Hong Kong Film Starter Pack: Classics & Cult Favourites You Need To Watch

From triad thrillers to urban romances, here’s a curated guide to Hong Kong’s cinematic films that define the magic and diversity of Hong Kong cinema!

Hong Kong cinema is legendary for its energy, inventiveness and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re a newcomer or a nostalgic local, these films capture the city’s vibrant spirit, unique humour and emotional depth. From gritty crime dramas and offbeat romances to laugh-out-loud comedies, this list is your key to understanding — and falling in love with — Hong Kong through its movies. So grab some snacks, dim the lights and get ready to explore the heart and soul of the city, one film at a time…

Read More: The Best Movie Theatres & Cinemas In Hong Kong

Twilight Of The Warriors: Walled In 九龍城寨之圍城 (2024)

Set in the notorious Kowloon Walled City — once known as the world’s most densely populated, lawless enclave before its demolition in the 1990s — this action-packed film follows a young man who stumbles into the city’s criminal underworld. Amidst chaos and danger, he discovers a close-knit community bound by survival. The film offers a thrilling glimpse into a vanished chapter of Hong Kong’s history, blending gritty action with nostalgia for a historic place that has achieved legendary status.

Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Where to stream: Available on Disney+

Read More: Your Guide To Kowloon City — Restaurants, Cafes & Attractions

The Last Dance 破·地獄 (2024)

Set in contemporary Hong Kong, The Last Dance focuses on a wedding planner whose life is upended when pandemic-induced debts force him to reinvent himself as a funeral director. Determined to succeed, he brings a host of modern ideas to his fledgling funeral business, much to the scepticism of his traditional business partner, a conservative Taoist priest. the film also delves into the strained relationship between the priest and his daughter, a paramedic grappling with her father’s entrenched patriarchal values. Blending gentle humour with heartfelt moments, The Last Dance explores themes of change, generational conflict and the search for meaning in unexpected places.

Sassy Tip: If you’re squeamish, brace yourself — some of the ‘corpses’ (played by very-much-alive actors) look so convincingly gross that it almost made a Team Sassy member lose her popcorn. Definitely not for the faint of stomach!

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life
Where to stream: Available on Disney+, Google Play and Apple TV

Time Still Turns The Pages 年少日記 (2023)

This poignant coming-of-age drama centres on a secondary school teacher who recognises signs of distress in one of his students. As he tries to help, he is forced to revisit his own difficult childhood and unresolved trauma. Set in contemporary Hong Kong, the film thoughtfully explores the lasting effects of bullying, the importance of compassion and the journey towards healing, both for the young and the grown.

Genre: Coming-of-Age, Drama
Where to stream: Available on Now TV and Viu TV streaming app

Read More: 7 Myths & Common Misconceptions About Mental Health

Sons Of The Neon Night 風林火山 (2025)

Making its world premiere at the 2025 Cannes Midnight Screening, this crime thriller is set in a neon-lit, rain-soaked Hong Kong. It intricately weaves together the lives of gangsters, police and ordinary citizens, all caught up in a city on the brink. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, the film explores the blurred lines between good and evil, painting a vivid portrait of urban chaos and moral complexities.

Sassy tip: We’ll be sure to keep you in the loop as soon as this movie hits the big screen! Don’t forget to check out our “Things To Do In Hong Kong” guide so you won’t miss a thing! Article link here!

Genre: Crime, Thriller
Where to stream: TBC

Read More: Things To Do Indoors When It’s Raining In Hong Kong

A Guilty Conscience 毒舌大狀 (2023)

This gripping courtroom drama follows a sharp-tongued but principled lawyer who takes on a high-profile case involving a wrongfully accused single mother. As he battles a corrupt legal system and powerful adversaries, the lawyer must confront his own past mistakes and ethical dilemmas. The film skillfully blends suspenseful trial scenes with moments of dark humour and personal reflection, offering a compelling look at the pursuit of justice and the underlining complications of modern Hong Kong.

Genre: Crime, Legal Drama, Thriller
Where to stream: Available on Viu TV streaming app 

Read More: Who You Need In Your Circle — Hong Kong Edition

Election 黑社會 (2005)

Widely regarded as a classic, this intense crime drama delves into the power struggles within Hong Kong’s oldest triad society as members vie for the coveted position of chairman. Directed by Johnnie To, the film offers a realistic portrayal of loyalty, betrayal and the unspoken codes that govern the criminal underworld. The film received international acclaim and won the Best Screenplay award in the Out of Competition section at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival!

Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller
Where to stream: Available on Netflix and Disney+

Love In A Puff 志明與春嬌 (2010)

Finally, a romantic comedy to lighten the mood! This refreshingly candid love story follows two young people who connected over cigarette breaks in Hong Kong’s back alleys — a new routine born thanks to the city’s public indoor smoking ban, which pushed smokers outside and turned alleyways into unexpected social hubs. In contrast to clichéd romance books (which we secretly adore anyway), the film’s sharp wit and authentic dialogue explores the awkward, funny and endearing moments that define modern relationships. Love in a Puff quickly became a cult favourite for its relatable characters and its honest, humorous take on romance in Hong Kong.

Sassy tip: Can’t get enough of Cherie and Jimmy’s love saga? Good news — there’s more! Catch them again in Love In The Buff (set in Beijing) and don’t miss the trilogy’s grand finale, Love Off the Cuff! Binge-watching, anyone?

Genre: Comedy, Romance
Where to stream: Available on Netflix and Apple TV

Read More: Hong Kong Dating Stories — Online Dating

Chungking Express 重慶森林 (1994)

Wong Kar-wai’s iconic film weaves together two bittersweet tales of love and longing set against the neon-lit backdrop of 1990s Hong Kong. Following two lovelorn policemen, a mysterious woman in a blonde wig and a quirky snack bar worker, the film captures fleeting connections and the undeniable loneliness experienced in the city. With its dreamy visuals, eclectic soundtrack and storytelling, Chungking Express has become a touchstone of modern cinema, celebrated for its style, emotional depth and evocative portrayal of a city in constant motion.

Sassy Fact: Popstar Faye Wong (the quirky snack bar girl—also named Faye!) had never acted before Chungking Express. She was already selling out stadiums with her dreamy cover of The Cranberries’ “Dreams” — the very song you’ll hear during that iconic, slow-mo food stall scene. The whimsical charm of this moment never fails to captivate a fellow Sassy member on every rewatch!

Genre: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
Where to stream: Available on Amazon Prime and Apple TV

Read More: Team Sassy’s Favourite Neighbourhood Bars & Local Pubs

Shaolin Soccer 少林足球 (2001)

And finally, you can’t call yourself a Hongkonger if you haven’t watched a Stephen Chow film — specifically Shaolin Soccer (because it’s the funniest, it’s no debate…). This comedy follows a former Shaolin monk who reunites his brothers to form the most unconventional soccer team ever, using their kung fu skills on the pitch. Packed with wild action, slapstick humour and Chow’s trademark blend of silliness and sincerity, the film is a joyous parody of both sports and martial arts genres. Its infectious energy, lovable characters and underdog spirit have made it an enduring Hong Kong favourite.

Genre: Action, Comedy, Sports
Where to stream: Available on Amazon Prime, Apple TV and Paramount+

Read More: Top Hong Kong Events & Weekend Activities For Your Diary