Returning to the New Wave

The Secret (Restored Version)

Dir: Ann Hui
Scr: Joyce Chan
Prod Co: Unique
Cast: Alex Man, Angie Chiu Nga-chi, Sylvia Chang, Tsui Siu-keung, Lee Hye-sook
1979 | Colour | DCP | Cantonese | Chi & Eng Subtitles | 90min

The first feature film by Ann Hui and Joyce Chan is a pioneering work of the Hong Kong New Wave. Based on a true murder case, The Secret is a thriller about the killing of a doctor (Alex Man) and his fiandée (Angie Chiu Nga-chi). Following the investigation by Ming (Sylvia Chang), the late couple's friend, the film uses an innovative, non-linear narrative structure to peel back the layers of this seemingly complex case. This is a surprisingly radical departure from Hui and Chan's neorealist television work. However, the creators have crafted more than just another sensational true-crime film; The Secret is a journey into the dark side of the human psyche. By creating a contrast between the dark, stuffy interiors of old apartments with the sterile, modern décor of a developing Hong Kong, they brilliantly use architectural tension to reflect the psychological conflict between the characters.

Showing with 'Restoration Story' of the Film

Courtesy of Hong Kong Film Services

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