Cast
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Stephy Tang Lai-Yan
as Mari Hirakawa
Chapman To Man-Chat
as Chan Kent
Yasuaki Kurata
as Akira Hirakawa
Stephen Au Kam-Tong
as Mute Dog
Dada Chan
as Peggy
Ryan Lau Chun-Kong
as Calvin
Michelle Lo
as Bulldog
Chow Chi-Fai
as Boss
Roy Szeto Wai-Cheuk
as Szeto
Tanya Chan
as Lawyer
Man Sai
as Sun Kee Master Keung
Patrick Leung Pak-Kin
as Drunkard in Park
Himmy Wong
as Bartender
Wiyona Yeung Lau-Ching
as Calvin's Wife
Charlene Houghton
as Charlene
Crew
Director
- Chapman To Man-Chat
Producer
- Chapman To Man-Chat
- Tang Wai-But
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Empty Hands examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Chapman To Man-Chat brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Empty Hands took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2171 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Empty Hands shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Walking Tall, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Empty Hands offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Winners & Sinners and Drive explore similar territory, The Empty Hands stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 2, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 27m
