Celebrating 25 years with the Hong Kong Film Archive
Nestled on the waterfront in Sai Wan Ho on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island, the Hong Kong Film Archive is the city’s leading institution committed to the collection, preservation, and promotion of its rich cinematic heritage. This modern five-storey building stands as a quiet cultural gem amid the bustling urban environment, just a short walk from Sai Wan Ho MTR Station.
Main entrance of the Hong Kong Film Archive © Culture Plus
In 2026, as it marks its 25th anniversary, the Archive is set to host an exciting array of special programs, exhibitions, and screenings that highlight its dynamic role in celebrating Hong Kong’s film history.
Origin and History
The idea of creating a film archive began to take shape during the 1970s and 80s, with voices from the cultural sector advocating for a film library, eventually evolving into the idea of establishing an archive. At the end of the 1980s, the government officially entrusted a group of experts to carry out a feasibility study, and by 1991, work had begun to create a local film archive.
3 January 2001: Opening Ceremony in Sai Wan Ho. (From left) Paul Leung, Christina Ting, Chow Yun-fat, Donald Tsang, Lam Woon-kwong, Patrick Ho, Pau Shiu-hung. © Hong Kong Film Archive
The Planning Office of the Hong Kong Film Archive was formed in 1993, marking a significant collaboration between the film industry and the cultural sector. The permanent home of the Archive in Sai Wan Ho, was completed and inaugurated on January 3, 2001.
See more photos on Hong Kong Film Archive’s website: HERE.
© Hong Kong Film Archive
An exceptional collection
Thanks to the generous support from numerous film organizations and individuals, the Archive has amassed invaluable resources essential for the promotion and study of Hong Kong’s rich film culture. This includes film elements, digital films, scripts, costumes, cinema tickets, stills, posters, handbills, film programs, and magazines.
To enhance accessibility, there is a searchable online database dedicated to Hong Kong films and filmmakers. This platform allows both researchers and film aficionados to explore this wealth of material, offering search capabilities based on specific criteria like film titles, notable names, or release years. It features not only local talent but also international filmmakers who have made their mark in Hong Kong, encompassing producers, directors, screenwriters, actors, cinematographers, and editors.
Furthermore, the Hong Kong Film Archive plays is pivotal in safeguarding the cinematic heritage by restoring damaged films and ensuring they are stored under optimal conditions by maintaining specific temperature and humidity levels. These diligent preservation efforts guarantee that Hong Kong’s treasures remain available for future generations.
Resource Centre © Hong Kong Film Archive
Facilities open to the public
Covering 7,200 square metres across five floors, the building offers a range of public facilities:
– On the ground floor, a 200 square metre exhibition hall alongside a cozy bookstore.
– The Cinema, located on the first floor, serves as a versatile space for film screenings, conferences, and lectures. It boasts a seating capacity of 125.
– The resource centre on the third floor features an extensive collection of audiovisual materials, books, and periodicals focused on films. While items are not available for borrowing, visitors are welcome to enjoy reading books, magazines, and other film-related materials on-site.
With many exhibitions and screenings available at little or no cost, the venue is a welcoming space for cinephiles, students, families, and casual visitors alike.
Selection of Programmes and Activities
© Culture Plus
75 Years of Cinematic Glamour
Until 5 July
Free
Hong Kong Film Archive
To celebrate the 75th anniversary of Sil-Metropole, the Hong Kong Film Archive has curated over a hundred invaluable pieces of promotional material from its collection.
More details HERE.
ImagineLand 2026: Movie Under the Stars
25 – 26 April
Free
Central Lawn, Salisbury Garden, Avenue of Stars
This outdoor cinema event is part of the Pop Culture Festival 2026, screening the films Last Song For You (2024) and Fly Me to Polaris (1999).
More details HERE.
Fantasies in Reality: A Cinematic Journey
25 April – 7 June
Hong Kong Cultural Centre and Hong Kong Film Archive
This programme, part of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival and the anniversary celebrations, presents 12 restored Hong Kong fantasy classics spanning the 1950s to the post-2000s.
More details HERE.
Hong Kong Film Archive Stories: Treasure Hunting for 25 Years
3 June 2026 – 29 March 2027
Free
Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Drawing on more than 1.3 million film artefacts, this major exhibition will feature rare and historically significant items that trace Hong Kong cinema’s golden eras.
More details HERE.
* * *
The Hong Kong Film Archive is more than just a preservation institution; it is a lively hub that has dedicated 25 years to safeguarding Hong Kong’s moving image legacy. Plan your visit soon – it is a hidden waterfront treasure well worth discovering.
* * *
Hong Kong Film Archive
Address: 50 Lei King Road, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong
Website: https://www.filmarchive.gov.hk