China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 51 Week of 19 May 2025
(1) Hong Kong’s Grand Ocean Cinema to Close Down after 56 years of Making Memories
The iconic Grand Ocean Cinema in Tsim Sha Tsui will permanently close on 2 June, marking another major loss for Hong Kong’s struggling cinema industry.
(2) Edison Chen Premieres Philosophical Short Film “I Saw It First” at CAFEAO with Exclusive Fan Experience
Edison Chen’s new art short film “I Saw It First” is exclusively screening at his Taipei café CAFEAO, blending personal storytelling with philosophical themes.
(3) Malaysia’s Melaka Hails Fan Bingbing as Chinese Tourists Flock to State
Fan Bingbing’s role as Melaka’s tourism ambassador has driven over 1.5 billion digital impressions on WeChat and significantly increased Chinese tourist arrivals to the Malaysian state.
(4) Zhang Ziyi’s “The Murderer” to Open 27th Shanghai International Film Festival as City Prepares for a Grand Cinematic Celebration
The 27th Shanghai International Film Festival will open on 13 June with Peter Chan’s “The Murderer” starring Zhang Ziyi, unveiling a star-studded lineup and immersive citywide events.
(5) Daniel Wu’s First Livestream Sells Out English Courses, Earning Over 8 Million Yuan in One Night
Actor Daniel Wu’s debut livestream promoting his English courses generated over 8.75 million yuan in sales within 40 minutes, highlighting the powerful blend of celebrity influence and online education.
(6) Hong Kong singer Fiona Sit Criticised for Shenzhen Concert Outfit
Fiona Sit’s recent Shenzhen concert drew mixed reactions as her bold outfit choices stirred online backlash, despite her energetic performance and warm fan interactions.
(7) Donnie Yen Shines at Cannes, Declares Chinese Action Films Will Always Be in Style
Appearing at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, Donnie Yen reaffirmed the global influence and enduring appeal of Chinese action cinema, while championing positive values and cultural pride in film.
(8) “Twilight of the Warriors” Exhibition to Sustain Heritage Tourism in Hong Kong
A new three-year exhibition recreating sets from the hit film “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In” at Kowloon Walled City Park is set to boost tourism by blending cinematic nostalgia with immersive cultural storytelling.
(9) Tony Leung and Juno Mak premiere “Sons of the Neon Night” at Cannes Film Festival
Hong Kong’s long-awaited dystopian crime thriller “Sons of the Neon Night” made its global debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, marking the end of a decade-long production journey.
(10) Jimmy O. Yang’s Hong Kong tickets resell at up to 140% mark-up
Jimmy O. Yang’s additional stand-up shows in Hong Kong sold out in under an hour, sparking fan frustration over long queues and ticket scalping with mark-ups exceeding 140%.
(11) Japanese Star Kōki Charms Hong Kong in Promotional Video for HKTB
Japanese rising star Kōki stars in a new promotional video for the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and inspiring a new generation of travelers.
(12) Renowned Chinese Actress Zhu Yuanyuan Passes Away at 51 After Battle with Cancer
Beloved Chinese actress Zhu Yuanyuan has passed away at the age of 51 after a nearly five-year battle with cancer, remembered for her resilience, warmth, and acclaimed performances across film, television, and theatre.
(1) Hong Kong’s Grand Ocean Cinema to Close Down after 56 years of Making Memories
(Photo Credit: Edmond So)
Grand Ocean Cinema, a 56-year-old landmark in Tsim Sha Tsui, will close its doors for good on 2 June 2025, following the expiration of its tenancy contract. Operator Golden Harvest announced the closure on social media, calling the venue a cherished part of Hong Kong’s cinematic history that has accompanied generations of moviegoers. To mark the occasion, the cinema will host a special “blind-box” movie night on 1 June, featuring surprise classic films and discounted food and merchandise.
This closure marks the fourth Golden Harvest cinema to shut down since April 2024, following the closures of its Kai Tak, V Walk, and Whampoa branches. The chain now operates only five cinemas, primarily in Kowloon and the New Territories. The announcement sparked an outpouring of nostalgia online, with many Hongkongers sharing fond memories of watching iconic films like Star Wars and Ghost at the Grand Ocean.
