Bowling over Busan

Hong Kong's film and TV personalities won big at the 27th Busan International Film Festival. And this might only be the beginning of a major turnaround for the local film industry, writes Mathew Scott.

If evidence was needed that the Hong Kong entertainment industry is slowly — but surely — emerging into the light after the darkness of the past few years, then look to the recently concluded 27th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) and how things played out on the ground at the premier event of its kind in Asia.

There was excitement surrounding films being produced by and with the city's talent. There was big news about future directions being taken. And then there was Ling Man-lung, front and center, as he collected the Rising Star prize at the festival's Asia Contents Awards (ACAs).

Individually, it was a reward for the 36-year-old's portrayal of plucky entrepreneur Shun in the hit ViuTV series In Geek We Trust as well as recognition of the years he had spent crafting his trade. But the actor was quick to share the success.

"I think it (the award) is meaningful not only for me but also for the new generation of filmmakers, directors, film writers, actors, actresses and professionals," he says.