According to HK01, the selection committee reviewed films released between October 2024 and September 2025, with The Last Dance receiving the highest number of votes. Directed by Anselm Chan, the film premiered in November 2024 and stars Dayo Wong, Michael Hui, Michelle Wai, and Chu Pak-hong.
The story follows Dominic Ngai (played by Dayo Wong), a wedding planner who, during the pandemic and economic downturn, is forced to shift careers to the funeral service industry. Unfamiliar with Taoist funeral rituals, he learns from priest Master “Hello” Man (Michael Hui), who specializes in the “Break Hell’s Gate” rite meant to free spirits for transcendence. Though they initially clash due to differing beliefs, the two eventually reconcile and develop mutual respect through shared hardships.
By exploring traditional funeral culture, the film delves into profound reflections on life and death. Variety praised The Last Dance for its portrayal of humanity’s search for meaning amid loss and highlighted its fresh take on the Taoist priest figure once popular in Hong Kong’s 1980s horror-comedy genre.
Director Anselm Chan expressed gratitude, stating: “Being selected as Hong Kong’s Oscar submission is a tremendous honor. I thank the film industry and audiences for their support.”
Since its release, the film has shattered box office records. Within 25 days, it grossed over HKD 100 million (nearly USD 13 million), surpassing Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In as Hong Kong’s highest-grossing local film of 2024. By December 2024, it had earned over HKD 130 million (USD 16.7 million), overtaking The Attorney to become the highest-grossing Chinese-language film in Hong Kong.
At the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards, The Last Dance won five major trophies, including Best Screenplay, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Original Film Score, and Best Original Film Song.
While Hong Kong has frequently submitted films to the Oscars since 1959, none have secured a win. Notable past nominees include Raise the Red Lantern (1991), Farewell My Concubine (1993), and Better Days (2020). Wong Kar-wai’s The Grandmaster was shortlisted in 2013.
The 98th Academy Awards will air on March 15, 2026. The shortlist for Best International Feature Film will be announced on December 16, 2025, with the final five nominees revealed on January 22, 2026.
Sources: VNE
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