overcome the challenges ahead.