Tales of Love and Romance

77 Heartbreaks

Dir: Herman Yau
Orig Story/Scr: Erica Li
Prod Cos: Emperor, Stella Mega
Cast: Charlene Choi, Pakho Chau, Michelle Wai, Gillian Chung, Anthony Wong
2017 | Colour | DCP | Cantonese | Chi & Eng Subtitles | 96min

Erica Li adapted her own novel into the screenplay for 77 Heartbreaks. A prolific figure in Hong Kong’s popular culture, Li began her career as a singer in the Cantopop duo Paradox before transitioning into writing and broadcasting. She has since become a novelist, essayist, lyricist, radio host, and screenwriter, known for her sharp observations on modern relationships, often expressed with a strong female sensibility.

Directed by Herman Yau, the film follows Eva (Charlene Choi) and Adam (Pakho Chau), a couple whose decade-long relationship ends abruptly with Eva’s unannounced departure. After their breakup, Adam discovers Eva’s journal, which records 77 instances where he broke her heart—moments she forgave but never forgot. Further complicating matters is Adam’s casual relationship with Mandy (Michelle Wai) after Eva leaves him. Through a narrative structure that shifts between past and present, Yau skillfully brings to life Li’s script, revealing how the couple’s relationship unravels through seemingly small and mundane moments like movie dates, furniture shopping, and holidays abroad.

77 Heartbreaks is likely to resonate with modern audiences, particularly those navigating love in a fast-paced urban world. In an era where people often express emotions online for instant feedback, the film highlights the enduring power of writing by hand, perhaps reflecting Li’s own fondness for the traditional medium.

Courtesy of Emperor Motion Pictures