The Last Dance, directed by renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Anselm Chan, has made waves in the local film industry, breaking records and captivating audiences with its heartfelt and humorous exploration of life, death, and the intricacies of the funeral industry. Released on November 9, 2024, the film smashed local records for the biggest opening day for a Hong Kong movie, setting a new benchmark for the city’s film industry. Then, this past Saturday, November 16, the film broke Hong Kong’s box office record for single day earnings, collecting 8.61 million HKD.
The story follows Dominic (played by Dayo Wong, a renowned comedian and actor), a debt-ridden wedding planner whose career takes an unexpected turn when he inherits a funeral planning business from its retiring co-owner. Armed with unconventional and creative funeral ideas, Dominic finds surprising success in his new role. However, he faces his greatest challenge in winning the respect of his new business partner, Master Man (played by legendary comedian Michael Hui), a traditional and stern Daoist priest. Through a series of unusual funerals, Dominic comes to understand Man’s deep code of ethics and the profound meaning behind each final farewell.
Wong and Hui’s reunion 32 years after starring in the 1992 comedy Magic Touch is a cinematic highlight, with their comedic chemistry and emotional depth bringing the film’s narrative to life. Critics have commended their ability to balance humor with the film’s existential themes. Supporting them is a stellar cast, including acclaimed Hong Kong actresses and actors Michelle Wai, Catherine Chau, and Chu Pak-hong, who add complexity and nuance to the narrative.
The film, which had its world premiere at the 44th Hawaii International Film Festival and was the opening film for the 21st Hong Kong Asian Film Festival, also screened at the 37th Tokyo International Film Festival. These prestigious events highlight its international appeal, setting the stage for its critical and commercial success.
The Last Dance has already garnered significant global attention, with audiences from diverse backgrounds eagerly anticipating its release. “I really want to see it,” commented ttisagoodchild, a Hong Kong student studying in Thailand, on an Instagram post. Similarly, another Instagram user, letiziakun, also expressed his excitement towards the film’s release dates by commenting, “Taiwan needs to see!! Long awaited.” Such enthusiasm underscores the film’s universal themes and emotional resonance, captivating viewers across borders.
At its core, The Last Dance is more than a tale of professional reinvention; it delves into universal questions of legacy, grief, and the meaning of life. The humor woven throughout the narrative offers a refreshing perspective on these heavy topics, while the film also examines the darker, often-overlooked business side of funerals. Moreover, it thoughtfully navigates the interplay between tradition and modernity, especially in the realm of religion. Michelle Wai’s role as Man’s paramedic daughter stands out as a symbol of female empowerment, showcasing a modern woman navigating a male-dominated industry. Her character challenges long-standing norms, expressing frustration with gender limitations in the Daoist priesthood, as captured in her powerful line in the released trailer, “Only men can be Taoist priests. That’s tradition. I’d do it if I could.” This highlights the underlying societal barriers women face and adds a poignant layer to the film’s exploration of ethical and cultural dilemmas.
With its blend of humor, drama, and cultural resonance, The Last Dance is not just a commercial triumph but also a cultural milestone. The film has redefined the scope of Hong Kong cinema while celebrating the beauty and brevity of life.
Banner image via Emperor Motion Pictures.
