Lost In Hong Kong

Lost In Hong Kong is an evocative, exuberant, and hilarious comedy-drama that was released in 2015. This film, a sequel to the critical and commercial hit Lost In Thailand (2012), marks another brilliant collaboration between the lead actor and director Zheng Xu and the screenwriter Huan Shu. The film seamlessly merges different genres, making it an enjoyable watch. It also provides a snapshot of the vibrant city of Hong Kong, upon which the plot is intricately sketched.

Zheng Xu plays the lead role of Xu Lai, a man with unfulfilled aspirations. This aspirational former artist now leads a mediocre life, having traded his paintbrush for a brassiere, as he ironically sells bras as a family business along with his wife (Wei Zhao). He is trapped in a boring life and a loveless marriage, and his journey to break free from this monotony forms the core of the film.

Wei Zhao plays Cai Bo, Xu Lai's controlling wife, who wants their Hong Kong vacation to result in a baby, but Xu Lai has other plans. Xu plans to reconnect with his lost love, Yang Yi (Du Juan), who he discovers is having an exhibition in Hong Kong. In a twist of fate, Xu's plans are thwarted when his hypochondriac brother-in-law Bao (Bei'er Bao) tags along with them. Bao acts as a self-appointed documentary filmer, armed with a camcorder, who records their every move, thus adding to Xu's hilariously complicated predicaments.

The film sets up the narrative by showing the spectacular wallpapers of Hong Kong making it an integral part of the movie. The chaotic, ever-buzzing cityscape of Hong Kong plays an essential part in the plot of the film. The bustling city’s urban architecture and kaleidoscopic manifestation of its culture establish an energetic and thrilling backdrop for the storyline. It helps develop the movie into more than a comedy film, turning it into a cinematic journey that charms viewers' senses and feelings.

The comedy in Lost in Hong Kong is driven by its fantastically executed slapstick sequences and witty situational humor. Notable performances by the star-studded cast elevate the quality of the humor. Zheng Xu is an identity himself with superb comic timing and a flowing river of expressions. Bei'er Bao, as the quirky, obsessive, and fast-talking Bao, offers an excellent contrast to Xu's character, resulting in many hilarious situations. Wei Zhao also delivers a compelling performance as the loving, caring but ambitious wife, adding another layer of humor to the film.

The movie delicately balances humor with drama and romance, which aggrandizes its appeal. The narrative is dynamic, switching between a suspenseful chase, hidden past, romance, and ebullient comedy with effortless mechanism. There are moments of thrill, fun, and sentimentality, that grip the audience and keep them engaged.

Lost In Hong Kong also pays homage to a plethora of pop culture references. Themes shared with other hit films are subtly woven into the plotline, making it a fresh and creative initiative. The film boasts plenty of surprising cameos and takes the audiences on a cheerful nostalgic ride that adds another layer to the humorous narrative.

The film, although filled with slapstick sequences, doesn’t lose its artistic touch. This is evident in Xu Lai's character's beautifully illustrated flashback sequences. The past and present are masterfully interwoven to communicate the story's crux and add depth to the characters' personalities.

One of the most successful films in China in 2015, Lost In Hong Kong is a perfect blend of romance, comedy, nostalgia, and action. It serves as a sumptuous cinematic treat, brilliantly captured and beautifully narrated. Whether you're seeking a hearty laugh, a roller-coaster adventure, or insight into Hong Kong's hypnotic cityscape, Lost In Hong Kong is a film worthy of your time. With captivating performances, a well-constructed script, engaging comedic set-pieces, and heartfelt emotions, this movie stands as one of the best in its genre. Grab some popcorn, and get ready to be lost and found in the fabulous cityscape of Hong Kong with Xu Lai and company.