Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In Exhibition that Once Stunned Visitors at Hong Kong International Airport
Written by Fête chinoise Editorial Team
Photography: Calvin Lee Photography
Twilight of the Warriors: Walled in winning Best Film at the 43rd Hong kong Film Awards. Photo source: Hong Kong Film Awards Association Ltd.
Following its sweep of nine awards at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards, Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In continues to captivate audiences with its richly detailed world. Winning Best Art Direction, the film’s production team built the entire Kowloon Walled City from scratch, crafting a set so authentic that it feels like real life unfolding within its maze-like alleys.
Since its release, the film’s immersive set design and atmosphere have drawn widespread praise, inspiring a surge of Kowloon Walled City–themed events and attractions across Hong Kong.
Kowloon Walled City was once the most densely populated place on Earth — a lawless labyrinth of interconnected buildings in Hong Kong, home to tens of thousands before its demolition in the 1990s. Over the years, it became both a source of urban legend, captivating imaginations worldwide with its chaotic yet tightly knit community. As an iconic (and now lost) piece of Hong Kong’s social history, the Kowloon Walled City continues to spark fascination, its myths and mysteries still deeply resonating with the public today.
Recognising the overwhelming enthusiasm and the film’s international acclaim, the Hong Kong government partnered with the filmmakers to present the “Live Out the Cinematic Charm of Hong Kong” Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In Exhibition in October 2024.
The exhibition, which previously made its way through Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) Arrival Hall A, brought visitors into the cinematic world of the film, featuring a striking two-story set standing 6.5 metres tall, crowned by a massive "Kowloon Walled City" neon sign. Spanning six main areas, the exhibition mirrored scenes from the movie, including a barber shop, a tea stall, general stores, an attic, and the Walled City’s signature narrow, winding alleys.
As Chan finds home and friends in a hidden attic in the Walled City, the story of the warriors unfurls in humble settings familiar to Hong Kong people. Details such as the ceiling fan, mahjong table and beer crates reflect the meticulousness of the crew. Also look for the electronic poster for a modern rendition of the heritage.
The tea stall is a key social spot, where residents of the Walled City gather in the movie. Look for the replica of Cantonese rotisserie food and the cha siu rice on the table, a token of friendship between the movie characters.
The two-phase exhibition has wrapped up, but following its success at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards, the film’s official social media has hinted that the film will return to cinemas on May 1st. As for upcoming exhibitions or events, there could be more on the horizon! Stay tuned for any exciting updates.
More From Fête Chinoise
Toronto will welcome a new addition to its cultural calendar this spring with the inaugural Pride Asian Film Festival (PAFF), taking place from May 29 to June 1, 2025, at Cineplex Cinemas Empress Walk. Presented as an official affiliate of Pride Toronto, the festival aims to highlight East Asian cinema while centering LGBTQ2S+ voices and gender-diverse storytelling.