The closure reflects a broader trend in Hong Kong’s cinema industry, which has seen at least nine theatres shut down since 2024. Despite a few local box office hits, total cinema revenue dropped to HK$1.34 billion last year—the lowest in 13 years—falling short of the HK$2 billion needed for the industry to break even, according to insiders.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3311271/hong-kongs-grand-ocean-cinema-close-down-after-56-years-making-memories?module=top_story&pgtype=homepage
(2) Edison Chen Premieres Philosophical Short Film “I Saw It First” at CAFEAO with Exclusive Fan Experience
(Photo Credit: CAFEAO)
Edison Chen has launched an exclusive screening of his latest art short film “I Saw It First” at his newly opened café, CAFEAO, in Taipei’s Minsheng Community. Co-created with longtime friend and UK-based director Vernie Yeung, the 12-minute film is a hybrid of cinema and video art, featuring a fictionalized version of Chen in dialogue with an AI. The narrative explores philosophical questions about truth, perception, and identity, drawing comparisons to series like “Black Mirror” and “Love, Death & Robots”.
Originally conceived as part of a personal retrospective exhibition that never materialized, the film evolved into a standalone project. Yeung, known for directing music videos for artists like Kylie Minogue and Eason Chan, based the concept on Chen’s life story. Chen, who delivers a raw and emotionally intense performance, said many of the lines reflect his personal reflections and experiences. He emphasized that acting remains his greatest passion, beyond fashion, music, or business.
The screening is part of a limited-time event running through 21 May. Visitors who spend NT$800 or more at CAFEAO and follow its official Instagram account can register to watch the film in a specially designed viewing room and receive a limited-edition T-shirt. Chen hopes the project encourages viewers to reflect on their own perceptions and the influence of social media, making the film both a personal expression and a call for independent thought.
News Source: https://www.gq.com.tw/article/i-saw-it-first-vernie-yeung-edison-chen-cafeao
(3) Malaysia’s Melaka Hails Fan Bingbing as Chinese Tourists Flock to State
(Photo Credit: Instagram/bingbing_fan)
Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has been credited with significantly boosting tourism in Malaysia’s Melaka state through her role as a tourism ambassador. According to Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh, Fan’s appointment in conjunction with Visit Melaka Year 2024 led to over 1.5 billion digital impressions on China’s WeChat platform, surpassing even major events like the Shanghai International Film Festival. The achievement was officially recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records as the largest digital hit for Malaysian tourism on WeChat using a celebrity ambassador.
Ab Rauf praised the campaign as a strategic success in attracting Chinese tourists and elevating Melaka’s global profile. He noted that Fan Bingbing’s influence had sparked an “extraordinary wave of interest,” helping to position the historic city as a must-visit destination. The digital campaign’s success has translated into real-world results, with Chinese tourist arrivals rising from 204,818 in 2023 to 664,687 in 2024—a 22.64% increase.
The chief minister emphasized that the campaign’s success highlights the power of celebrity-driven digital marketing in tourism. Fan Bingbing’s involvement not only enhanced Melaka’s visibility but also demonstrated how strategic partnerships can drive international engagement and economic growth through tourism.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3310560/malaysias-melaka-hails-fan-bingbing-chinese-tourists-flock-state
(4) Zhang Ziyi’s “The Murderer” to Open 27th Shanghai International Film Festival as City Prepares for a Grand Cinematic Celebration
(Photo Credit: Shanghai Observer)
The 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) is set to run from 13 to 22 June, followed by the 30th Shanghai TV Festival from 23 to 27 June. At a press conference in Beijing, organizers announced that Peter Chan’s highly anticipated film “The Murderer,” starring Zhang Ziyi, will open the festival with a special citywide screening on 14 June. Italian director Giuseppe Tornatore will chair the Golden Goblet Awards jury, which includes 21 members from 13 countries, marking the festival’s most youthful and diverse panel to date.
