In a nod to the timeless allure of Hong Kong cinema, Thai actor Mario Maurer has been named the Asian Film Awards’ Youth Ambassador. He graced the AFA ceremony in late March and was subsequently invited by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) to create a promotional video that pays tribute to the city’s storied film industry. The video highlights three iconic Hong Kong landmarks immortalized in legendary films, showcasing the city as an essential destination for film lovers worldwide.

Hong Kong cinema is a cornerstone of contemporary pop culture, known for its exhilarating action scenes, intermittent humor, and the captivating atmosphere of the city itself. These elements have cemented Hong Kong's status as an iconic travel destination, drawing visitors eager to experience the unique ambiance of this cinematic haven.

Chungking Express: Central–Mid-Levels Escalator

Mario's cinematic journey begins with a tribute to Wong Kar-Wai's "Chungking Express." Inspired by the film’s police officer character, Mario donned the iconic attire and explored the 800-meter-long Central–Mid-Levels escalator. This location is surrounded by classic Hong Kong shops and architecture, integral to Wong Kar-Wai’s distinctive aesthetic. “When I watch Wong Kar-Wai’s films, I see glimpses of everyday life in Hong Kong. That’s why I enjoy exploring interesting shops, tenement buildings, and barber shops around the escalator,” Mario shared.

The Lucky Guy: Hung Wan Cafe

The next stop on Mario's tour was a Cha Chaan Teng, a quintessential Hong Kong-style café blending Eastern and Western culinary traditions. At Hung Wan Cafe in Mong Kok, the filming location for "The Lucky Guy," Mario embodied the role of Ho Kam Sui, the film’s protagonist, while dressed as a waiter. He indulged in iconic dishes such as Hong Kong-style milk tea, French toast, and Baked Pork Chop Rice. For those eager to explore more Cha Chaan Teng, renowned spots like Lan Fong Yuen, Mido Café, Australian Dairy Company, and Cheung Hing Coffee Shop offer delicious fare and fantastic photo opportunities.

77 Heartwarmings: Tai Kwun

Mario’s final destination was Tai Kwun in Central, featured in "77 Heartwarmings," a romantic film in which he starred. Reprising his role as Marvel, Mario visited this revitalized Former Central Police Station Compound, now a hub for heritage, arts, and culture. Tai Kwun seamlessly blends historic colonial-style architecture with modern skyscrapers, embodying the perfect harmony between old and new Hong Kong.

Hong Kong's cinematic legacy is further supported by the HKTB, which backs various international film productions, including the recent "Under Parallel Skies" featuring Thai actor Win Metawin and Filipino starlet Janella Salvador. To enhance the cinematic experience, the HKTB has launched a dedicated travel guide, offering visitors curated experiences to immerse themselves in the world of Hong Kong movies. Fans can relive scenes from "Infernal Affairs" in Ap Liu Street record stores, retrace the motorbike journey from "Fallen Angels" on an open-top bus, and pay tribute to martial arts legend Bruce Lee through Wing Chun workshops.

Mario Maurer's appointment as the Asian Film Awards’ Youth Ambassador and his homage to Hong Kong cinema underscores the enduring appeal of the city's film industry, inviting film enthusiasts to explore the captivating charm and iconic landmarks of Hong Kong.

For more information and to watch the promotional video, visit here.