The cast of the Hong Kong crime film “Empty Gun” recently participated in a thank-you tour, sharing personal memories of the 1990s, the decade in which the movie is set. During these events, actors Zhu Yilong, Tan Jianci, Michelle Wai, and Lee Sze Sin reflected on how the era influenced their lives and careers.
Nostalgic Reflections
Zhu Yilong, a mainland Chinese actor, shared that the 1990s were foundational for him. Having grown up watching Hong Kong films, he visited Hong Kong at age 10 and was awed by its vitality. The chance to speak Cantonese in “Empty Gun” felt serendipitous, linking his childhood influences to his current work. Tan Jianci, also from mainland China, attributed his artistic drive to Hong Kong pop culture. The films and music of the 1990s were instrumental in his choice to become an entertainer.
Life in a Pre-Digital Era
Michelle Wai described the 1990s as an age of punctuality and strong memory, where people managed without mobile phones. She recalled a particularly enjoyable filming moment—a party scene after the characters’ first robbery—which fostered a sense of brotherhood among the cast. The decade’s fashion, including denim staples, and diverse film offerings, marked by unconventional themes, also left an impression.
Lee Sze Sin offered a perspective from abroad, having studied overseas during the 1990s. She noted that working with Tan Jianci was a highlight; despite his deliberate pace, he kept up with the local cast. She admitted to nervousness before their first scene but felt satisfied with the result. Her 1990s memories include the lack of internet, which led to more genuine relationships. She valued letter writing for its romantic feel and enjoyed concerts by the Four Heavenly Kings without phone distractions. Simple pleasures like playing marbles and jump rope were cherished.
Enduring Legacy
The “Empty Gun” tour goes beyond promotion—it taps into widespread nostalgia for the 1990s. This era, known for its analog culture and vibrant entertainment, continues to resonate in Hong Kong cinema. For both the cast and audiences, revisiting these memories reinforces the lasting appeal of the decade.