This year’s SIFF and TV Festival will feature immersive experiences across Shanghai, including themed markets, interactive screenings, and international showcases. The festival will also commemorate major milestones: the 130th anniversary of global cinema, the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema, and the 30th edition of the TV festival. Highlights include the “Belt and Road” Film Week, the Italian Film Week, and a special tribute to Jane Austen’s 250th birthday in collaboration with the BBC. Ticket sales begin 5 June via Damai and Taopiaopiao platforms.
With over 3,900 film submissions from 119 countries, this year’s SIFF Golden Goblet Awards boast a record-breaking 80% world and international premiere rate. The festival continues to support emerging talent through its “6+1” development model, expanding its youth-focused SIFF YOUNG program and launching new initiatives for genre films and vertical video. The integrated International Film and TV Market will also debut a new “International Zone,” promoting cross-border collaboration and showcasing cutting-edge ultra-high-definition content.
News Source: https://www.jfdaily.com/staticsg/res/html/web/newsDetail.html?id=913699
(5) Daniel Wu’s First Livestream Sells Out English Courses, Earning Over 8 Million Yuan in One Night
(Photo Credit: Weibo@吳彥祖)
On 21 May, actor Daniel Wu hosted his first-ever livestream to promote a series of English language courses, drawing massive attention and sales. Within just 40 minutes, his 398-yuan course had sold over 3,300 sets, pushing total sales past 1.34 million yuan. By the end of the night, more than 22,000 sets had been sold, with total revenue exceeding 8.75 million yuan. As of the following morning, all course-related products in his livestream store had sold out.
Wu launched his “Daniel Wu Teaches English” initiative in March, releasing videos across platforms and positioning himself as a conversational English coach. His courses combine pre-recorded lessons featuring Wu, Chinese-language explanations, and AI-powered speaking practice. While the campaign has sparked excitement, some users expressed concerns over the limited screen time of Wu in the lessons and the AI’s lack of video interaction, suggesting the celebrity presence may be more of a marketing hook than a core feature.
Despite the criticism, many see Wu’s venture as a bold and innovative fusion of celebrity branding and the knowledge economy. Analysts note that the integration of AI, scenario-based learning, and star power could reshape online education, offering a more engaging and personalized experience for learners while opening new commercial avenues for public figures.
News Source: https://www.jiemian.com/article/12809162.html
(6) Hong Kong singer Fiona Sit Criticised for Shenzhen Concert Outfit
(Photo credit: Rednote@安琪電影Pasta)
Hong Kong singer Fiona Sit found herself at the center of controversy following her concert in Shenzhen on 20 May. Her daring stage outfits, particularly a silver tube top and ultra-short skirt, drew sharp criticism from netizens who described the look as “vulgar” and compared it to “wearing a diaper.” The backlash sparked widespread debate online, with some questioning whether her stylist was intentionally undermining her image.
Despite the fashion uproar, Sit delivered a high-energy performance that impressed many in attendance. Her dynamic stage presence and commitment to entertaining the crowd were widely praised, especially by fans and celebrity attendees. While social media buzz focused heavily on her wardrobe, her artistry and professionalism still shone through during the show.
After the concert, Sit met with fans at a post-show event, where she played games and shared heartfelt moments with attendees. Her warm and humble demeanor won over the crowd, and when fans hinted at celebrating her birthday on 11 August, she responded playfully, reminding them it was still early in the year. The event ended on a high note, reinforcing her strong connection with her supporters.
(7) Donnie Yen Shines at Cannes, Declares Chinese Action Films Will Always Be in Style
(Photo Credit: Tencent)
Donnie Yen made a striking appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival on 15 May, drawing enthusiastic cheers from fans and photographers alike. Dressed in a sleek black Versace suit and accompanied by his wife, Yen walked the red carpet with grace and charm, pausing to interact warmly with fans. As a leading figure in Chinese action cinema, Yen has long been a global ambassador for martial arts films, bringing Chinese kung fu to international audiences through both domestic hits and Hollywood blockbusters.
