Hong Kong movie superstar Tony Leung was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 80th Venice Film Festival on the 2nd. This accolade makes him the first ethnic Chinese actor to receive such a distinction. During the award presentation, which was handed over by renowned director Ang Lee, Leung was moved to tears, a rare show of emotion from him. While many from Hong Kong were touched and offered their congratulations, there was a buzz on Xiaohongshu, a popular social platform, where Mainland Chinese netizens were discussing Tony Leung. Some went on to criticize him on various fronts, including his attire at the award ceremony, his acting skills, appearance, age, etc. They compared him unfavorably to another Hong Kong actor of the same generation, implying the latter has aged better.
The 80th Venice Film Festival is currently underway. The globally recognized Chinese cinema icon, Tony Leung, was awarded the Golden Lion Lifetime Achievement Award. The presentation was conducted by director Ang Lee, who had previously collaborated with Leung on the movie “Lust, Caution.” Ang Lee’s heartfelt speech during the ceremony moved Leung to tears. However, every award has its supporters and detractors. Mainland netizens on Xiaohongshu fervently discussed Leung’s recognition. But their comments weren’t just about the award. They evaluated Leung on various aspects like his attire, acting, looks, age, and so on.
Netizens from Mainland China mocked Tony Leung’s suit at the Venice Film Festival, saying it looked like “a child wearing adult clothes.” They also criticized the length of his trousers and pointed out that his attire accentuated his lack of height. Comments included: “To be honest, his fashion sense isn’t great.” “How did we never notice how short he is? Is the HK media covering for him?” “Give credit where it’s due. He’s a good actor, but that outfit isn’t great.”
Apart from his attire, some netizens labeled him as having “an old man vibe,” and others said, “Honestly, I’ve never found his acting exceptional, especially compared to Stephen Chow.” Some comments even downplayed his lifetime achievement recognition.
However, there were supporters as well. Some comments read: “Really? People are criticizing Tony Leung now?” “There seems to be a growing number of nitpickers nowadays.” “Regardless of his attire, it doesn’t affect his stature in the industry.” “Times have changed, and now even Leung’s looks are scrutinized?” Many came to his defense highlighting his phenomenal performances in movies like “Chungking Express,” “In the Mood for Love,” “Happy Together,” “Infernal Affairs,” “2046,” and “Lust, Caution.”
Some mentioned how Tony Leung, in real life, is quite casual and without airs, even jogging around with a baseball cap. They admire him for leading a life close to the average person and aging naturally. Considering Leung is now 61, aging is entirely normal. Echoing director Ang Lee’s words, “Any film is elevated by his (Tony Leung’s) presence. A single look from Tony Leung surpasses many actors’ lengthy monologues, guiding you through dreams and touching your soul.”