Veteran Hong Kong actor Tony Leung, celebrated globally for his iconic roles, has remained a die-hard movie lover throughout his career. Despite four decades in the film industry, Leung still visits cinemas “four to five times a week,” a habit he’s maintained since childhood. Currently at the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) as the president of the competition jury, Leung shares the excitement and anxiety that comes with judging films at such a high-profile event.
The actor, known for his remarkable performances in films like In the Mood for Love, Lust, Caution, and Hero, expressed that, while he loves watching movies, critiquing them as a jury member feels distinctly different. “It’s not the same as watching movies as a fan,” he shared at the Tokyo Fest press conference. “Watching movies with a critical eye, especially alongside accomplished jury members, sometimes makes me feel insecure.”
Joining Leung on the jury are notable names, including Hong Kong director Johnnie To, Japanese actress Ai Hashimoto, Hungarian filmmaker Ildikó Enyedi, and French actress Chiara Mastroianni, whose parents are European cinema legends Marcello Mastroianni and Catherine Deneuve. The unique mix of jury members adds an interesting perspective to the selection process, with each bringing their unique expertise and film culture insights to the table.
While Leung is feeling the pressure, his fellow jury member Johnnie To, a seasoned filmmaker with an impressive track record, seems much more at ease. To, who directed Leung in The Longest Nite, expressed his love for Tokyo and shared that he visits the city frequently to savor its renowned culinary delights. He mentioned that he and Leung have been swapping tips on the best spots to eat, enjoying both the food and film cultures of Japan.
However, To is not all about leisure during this festival week. Discussing his approach to judging, To explained that he prefers to avoid any expectations or assumptions before watching films. “In the past, I was often let down by expectations. Now, I keep my mind open, without filters or biases, so I can fully appreciate the storytelling,” he explained.
French actress Chiara Mastroianni also shed light on the unique experience of attending film festivals in today’s digital world. Her latest film, Marcello Mio, will close the 2024 Tokyo Fest, and she is eager to celebrate cinema as a shared experience — something that’s increasingly rare today.
“People around the world have adapted to watching movies at home through streaming platforms, a trend that COVID has only accelerated,” Mastroianni noted. “Watching movies in theaters has become a rare event, but film festivals like Tokyo keep that tradition alive. It’s about more than just the films; it’s about sitting together in a room full of strangers, sharing emotions and the magic of cinema.”
Tony Leung’s frequent visits to the cinema are a testament to his undying passion for film, and his presence as jury president at TIFF shows his dedication to the art. With diverse jury members bringing various perspectives, the Tokyo International Film Festival promises a celebration of global cinema, culture, and the shared experiences that only theaters can offer.
The Tokyo Fest runs through November 3, highlighting both established filmmakers and fresh voices, ensuring an exciting array of movies for cinephiles to enjoy. As Leung, To, and others keep the spirit of traditional cinema alive, they offer inspiration for audiences to rediscover the joy of watching movies beyond home screens.
