Hong Kong, with its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and rich cultural tapestry, has long been a muse for filmmakers. This curated list dives into the realm of fantasy, where the city's unique blend of East and West, tradition and modernity, serves as a backdrop for tales of magic, adventure, and the supernatural. From martial arts epics to modern-day ghost stories, these films showcase Hong Kong's cinematic prowess in weaving fantasy narratives that captivate audiences worldwide.

The Twins Effect (2003)
Description: This vampire-themed action comedy features twin sisters in Hong Kong who must protect a young boy with royal blood from a vampire queen, blending fantasy with the city's modern setting.
Fact: The film stars the popular Hong Kong pop duo Twins, showcasing the crossover between music and film in Hong Kong entertainment.


The Green Hornet (2011)
Description: While not entirely set in Hong Kong, this superhero film features significant scenes in the city, blending Western superhero tropes with Eastern martial arts and fantasy elements.
Fact: The film was directed by Michel Gondry and features Jay Chou as Kato, showcasing Hong Kong's influence on global cinema.


The Monkey King (2014)
Description: Based on the legendary "Journey to the West," this film brings to life the mischievous Monkey King, Sun Wukong, with Hong Kong's skyline and landscapes providing a modern twist to the ancient tale.
Fact: The film's visual effects were nominated for an award at the Asian Film Awards.


The Sorcerer and the White Snake (2011)
Description: This film is a modern retelling of the classic Chinese folktale, set in ancient Hong Kong, where a snake spirit falls in love with a human. The film's stunning visual effects and martial arts choreography make it a standout in the fantasy genre, capturing the essence of Hong Kong's folklore.
Fact: The film was a major box office success in China, and it features Jet Li in one of his rare villain roles.


The Mermaid (2016)
Description: Stephen Chow's whimsical take on the classic "The Little Mermaid" story, set in modern-day Hong Kong, where a mermaid must stop a real estate tycoon from destroying her underwater home.
Fact: It became the highest-grossing film in China at the time of its release.


Mr. Vampire (1985)
Description: A blend of horror, comedy, and fantasy, this film follows a Taoist priest and his apprentices as they deal with a hopping vampire in Hong Kong. Its unique mix of genres and cultural elements makes it a cult classic.
Fact: It spawned several sequels and is considered a pioneer in the "jiangshi" (hopping vampire) subgenre.


A Chinese Ghost Story (1987)
Description: This classic Hong Kong film blends romance, horror, and fantasy, telling the tale of a tax collector who falls for a ghost in a haunted temple. Its influence on Asian cinema and its portrayal of Hong Kong's supernatural lore make it a must-watch.
Fact: The film was remade in 2011, but the original remains a beloved piece of Hong Kong cinema.


The Bride with White Hair (1993)
Description: A tragic love story set during the Qing Dynasty, this film uses Hong Kong's lush landscapes to tell a tale of love, betrayal, and supernatural powers, making it a poignant addition to the fantasy genre.
Fact: It was remade in 2012, but the original is often considered superior for its emotional depth and visual style.


The Legend of the Condor Heroes (2017)
Description: This adaptation of Louis Cha's famous wuxia novel brings the epic story to life with Hong Kong's vibrant cityscape as a backdrop, blending historical drama with fantasy elements.
Fact: The series was a major hit in China and features a blend of traditional martial arts with modern storytelling techniques.


The Storm Riders (1998)
Description: Based on a popular Hong Kong manhua (comic), this film showcases a battle between good and evil, set in a fantastical version of ancient China, with Hong Kong's influence evident in its action sequences and visual style.
Fact: It was one of the first Hong Kong films to use extensive CGI, setting a new standard for visual effects in Asian cinema.
