Film Review: Remember What I Forgot 曾經擁有(2022) - Hong Kong
Rating: 6.5/10
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Full Review:
https://neofilmshop.com/blogs/news/film-review-remember-what-i-forgot-2022-hong-kong
In “Remember What I Forgot” director Keian Chui Tze-yiu presents a nostalgic journey through the quirks of Hong Kong's cinematic landscape, drawing audiences into the eccentric world of a film fanatic. The film, which was shot in 2017 but remained on the shelf until now, emerges as a bittersweet comedy-drama that reflects on the cultural fabric of local cinema.
At its heart, the story revolves around Kim, played by the ever-charismatic Philip Keung Ho-man. Kim is an enigmatic figure, a passionate film nerd who becomes a fixture at movie sets and promotional events, often without any legitimate reason to be there. His peculiar behavior and unyielding enthusiasm for cinema capture the attention of TV producer Ginger (Fish Liew Chi-yu) and her cameraman Fat Sausage (Eric Tsui Ho-cheong). They decide to make Kim the subject of their reality show, hoping to expose him as an infamous internet critic known for his questionable ethics.
Chui's film shines when it indulges in the humor and nostalgia of Hong Kong cinema, offering delightful insights into a world that often goes unnoticed. The script is peppered with moments that resonate with anyone who has ever felt a deep connection to the movies, yet it falters when it shifts gears to explore Kim's personal life. The narrative struggles to maintain focus, leading to a disjointed experience that undermines the emotional weight of its central themes.
While the film's pacing occasionally drags, the performances of the cast, particularly Keung, provide a grounding force. His portrayal of Kim is both endearing and maddening, embodying the complexities of a character caught between his love for cinema and the realities of life.
“Remember What I Forgot” ultimately serves as a love letter to the fervent cinephiles of Hong Kong, even if it stumbles in its execution. Chui's debut is an earnest attempt to weave comedy with heartfelt reflection, leaving viewers with a bittersweet sense of nostalgia—an invitation to remember not just what we forgot, but what we cherish. (Neo, 2025)