In interviews during Cannes’ “China Night” kung fu forum, Yen emphasized that Chinese action films remain a powerful cultural force. He dismissed claims that the genre is fading, noting that many popular films worldwide are influenced by kung fu. He also stressed the importance of films conveying positive values—patriotism, family, and justice—principles he upholds in his own work. Yen’s iconic roles in the “Ip Man” series and Hollywood films like “Rogue One” have helped elevate Chinese martial arts on the global stage.
Looking ahead, Yen is set to direct and star in “Ballerina: The Book of Caine,” a spin-off of the “John Wick” franchise, making him the first Asian actor to take on both roles in a major Hollywood production. Beyond acting, he is committed to mentoring the next generation of action stars through his “Zhen Family Team,” whose members have contributed to major Chinese films like “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In and The Wandering Earth”.
News Source: https://news.qq.com/rain/a/20250516A092CW00
(8) “Twilight of the Warriors” Exhibition to Sustain Heritage Tourism in Hong Kong
(Photo Credit: Dickson Lee)
Hong Kong is set to launch a three-year exhibition at Kowloon Walled City Park, featuring replica sets from the blockbuster film “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”. Opening this month, the exhibition will recreate 1980s life in the Walled City with immersive displays such as barber shops and tea stalls, offering visitors a nostalgic journey through one of the city’s most iconic historical sites. The initiative is part of a broader effort to revitalize Kowloon City as a key tourist destination, supported by the government’s “City in Time Project,” which will use augmented reality to showcase the district’s rich past, including the Walled City and Kai Tak Airport.
The exhibition builds on the film’s massive success, which grossed HK$107 million locally and 500 million yen in Japan, becoming the highest-grossing Hong Kong film there in two decades. Tourism experts and filmmakers believe the exhibition will attract international visitors, particularly from Japan, who are eager to explore the real-life setting behind the movie. Producer John Chong emphasized the cultural significance of the Walled City and its enduring appeal through cinema, noting that sequels and prequels are in development.
Local tour operators and officials see the exhibition as a powerful storytelling tool that enhances cultural tourism. Paul Chan of Walk in Hong Kong highlighted how the immersive experience and AR technology will deepen visitors’ understanding of the area’s history. District councillor Cheung King-fan added that nearby attractions like Kai Tak Sports Park and the promenade will further enrich the visitor experience, making Kowloon City a vibrant hub for heritage, film, and community engagement.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3311277/twilight-warriors-exhibition-sustain-heritage-tourism-hong-kong?module=top_story&pgtype=homepage
(9) Tony Leung and Juno Mak premiere “Sons of the Neon Night” at Cannes Film Festival
(Photo Credit: Xinhua News)
After more than a decade in the making, “Sons of the Neon Night,” a dystopian crime thriller from Hong Kong, premiered globally at the 78th Cannes Film Festival on 17 May. Directed and written by Juno Mak, the film features an ensemble cast including Tony Leung Ka-fai, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Sean Lau, Louis Koo, and Gao Yuanyuan. Set in a fictional, snow-covered version of Hong Kong, the story follows the turmoil that erupts after the death of a pharmaceutical tycoon, as his youngest son attempts to break away from the family’s criminal empire. The film was showcased in the festival’s Midnight Screenings section, drawing attention for its ambitious scope and striking visuals.
Tony Leung, reflecting on the film’s long journey since wrapping in 2017, shared that rewatching it offered him a fresh perspective on both his character and the narrative. Director Juno Mak explained that the extended production timeline was largely due to the film’s heavy reliance on CGI and the challenge of creating a wintry Hong Kong setting, with 80% of the snow effects produced on set. The cast endured extreme weather conditions, filming in both Hong Kong’s summer heat and South Korea’s freezing winter. The film’s score was composed by the late Ryuichi Sakamoto, whose creative input Mak described as deeply inspiring.
Both Mak and Leung used the Cannes platform to advocate for the importance of the theatrical experience in an era dominated by streaming. They emphasized the unique communal atmosphere of cinemas, where audiences can collectively engage with a filmmaker’s vision. Leung described the cinema as a space where people “breathe together,” sharing in the emotional and artistic journey of a story. Their remarks served as a passionate reminder of the enduring power of cinema to connect people through shared storytelling.
