On November 6, during the Hong Kong Cinema Gala: Vietnam Stop held in Ho Chi Minh City, legendary actor-director Sammo Hung and film star-producer Louis Koo met with local press and film enthusiasts. Their first trip to Vietnam marks the beginning of promising cultural and cinematic exchanges between the two regions.

Sammo Hung admitted that he still has much to learn about Vietnam's history and culture. He expressed a strong desire to observe the local market, understand Vietnamese customs, and get to know the tastes of Vietnamese audiences.

He believes this foundation will help assess how the distinctive Hong Kong filmmaking style can contribute to future collaborations.

Hung emphasized that Hong Kong action cinema has long inspired young filmmakers worldwide.

However, he acknowledged that the way people receive and interpret inspiration varies. Therefore, he believes that Hong Kong action films should be seen as reference books - meant to provide energy, enjoyment, and creative sparks, not rigid formulas.

Having devoted decades to action filmmaking, Sammo Hung said success takes different paths for everyone. Veterans can only share inspiration and experience; each person must think independently and draw their own lessons.

He stressed that learning through reflection and practice is the path to true growth.

Despite being in his 70s, Hung remains passionate about the craft. Last year, he appeared in the film Kowloon Walled City, which gained popularity among Vietnamese audiences.

He was deeply moved watching the production process, noting the director’s leadership and the professionalism of the cast. The film’s success only deepened his love for cinema, and he hopes that future generations will carry on this enthusiasm to share the energy and spirit of filmmaking.

During the trip, Sammo Hung was accompanied by his wife, former Miss Hong Kong 1984, Joyce Godenzi, who also acted in several action films.

When good films fail at the box office

Asked about the lessons learned from both success and failure, Louis Koo candidly shared that even great films sometimes struggle commercially. As a producer, he accepts this reality but emphasized the importance of analyzing why a film may underperform financially.

Hung agreed, noting that this is the age of artificial intelligence and that filmmakers must embrace the technology.

He sees value in using AI in filmmaking if it’s used wisely and deliberately. Still, he warned that AI cannot fully replace human creativity.

“No AI can replicate a Sammo Hung or a Louis Koo,” he joked, reminding audiences that AI, no matter how advanced, is still a human invention.

Koo added that AI is reshaping not just film but the global landscape.

In the short term, it may help reduce production costs, especially in television and film. However, he stressed that acting remains one area where AI is unlikely to match the depth of human emotion. At most, it can assist with visual effects or background details.

The future of Hong Kong cinema

Discussing the challenges facing Hong Kong’s film industry, Hung said he is concerned about shrinking production budgets.

Without adequate funding, it’s increasingly difficult to make films capable of competing at international festivals.

He expressed a desire to reinvigorate Hong Kong cinema, increase revenue, and ensure that both action films and production companies have the financial resources to thrive.

“A healthy box office allows filmmakers to continue creating even better stories,” he said.

Louis Koo emphasized the need for international cooperation. However, he noted that cross-cultural collaborations require deeper communication and understanding among directors and actors.

Regarding Hong Kong’s film education programs, Sammo Hung said the city is an open, welcoming place for aspiring filmmakers.

He stressed that training programs aren’t limited to local talent and are open to young directors from other countries.

When asked about his iconic role as Yang Guo in The Return of the Condor Heroes and his on-screen chemistry with actress Carman Lee, Louis Koo thanked Vietnamese audiences for their continued love for the classic.

He revealed that the two stars appeared together in a commercial last year that was well received but confirmed there are no new joint projects currently in the works.

As for Sammo Hung, despite experiencing some knee discomfort in recent years, he remains mentally sharp and determined to keep making movies that inspire audiences.

Minh Dung