Hong Kong has long been a city where commerce and culture intersect, but in recent years, the government has placed a renewed emphasis on the development of its cultural and creative industries. Recognizing the deep connection between cultural production and tourism, officials have outlined strategies to enhance Hong Kong’s “soft power” and drive the growth of the creative industries. From digital entertainment to music, television, film, publishing, and design, various support initiatives aim to encourage local talent, sustain creative output, and boost international visibility.

Nowhere is this resurgence more evident than in Hong Kong’s film industry. After a challenging period of decline, local cinema has made an emphatic comeback, proving its commercial and artistic viability. In 2023, A Guilty Conscience became the first Hong Kong film to surpass HK$100 million ($12.74 million) at the box office, grossing HK$115 million. The momentum continued in 2024, when Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In earned HK$112.9 million and was selected for the Midnight Screening section of the official selection at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. By the end of the year, The Last Dance shattered records with HK$150 million, becoming the highest-grossing Cantonese-language film in Hong Kong history. These successes have reinvigorated the local market and demonstrated that Hong Kong cinema still holds global appeal.

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At its peak in the 1980s and 1990s, Hong Kong’s film industry was one of the most prolific in the world, producing hundreds of films annually and gaining international recognition. Stars, directors and action choreographers became household names far beyond the city’s borders. But the industry faltered in the 2000s, facing challenges such as a shrinking local audience, rising production costs, and competition from Hollywood and the Chinese mainland. For years, many doubted whether Hong Kong cinema could ever reclaim its former influence.

Today, as audiences increasingly seek fresh narratives beyond Hollywood’s formulaic blockbusters, Hong Kong has a rare opportunity to reposition itself on the global stage. The recent success of homegrown films highlights the city’s unique storytelling potential. Local productions, rich in cultural identity, resonate not only with Hong Kong audiences but also with international viewers who crave authentic, compelling narratives.

One of the biggest advantages Hong Kong filmmakers have is the city’s distinct cultural blend — a fusion of East and West, tradition and modernity. Stories set in Hong Kong’s urban landscapes, historical sites and vibrant neighborhoods create a visual and narrative identity that sets the city’s films apart. The international reception of Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In — a film deeply rooted in Hong Kong’s history — demonstrates that films with strong local identities can find global audiences.

To sustain this momentum, innovation is crucial. The film industry thrives on creativity, and Hong Kong must continue to develop new storytelling approaches, adopt emerging technologies, and embrace fresh talent. As some filmmakers have noted, even global pop culture phenomena like Japan’s Dragon Ball draw inspiration from classic literature (Journey to the West). Similarly, Hong Kong’s rich history and folklore offer a wealth of material for future films.

Collaboration will also be key. The city’s film sector can benefit from coproductions with the mainland, leveraging resources while maintaining the distinct voice that sets Hong Kong cinema apart. Additionally, strategic partnerships with international studios, streaming platforms, and distribution networks can help Hong Kong films reach wider audiences.

Another shift in the global film landscape plays to Hong Kong’s advantage. Hollywood, long the dominant force in global cinema, has struggled in recent years, with rising production costs, audience fatigue, and fewer innovative ideas. Meanwhile, Asian films — whether from South Korea, Japan, or the Chinese mainland — have gained international recognition for their originality and cultural depth. Viewers worldwide are now more open to non-English films, thanks in part to streaming platforms that break down traditional language barriers.

This changing dynamic presents an opportunity for Hong Kong to reclaim its position as a major cultural exporter. Recent hits like The Last Dance prove that audiences are eager for well-crafted films that balance entertainment with deeper cultural narratives. When executed well, these films transcend language and geography, proving that good storytelling knows no borders.

As China continues to emphasize its “cultural export” strategy, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is uniquely positioned to play a leading role. With its international outlook, bilingual capabilities, and historical reputation as a cinematic powerhouse, the city can serve as a cultural bridge, introducing Chinese-language films to global audiences.

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However, the film industry’s resurgence cannot be taken for granted. Sustaining this revival will require continued investment, government support, and — most importantly — a commitment to bold, innovative filmmaking. Hong Kong has the talent, the legacy and the global recognition. The question now is whether it can seize this moment to cement its place once again as a global film powerhouse. If the past two years are any indication, the answer may well be yes.

The author is chairman of the Asia MarTech Society and sits on the advisory boards of several professional organizations, including two universities.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.