Mr. Sammo Hung, is a legendary figure in Hong Kong cinema, renowned for his multifaceted talents as a film director, action choreographer, actor and producer. His illustrious career spans over six decades and more than 230 films. It all began when he was nine years old. His training in the Peking Opera School of martial arts and acrobats laid a solid foundation for his extraordinary career in the film industry. His film debut in Education of Love (1961) marked the beginning of a journey that would see him become one of the most influential figures in Hong Kong cinema.

His real love of filmmaking began when he was merely a stuntman at the age of 16. Following a long day of intense work, he would return to school all excited and get his younger peers to reenact what he saw and played that day on set. Little did he know this spark of interest would lead him to a career that he came to love. From that point onward, Mr. Hung immersed himself in every aspect of film production, offering his help whenever needed. His humility endeared him to those around him, making him one of the most well-rounded filmmakers of our era.

One of his most distinctive traits is the ability to blend martial arts with humour. By infusing comedic elements into high-octane action sequences, Mr. Hung created a new genre that appealed to a broad audience. A perfect illustration of this unique blend is his series of Lucky Stars movies which masterfully combine and create a perfect balance of impressive fight choreography and slapstick comedy.

Another groundbreaking creative work by Mr. Hung was the movie Encounters of the Spooky Kind (1980), a film that would later become a cornerstone of the "jiangshi" genre. His ability to seamlessly integrate comedy, horror, and action set a new standard for genre fusion in Asian cinema, influencing numerous filmmakers in the years that followed. His exceptional contributions have garnered recognition through prestigious accolades, including the Best Action Choreography Award at the Hong Kong Film Awards and the Golden Horse Awards, as well as the Best Actor Award at the Hong Kong Film Awards and the Asia Pacific Film Festival.

Venturing beyond Hong Kong, Mr. Hung captivated audiences in the United States with his role in the television series Martial Law (1998). Amidst the challenges of filming, which included language barriers and adapting to American production practices, his dedication and innovative approach to action choreography quickly earned him the admiration of both the crew and viewers. True to his nickname, "the most agile fat guy," he consistently showcased his remarkable prowess on screen.

Beyond Mr. Hung’s creative pursuits, his lasting impact goes beyond his on-screen achievements. His willingness to mentor and support emerging talents have played a crucial role in shaping a new cohort of filmmakers and actors within the Hong Kong film industry. For example, the renowned “Sammo Hung Stunt Team” provided a crucial platform for nurturing new talents and was instrumental in the transition of numerous action professionals into successful actors and directors in their own right. Revered as “Big Brother” by the stuntmen and filmmakers he mentored, this title symbolises not just his seniority but also the profound bonds of trust and loyalty he cultivated within the industry.

Over the course of his celebrated career, Mr. Hung has remained steadfast in his mission to empower and inspire young talents. His resolute spirit, positive attitude, and emphasis on embracing passion, resilience, and humility serve as guiding principles for those endeavouring to forge extraordinary paths in the realm of cinema. His cinematic legacy is preserved in the Academy Library, serving as a wellspring of inspiration for members of the Academy community and perpetuating his professional spirit and enduring influence.