Master Man is a serious-minded Taoist priest dealing with his family’s many trials and tribulations. Dominic is a businessman whose wedding planning firm has recently collapsed. When Dominic eyes an opportunity in the funeral trade, the pair become unlikely business partners. Master Man’s stubborn adherence to tradition and Dominic’s embarrassing blunders lead to a tense start for their partnership. However, both men soon discover they have much to learn from each other.
Anselm Chan’s film has proven a smash hit in its native Hong Kong. It’s not hard to see why: this is a warm, charming film that delicately balances its comedy and drama. It also offers a fascinating, sensitively handled insight into funeral traditions and rituals in the region.
Dir: Anselm Chan
Cast: Dayo Wong, Michael Hui, Michelle Wai
Film info: 126 mins. Hong Kong. 2024. 12A (IFCO) / 12A (BBFC)
In Cantonese with English subtitles
“★★★★ A life-affirming gem of a film.” – Edmund Lee, South China Morning Post
“Worth watching… for the strong performances across the board and for the sensitively handled insights into Taoist death rituals.” – Wendy Ide, The Observer
“A poignant drama about finding meaning in life from the passing of loved ones and the rituals of final farewells.” – Richard Kuipers, Variety
