A happy family's life is forever shattered when a crime is committed. Photo: Handout
Amidst the many big film opening at cinemas in June, there's also a Hong Kong drama Papa starring Sean Lau Ching Wan.
The 61-year-old was named Best Actor for his portrayal of a grieving father in the film at Hong Kong Film Award, Hong Kong Film Critics Society Award and Asian Film Award.
According to a review by The Guardian, he is “tremendously subtle” playing the role of a man whose own son brutally murders his wife and daughter.
The story is based on real crime that took place in 2010. Director Philip Yung took 10 years to finish the script, which also led him to meet and have conversations with the real “papa”.
In an interview with Vogue Hong Kong, Yung spoke about working on a script for a decade while he also experienced death of family members, and different relationships.
“This movie represents my thoughts the best, because I’ve run it through my brain so many times, and it’s changed so many times. A lot of my views towards people’s relationships have been embedded in this movie. This is the purpose of contemplating for 10 years.”
Although Lau didn’t take as long to accept the role, he gave it a lot of thought as he went through the script many times.
In the same article, Lau said: “I really like what it says, because this isn’t about black and white truths, righteousness and evil, nor is it an accusatory movie.
“It’s not about who’s right or wrong, no; It’s not about economic disparity, how the rich act, no.
“This is a tragedy that happened to a very ordinary family, and it’s possible that it could happen to any family.
“What now, after it’s happened? The script provides a solution at the end, I think that’s very important.”
Nin (Lau) lives a simple life, running a cafe and being with his wife, son and daughter.
But that life is completely shattered with the murders of his wife and daughter at the hands of his son.
While the teenager, who is diagnosed with schizophrenia, is sentenced to indefinite psychiatric imprisonment, Nin chooses to lead a solitary life, burdened by memories of his lost family.
Despite the pain, he continues visiting his son twice a month, clinging to a single hope.
The film also stars Jo Koo, Dylan So and Lainey Hung.
