In a candid discussion, legendary filmmaker Johnnie To shared insights into his ongoing struggles with creativity as he works on his Hong Kong-set drama, Hope. For the past three years, To has been delving into the complexities of life in his hometown, reflecting on the shifting cultural landscape amid political and social upheaval.

During a recent interview at the Doha Film Institute’s Qumra event, To confirmed that while he is keen to finalize Hope, he is also eager to embark on a gangster movie set in Japan’s picturesque Hokkaido region. However, the success of this new venture is contingent on his ability to complete the current film.

To admitted to feeling creatively blocked, stating, “I shot for 10 days two months ago, then paused as I struggled with the direction I wanted to take.” He has a distinctive style that often involves improvisation without a rigid screenplay, making it challenging to pinpoint the film's thematic essence. “I have a rough idea, but it's not yet mature,” he confessed.

As he navigates his creative process, To emphasizes that his film is about hope, capturing the spirit of Hong Kong and its people. He reflected on the profound experience of filmmaking, stating, "People may have hope, but that hope often comes with burdens." The influence of the socio-political climate on creatives in Hong Kong cannot be overstated. Since the 1997 handover to China, the local film industry — which To helped elevate — has struggled to maintain its former glory, with many filmmakers leaving the territory in search of opportunities abroad.

The filmmaker expressed concern for the current climate in Hong Kong, pointing to a mass exodus of approximately 500,000 residents between 2021 and 2024 due to political instability. “The value of life has changed drastically,” To observed, detailing how these shifts impact his creative efforts. He specified that his inability to feel authentic when creating films has also contributed to his current block.

To had some advice for emerging filmmakers in Hong Kong, urging them to "shoot whatever you can," despite the significant financial challenges they face. He noted that only two films are in production in Hong Kong during the first quarter of this year, a stark drop from the nearly 200 films being produced at industry height.

On a positive note, if he can overcome the hurdles of Hope, To is looking forward to filming his Japanese gangster movie in December. He remained coy about the possibility of reuniting with his long-time collaborator, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, for this project, indicating that while he hopes for their collaboration, nothing is confirmed.

Additionally, To mentioned plans for a third film project set in Taiwan, indicating his desire to broaden his horizons beyond Hong Kong. “I think about Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, or even Europe," he said, expressing a desire to explore different cultures through his work. Despite his intentions to shoot abroad, To reassured fans that his heart remains firmly rooted in Hong Kong, where he continues to pursue storytelling that resonates with his experiences.

As To continues his journey as a filmmaker, fans and industry peers are left wondering how his personal experiences will shape Hope and the future of cinema in Hong Kong. Will he break through his creative block in time to complete his latest vision? Stay tuned for more updates from this iconic director as he battles through uncertainty and strives to convey the stories that matter most to him.