(10) Jimmy O. Yang’s Hong Kong tickets resell at up to 140% mark-up
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Comedian Jimmy O. Yang’s two newly added stand-up shows in Hong Kong were snapped up in less than an hour on 20 May, triggering a wave of complaints from fans who struggled to secure tickets. Many described the experience as even more difficult than getting seats for global pop stars like Lady Gaga. Ticket prices ranged from HK$380 to HK$780, but scalpers quickly began reselling them online for up to HK$1,895 each—more than double the original cost.
The ticketing platform Urbtix saw overwhelming demand, with over 40,000 people in the queue at one point and some users reporting waitlists of more than 83,000. Yang, who was born in Hong Kong and moved to the U.S. at age 13, had already sold out his first two shows on 13 and 14 June, prompting the addition of two more on 15 June at the Hong Kong Coliseum. The overwhelming demand reflects both his popularity and the rarity of his performances in Asia.
Fans took to social media to vent their frustration over the chaotic ticketing process and the prevalence of scalpers. The Consumer Council has previously warned against buying from unofficial resellers, citing risks such as ticket fraud and delivery issues. Yang’s shows, dubbed a “homecoming,” mark his first performances in his birthplace and have clearly struck a chord with local audiences.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3311047/guess-how-much-jimmy-o-yangs-hong-kong-tickets-resell-140-mark
(11) Japanese Star Kōki Charms Hong Kong in Promotional Video for HKTB
(Photo Credit: The Standard)
Japanese model and actress Kōki, daughter of actor Takuya Kimura, recently visited Hong Kong to film a promotional video for the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB). Sharing her experience on Instagram, Kōki expressed her fondness for the city, calling it a place full of inspiration and discovery. The HKTB also released the video on its official social media, inviting viewers to follow Kōki’s journey as an “inspiration hunter” through Hong Kong’s iconic neighborhoods.
In the video, Kōki explores Central and Sheung Wan, riding the historic “Ding Ding” tram and visiting cultural landmarks like Tai Kwun and PMQ. With a film camera in hand, she reflects on the artistic energy of the city, imagining herself as part of the artwork she encounters. Her journey ends with a scenic ride aboard the traditional Aqua Luna junk boat, taking in the dazzling night views of Victoria Harbour.
The campaign aims to highlight Hong Kong’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences through Kōki’s youthful and artistic lens. With over 20,000 likes on her Instagram post, the video has sparked excitement among fans, some even suggesting the HKTB invite her famous mother, Shizuka Kudo, and sister, Cocomi, for future collaborations.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/japanese-star-koki-charms-hong-kong-in-promotional-video-for-hktb/
(12) Renowned Chinese Actress Zhu Yuanyuan Passes Away at 51 After Battle with Cancer
(Photo Credit: Yahoo)
Veteran Chinese actress Zhu Yuanyuan passed away on 17 May 2025, at the age of 51, following a nearly five-year battle with cancer. Her husband, actor Xin Baiqing, announced her passing in a heartfelt obituary, praising her unwavering strength, confidence, and warmth throughout her illness. Zhu, a graduate of the Central Academy of Drama and a first-class actress at the National Theatre of China, was widely respected for her talent and grace both on and off screen.
Zhu’s career spanned nearly three decades, with standout roles in acclaimed productions such as “The Happy Life of Talkative Zhang Damin,” “Romantic Matters,” “The Forest Ranger,” “A Little Red Flower for You,” and “Sister”. She earned numerous accolades, including the Golden Eagle Award, the Flying Apsaras Award, and the Golden Rooster Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her final performance was in the yet-to-be-aired drama “The City Builder,” which she promoted on social media just weeks before her passing.
Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues alike, with many expressing disbelief and sorrow. Director Tian Qinxin and actor Liang Guanhua, her co-star in “The Happy Life of Talkative Zhang Damin,” remembered her for her intelligence, humor, and enduring charm. Zhu’s legacy lives on through her impactful body of work and the deep emotional connection she forged with audiences.
News Source: https://www.thepaper.cn/newsDetail_forward_30852748
