Hong Kong — A recent television interview promoting the upcoming film Kung Fu Women’s Football has ignited a heated online debate about cinematic taste, cultural identity, and the fine line between encouragement and emotional pressure. The discussion unfolded after the show’s host, renowned director Stephen Chow, and guests including actress Carina Lau and screenwriter Miss Hunny appeared on the ViuTV program Popcorn Hour on Saturday night.
Following the episode’s broadcast, the show’s host, Gu Dezhao, took to social media to share his personal reflections. In a lengthy post, Gu praised the film as a highly creative work that had inspired his own future projects. He expressed admiration for Stephen Chow’s bold new direction, but also acknowledged that not everyone would share his enthusiasm.
“If you find it appealing, buy a ticket and support it. If not, you won’t even watch it on TV,” Gu wrote. “If you pay for a ticket and find it’s not to your taste, then vent a few complaints. Watching a movie is just for leisure—no need to lose sleep over it. In a free society, like it or ignore it. No need for personal attacks. Let’s all keep a childlike heart and look at the world with curiosity and ease.”
The post received mixed reactions. Some netizens applauded Gu’s sentiment, with comments such as, “I saw it and loved it—simple joy,” and “I wasn’t planning to watch, but your interview made me want to go.” Another user wrote, “I followed you because of this post. The world is too complicated now.”
However, one dissenting voice directly challenged Gu’s consistency. The netizen pointed out that during his radio program On a Clear Day, Gu had criticized those who said Kung Fu Women’s Football “wasn’t made for Hong Kong audiences.” The user argued that Gu had labeled non-viewers as “unfair” or “ignorant of cinema,” and accused him of emotional manipulation.
“Your tone on the radio felt like you were shaming people who didn’t like the film,” the comment read. “It sounded totally opposite to what you’re saying now—that everyone should just follow their own preference.”
Gu responded directly, defending his earlier remarks. He clarified that he never claimed anyone was right or wrong, but urged audiences to “open their arms to the world.” He cited other films such as The Story of the Lychee, Full River Red, and Good Stuff as examples of movies worth trying. He denied mentioning Oppenheimer but acknowledged discussing The Odyssey in the context of whether it was made specifically for Hong Kong viewers.
“I never compared them,” Gu wrote. “I only said I worry that if audiences refuse films for certain reasons, they might miss out. I love Hong Kong’s younger generation. Online headline-chasers twist words for clicks. Please listen to the full archived show before judging.”
The exchange highlights a broader tension in Hong Kong’s film industry: how to balance local identity with global storytelling. Kung Fu Women’s Football, directed by Stephen Chow, has drawn attention for its fusion of sports, martial arts, and comedy—elements the director has long championed. Yet some viewers question whether the film resonates with Hong Kong audiences or caters to a broader mainland Chinese market.
For now, Gu Dezhao’s closing words may serve as a fitting coda: “Keep a childlike heart, and enjoy the world lightly.”
Related: Kung Fu Women’s Football — Stephen Chow Draws Storyboards Himself; Carina Lau Puzzled by ‘Double Eight’ Reference