Andy Lau: From Actor to Mentor, A New Generation of Hong Kong Directors
In early February, Andy Lau, the renowned actor and singer, sat down for an interview with “Sina Hummingbird” in a Beijing hotel to discuss his upcoming film “Mr. Red Carpet”, his plans for the Lunar New Year, and his passion for supporting new talent in the entertainment industry.
Lau, who has been in the entertainment industry for 42 years, appeared in a red sweatshirt, blue jeans, and white sneakers, exuding a youthful energy that defied his age of 62. As he sat down for the interview, he skillfully prepared the radio equipment himself, showcasing a level of humility and hands-on approach often not seen in celebrities of his stature.
When asked about his plans for the Lunar New Year, Lau expressed his intention to spend time with his family and mentioned his interest in supporting new generation directors in Hong Kong. He emphasized that he does not simply want to “support” them, but rather wants to actively engage with and mentor them, acknowledging the importance of new attempts in the industry and the value of both success and failure.
Lau’s upcoming film, “Mr. Red Carpet”, directed by Ning Hao, has generated substantial buzz, with many media outlets praising the fusion of Lau’s character with those of Tony Leung and Stephen Chow. However, Lau was quick to dispel this notion, emphasizing that his character represents three distinct identities in the entertainment industry and that the emotions portrayed in the film are genuine.
When discussing his relationship with Ning Hao, Lau spoke passionately about his admiration for the director’s growth and the special bond they share. He described Ning Hao as a close friend and expressed his willingness to collaborate with new directors, emphasizing the importance of staying within budget constraints while allowing creative expression to flourish.
Commenting on his future plans, Lau revealed his intention to focus on nurturing new talent in Hong Kong, citing the diverse and innovative work of young directors as a driving force behind his decision.
In an industry where established actors often choose to bask in their own spotlight, Lau’s commitment to mentoring new talent and championing fresh ideas is a refreshing and inspiring message, reminding everyone that success is not just about personal achievement, but also about giving back and paving the way for the next generation of talent.