Nov. 3, 2023

He’s In The Mood For Love, Tony Leung, The Legend

Famous Hong Kong actor Tony Leung has received the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 80th Venice Film Festival, as he teared up in the midst of a standing ovation given by the crowd. Making history being the first Chinese actor and third Chinese film to be given the achievement. By: Dylan Low

Having won the lifetime achievement award, it truly highlights his headway from the TV screen to universally stardom. Legendary Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai was honoured with the Golden Lion Lifetime Achievement Award at the 80th Venice Film Festival. This prestigious accolade marks a historic moment, as Tony Leung becomes the first Chinese actor to receive this esteemed recognition. His remarkable career and exceptional contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark, and this award is a testament to his talent and dedication.

Throughout his illustrious journey, Tony Leung has graced the silver screen in iconic films such as In The Mood For Love (2000) and 2046 (2004), both directed by Wong Kar-wai. His performances have resonated globally, captivating audiences with their depth and emotional intensity.

Notably, Leung has also been part of three movies that clinched the top Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival: A City Of Sadness (1989), Cyclo (1995), and Lust, Caution (2007), directed by Ang Lee. As he accepted the award, tears welled up in his eyes, and a prolonged standing ovation from the audience reflected their appreciation for his remarkable career.

In an interview ahead of the ceremony, the 61-year-old actor shared insights into his journey. He revealed that acting had helped him overcome shyness, allowing him to express emotions more freely. Leung’s upcoming projects include a Hong Kong crime thriller titled The Goldfinger, where he reunites with fellow actor Andy Lau, reversing their roles from their 2002 hit film Infernal Affairs.

Additionally, Leung is set to venture into new territory by starring in his first European film, Silent Friend, directed by Hungary’s Ildiko Enyedi. In this challenging role, he portrays a neuroscientist, diving into unfamiliar realms of knowledge.

Tony Leung’s legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and cinephiles alike. His Golden Lion Lifetime Achievement Award stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of cinema.

“I plan to spend like eight months (preparing for it) … I have no idea about what neuroscience is. So, I have to read a lot of books and I have to do a lot of university hopping,” he shared about his new role, during the 2023 Venice Film Festival.

Leung is married to Carina Lau, who is proclaimed to be one of the biggest female superstars in the Hong Kong film industry. They have been together since the late 1980s, having married in Bhutan in 2008.

Tony began his movie career in 1983, when he featured in the Shaw Brothers’ comedy Mad, Mad 83. Over the next few years, he starred in many notable films such as Love unto Waste and People’s Hero, earning his first nominations and awards respectively. The Taiwanese film City of Sadness boosted him to international popularity. Earning the Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival that same year, he continued making popular films and never looked back on his prominent acting success. 

He then started featuring in films that had broader international outreach, namely Andrew Lau and Alan Mak’s Infernal Affairs and Chinese auteur Zhang Yimou’s wuxia style movie Hero.

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