HONG KONG – Emperor Motion Pictures has officially started production on its 2027 Lunar New Year film, with actress Charlene Choi, known as Ah Sa, taking the lead role. The announcement was made on the company’s social media platforms, where a photo showed Choi holding a clapperboard marked “2027 Lunar New Year Film” inside a kitchen set.
The post read: “2027 Lunar New Year film, officially rolling! Ah Sa is already passionately filming. What role will she use to greet everyone this New Year? The great show is just beginning. More cast members, behind-the-scenes footage, and movie updates will be revealed one by one. Stay tuned!”
Industry sources confirm the film is being produced by Chan Mao-yin, director of the hit drama “Break Through the Darkness,” with direction helmed by Law Yiu-fai. Actor Raymond Lam has been cast as the male lead. While full plot details remain under wraps, insiders report the movie’s theme will revolve around food, tying into the festive atmosphere of the Lunar New Year. The project is expected to be lively and celebratory.
A Recipe for Festive Success
Lunar New Year films are a cherished Hong Kong tradition, often blending comedy, family dynamics, and seasonal good fortune. Emperor Motion Pictures, one of the region’s most prolific studios, has a strong track record with this genre. By centering the story on cuisine, the production taps into a universally relatable subject that resonates with audiences during a holiday focused on reunion and abundance.
Choi, a veteran actress and singer who rose to fame as part of the Cantopop duo Twins, has a broad fan base across Asia. Her previous Lunar New Year appearances have been well-received, and her casting signals the studio’s confidence in attracting both longtime followers and newer viewers.
Behind the Scenes
The production team brings notable credentials. Chan Mao-yin earned critical acclaim for his directorial work on “Break Through the Darkness,” a film that explored themes of resilience and family. His transition to producing a lighter, festive project highlights his versatility. Director Law Yiu-fai is known for his ability to balance visual storytelling with emotional depth.
Raymond Lam, a popular actor and singer, has starred in numerous television dramas and films. His pairing with Choi is expected to generate strong on-screen chemistry, though official details about their characters have not been released.
Industry Implications
The rapid start of production—announced in mid-2024 for a 2027 release—reflects the growing lead time required for high-quality Lunar New Year films, which often involve elaborate sets, celebrity schedules, and marketing campaigns. It also signals confidence in the post-pandemic recovery of Hong Kong’s film industry, which has seen a resurgence of local productions drawing audiences back to theaters.
For fans, the announcement offers an early glimpse of a holiday tradition in the making. As the studio promised, additional cast members and behind-the-scenes content will be released in the coming weeks.
What’s Next
With production now underway, audiences can expect a steady stream of updates. The film’s food-centric theme, combined with its star power and experienced creative team, positions it as a strong contender for the 2027 Lunar New Year box office. For now, the industry watches closely as Hong Kong cinema prepares another feast for the senses.
