Model-turned-actress Chrissie Chau moved from Shantou to Hong Kong at a young age. Her years of hardship might not have been understood by many, but she’s grateful for the opportunities and acting recognition this city has awarded her with. Chau did not fit in the cookie-cutter mould, but her persistence in the face of scepticism has made her la crème de la crème. In current times, this is precisely the spirit Hong Kong needs.
How would you describe your feelings towards Hong Kong? What does Hong Kong mean to you?
I moved to Hong Kong from Shantou with my family at the age of 10. This is an exciting city that has given me countless opportunities to choose from. The girls I knew back in Shantou all got married at the age of 19 or 20, but I still had a lot of work opportunities. I could embrace different stages of life.
What significance does Hong Kong cinema hold for you?
I had watched tons of Hong Kong movies even before coming to the city. Back then there was the Star Chinese Movies television channel, and I’d watch that from morning to night during summer break. Even though they replayed those movies countless times, I never lost interest. They accompanied me throughout my childhood days. I started working as a model in the beginning, but my interest in Hong Kong cinema never swayed. Through lucky circumstances, I later became an actress and it’s the most blissful thing because I found what I truly love to do.
What is the unique charm of cinema?
During the pandemic, the movie industry came to a standstill and opportunities were scarce which actually made me rethink my work. Before I would describe acting as a “desire”, but after taking up lead roles I realised that the pressure is immense. You’ve got to go over the script constantly, and figure out how to fully immerse yourself into the character. Now I understand that acting is a craft that goes beyond satisfying audience’s expectations. At the same time, you’ve got to learn how to enjoy the emotions of the characters. For actors, “to put yourself in one’s shoes” not only requires translating emotions to the audience, but also seeing the humanity of the characters you play.
Long necklace in white gold with diamonds; bracelet in white gold with blue sapphires and diamonds; ring in ethical white gold with blue sapphires, diamonds and Paraiba tourmaline, all Chopard. Dress, Fendi.
What are your current career aspirations?
Winning awards is certainly a form of recognition and encouragement, but it shouldn’t be the purpose of acting. As I said, cinema is an art made possible through the efforts of an entire team. Regardless of my performance, nothing would come about without the crew behind the scenes. So now I appreciate every collaboration with different departments, and see where I can elevate my acting.
Any Hong Kong director you admire most?
I particularly admire the work of Johnnie To because he has a unique style. You can tell straight away that it’s his work, and he masters both dark genres and romance too.
What do you think the future holds for Hong Kong cinema?
There seems to be more movies on social issues these years and the government has issued more grants to encourage up-and-coming directors. Opportunities are growing and that’s undoubtedly a good thing, but the whole world is changing and people are gradually moving towards streaming platforms instead. The format of movies will become more diverse, and the subject matters should be diversified to allow everyone the experience of cinema’s incomparable charm.
Translated by Karrie Lam
Photography: Jumbo Tsui
Fashion Director: Jonathan Yee
Makeup Artist: Circle Lee
Hair Stylist: Sing Tam @ Artify Lab
Creative Producer: Marina Fairfax
Executive Producer: Second Li
Senior Fashion Editor: Kyle Tang
Fashion Assistants: Naoki Li & Mama Yiu
Production Assistant: Jacky Liu
Lighting Direction: Zhang Zhen
Digital Tech: Mu Sheng
Creative Direction: Soya Song @ Pour Lui Creation
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