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The Star
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
'Papa' starring HK Film Awards best actor Sean Lau to hit cinemas June 12
A happy family's life is forever shattered when a crime is committed. Photo: Handout Amidst the many big film opening at cinemas in June, there's also a Hong Kong drama Papa starring Sean Lau Ching Wan. The 61-year-old was named Best Actor for his portrayal of a grieving father in the film at Hong Kong Film Award, Hong Kong Film Critics Society Award and Asian Film Award. According to a review by The Guardian , he is 'tremendously subtle' playing the role of a man whose own son brutally murders his wife and daughter. The story is based on real crime that took place in 2010. Director Philip Yung took 10 years to finish the script, which also led him to meet and have conversations with the real 'papa'. In an interview with Vogue Hong Kong , Yung spoke about working on a script for a decade while he also experienced death of family members, and different relationships. 'This movie represents my thoughts the best, because I've run it through my brain so many times, and it's changed so many times. A lot of my views towards people's relationships have been embedded in this movie. This is the purpose of contemplating for 10 years.' Although Lau didn't take as long to accept the role, he gave it a lot of thought as he went through the script many times. In the same article, Lau said: 'I really like what it says, because this isn't about black and white truths, righteousness and evil, nor is it an accusatory movie. 'It's not about who's right or wrong, no; It's not about economic disparity, how the rich act, no. 'This is a tragedy that happened to a very ordinary family, and it's possible that it could happen to any family. 'What now, after it's happened? The script provides a solution at the end, I think that's very important.' Nin (Lau) lives a simple life, running a cafe and being with his wife, son and daughter. But that life is completely shattered with the murders of his wife and daughter at the hands of his son. While the teenager, who is diagnosed with schizophrenia, is sentenced to indefinite psychiatric imprisonment, Nin chooses to lead a solitary life, burdened by memories of his lost family. Despite the pain, he continues visiting his son twice a month, clinging to a single hope. The film also stars Jo Koo, Dylan So and Lainey Hung.
USA Today
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Nora Aunor, most awarded actress in Filipino cinema, dies at 71: 'Touched generations'
Nora Aunor, most awarded actress in Filipino cinema, dies at 71: 'Touched generations' Actress Nora Aunor, known as one of the Philippines' most prominent stars, has died at 71. Aunor's death on April 16 was announced by her daughter, fellow actress Lotlot de Leon, on Instagram the same day. "It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Nora Aunor, our beloved mother, celebrated television and movie actress, and a true National Artist of the Philippines," de Leon captioned a black-and-white photo of the late star. "She touched generations with her unmatched talent, grace, and passion for the craft. Her voice, presence, and artistry shaped a legacy that will never fade." No cause of death has been given. Aunor is thought to be the most awarded actress in Filipino cinema, with multiple lifetime achievement awards and several international awards, including an Asian Film Award for best actress. The record-breaking singer and theater actress was known for the Filipino films "Bona" and "Taklub," both shown at Cannes International Film Festival; "Himala," the biopic "The Flor Contemplacion Story," "Andrea, Paano Ba ang Maging Isang Ina?" and "Thy Womb," which was shown at Venice International Film Festival. She also starred in the television series "Bituin," "Little Nanay," "Onanay" and "Bilangin ang bituin sa langit." Aunor's final acting credit, for "Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law," came in 2024. The Philippines' National Commission for Culture and the Arts announced on social media that Aunor would be given a public funeral and ceremony. The film and television star was granted the country's Order of National Artist by the Office of the President in the field of Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022. "The 'Superstar' has an extensive filmography of more than 170 films," the commission wrote. "This number is exceeded only by the number of awards and citations she has received from local and international organizations." Aunor is survived by her five children, including actors Lotlot de Leon, Ian de León and Matet de Léon-Estrada. "She was a star not only on screen, but in the hearts of many—and stars like hers never stop shining," Lotlot de Leon continued. "Her light lives on—forever loved, never forgotten."
