Hong Kong actor says production aims to reunite original stage cast, with shooting slated for late October
Hong Kong boy band MIRROR’s captain Lokman Yeung has confirmed that acclaimed actor Andy Lau is bankrolling and producing a film adaptation of the hit stage play The Story of That Turtle’s Return, with veteran director Herman Yau attached to helm the project for a 2027 Chinese New Year release.
Lokman, who stars in the theatrical production alongside Yumiko Yuen, Leung Chung-hang, Wong Yiu-cho and Wu Ling-ying, revealed the news during a media interview on Thursday. The stage play enjoyed a successful run of 18 performances in May, drawing celebrity attendees including Lau, Dayo Wong and Sandra Ng.
The MIRROR leader disclosed that discussions about the film version have been underway since the play’s theatrical run, with Lau personally expressing interest in the story and engaging in talks with screenwriter Yuen Wan-shan.
“We had planned to make the announcement once things were more settled, but at least now everyone knows Mr. Lau is investing and director Yau is helming it,” Lokman said. “We’ve been following this closely and hope to bring back the entire original stage cast. The script and details are still being worked out, with filming tentatively scheduled to begin in late October or November.”
Lokman acknowledged that translating the stage production to cinema presents unique challenges, noting that the cast feels both excitement and apprehension about the transition.
“The script is different and the performance style changes,” he explained. “In the stage version, we used a home setting, which was relatively straightforward to handle. But for the film, we’re questioning whether we should stick exclusively to the domestic setting or incorporate different elements. Everyone is thinking about this.”
The singer-actor also faces a demanding schedule ahead, balancing MIRROR’s upcoming concert tour with the film shoot before year’s end.
Regarding the possibility of Lau making a cameo appearance, Lokman said nothing has been confirmed but expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of collaborating with the veteran star.
“It’s a rare opportunity, and of course I’d love to work with Mr. Lau,” he said. “I attended one of his stage productions before and we’ve spoken, but we’ve never worked together.”
On the topic of participating in his first Lunar New Year film, Lokman joked that he’s already picturing the experience of attending post-screening thanks-giving events during the holiday period.
“I really want to experience the atmosphere and excitement of promoting a film during the New Year season,” he said with a laugh. “Everyone’s in a festive mood, and who knows, I might even receive some red packets.”
The film adaptation marks the latest crossover from stage to screen in Hong Kong’s entertainment industry, as producers increasingly look to successful theatrical properties for cinematic ventures. With Lau’s star power behind the project and Yau’s track record in commercial filmmaking, industry observers will be watching closely how this stage-to-screen transition unfolds.
