Faye, finally!
Nice to see you also.
Sit over here.
Sit.
How about some red wine?
Fine.
Take care of them.
Let me introduce you to a friend?
Sure.
Told you not to bring your manager.
Doesn't matter. Come.
You lose. Drink up.
Marco. This is THE Top Manager, Marco.
Faye.
Take a seat.
Sit.
Where're you from?
Hang Zhou.
You speak Cantonese well.
Cheers.
Pretty girl. Can you sing?
A bit.
Let's hear you sing.
Great.
Sounds pretty good.
She has talent.
Didn't you mention she has a manager?
Sure. He's here.
You want to meet him?
Marco, Marco...
Poon Kar Fai.
Have a seat.
I'll leave you to it.
You're Faye's manager?
What of it?
I'm forming a girls band with 7 singers.
I want to sign Faye.
She a songstress?
Even if she's totally tone deaf,
I can guarantee her concerts will be sold out.
I'll sign you up also.
As a singer?
As her caretaker.
Name a price. I want to buy her out.
Not everyone has a price.
What the...?
Excuse me. Carry on.
Let's go.
Faye.
Felt her up enough? Stick this up yours.
What's the outburst about?
Showbiz is complicated. You must be careful.
We're friends. Just fooling around.
Of course he wants to fool around with you.
Think he wants to commit to a long term relationship?
I saw you talking to Marco.
What're you talking about?
Crap.
What crap?
He wants to sign you up for a girls band.
For real?
So what did you say?
He was drunk and incoherent.
Then let's get back and talk to him.
Or set up an appointment.
I turned him down.
Are you insane?
Can't you ask my opinion first?
Isn't it up to me to make these decisions?
You're forever turning things down for me.
I shouldn't do this series. That film's not good.
All these lost opportunities.
What opportunities?
A gaggle of drunken nymphets, lolling around aimlessly.
This a singer and that's a pop star... says who?
You want to be famous?
Learn one thing well. Focus on acting first.
Fine! Fine!
I can't go to this premiere. This movie's not allowed.
And it's forbidden to sign with Marco.
Why have acting skills if it can't be put to use?
Do your own negotiations!
See how many pitfalls you'll come against!
I'm not afraid to make mistakes. It's not just fame I'm after.
I'm young. I see opportunities everywhere.
I don't intend to let a single one escape me.
I don't want to be like you.
Waiting impotently for chances to happen to you!
Ready to take flight.
What are you doing?
I'm leaving.
Why?
Master, you came back in time.
Can I have your scarf as a memento?
Remember that day...
On the set of "Brilliant Love"?
How memorably you taught me to act?
You were so patient, so caring.
I will never forget it.
Don't be like this. What's wrong?
I've made my mind up.
I didn't sleep a wink all night.
I finally realized acting is not suitable for me.
Honestly, you're talented.
Having talent doesn't mean anything.
You're talented too.
But master, I'm still grateful to you.
You've taught me so much.
Some day I'll repay you.
Goodbye, master.
This...
is for you.
It's the poster you did with the Grasshoppers.
It's beautifully shot.
Come on. I'm always foul tempered.
I scold you...
because I care about you.
I'm a has-been. A failed actor.
I don't want you to go astray like me.
Don't you understand?
Stop crying.
Don't be like this.
Stop it.
Master, was my performance good?
You taught me well.
You didn't mean to leave.
You're pulling your teacher's leg?
No...
Master, this is so fantastic.
Where should we hang this?
I think it will look good here.
What do you think?
Glutinous rice balls.
Something to say?
Do you know the director, Gordon Chan?
Sure.
Really? You know each other?
I know who he is but he doesn't know me.
Is he a good director?
Among the best in Hong Kong.
He asked you to audition?
He's making a movie in Japan.
They're looking for a suitable leading lady.
I want to give it a try.
Filming in Japan... and the lead actress.
You think you'd stand a chance?
It's not a role suitable for everyone.
Nudity?
Didn't you say he's a good director?
So what?
You want to strip top and bottom for his sake?
I think it's a wonderful opportunity.
Can't you take me to the audition?
See if it is as you imagine.
The nudity may not be daring at all.
Fine.
Don't regret it.
The story happens in Japan.
She's an innocent at heart.
She encounters numerous obstacles,
She even has to betray her own body.
But she's forever optimistic.
Searching for true love.
Not matter how she suffers,
she remains faithful to her ideals.
Our theme revolves around love and sex.
Inevitably...
all the actors, both male and female,
have scenes of nudity.
We don't want girls simply willing to bare breasts.
I'm seeking actresses...
who truly know how to act.
But who doesn't mind the nudity.
Do you think you have the mindset?
I think I can empathize with the main character.
I have no problem.
Can you put your hands down please?
I wonder...
Is it cold in Japan now?
You're really serious about this film?
First scene, initial encounter with the leading man.
Two words and you start peeling clothes.
Next.
The two of you driving to the restaurant.
Suddenly he stops the car.
You have torrid sex roadside.
Can you dig that?
This description is priceless.
Let loose from conventional morality,
they surrendered to unbridled sensual desires.
Whoever wrote that should be smacked.
Porn, pure and simple.
The director said he aims to do an art film.
Also I think the storyline is plausible.
The film will be submitted to major film festivals.
It's so much hot air.
Who can guarantee it will work out?
If it fails, you'll just be another porn star.
A label you'll forever be branded with.
What will you do then?
I truly find the script touching.
I can respond to it emotionally.
I want to accept the role. OK?
Master, so far you've made all the decisions for me.
This time...
I want to think for myself.
Is that alright?
In that case...
Let Fate decide it.
Fair enough?
Tail says no nudity.
Wait...
Heads says no nudity.
OK.
Don't toss before I confirm it!
You say.
Tail yes... heads no.
Your mind made up?
Yes...
Which side up?
OK. That's it.
Last call.
For sure.
Ready?
OK. Show it to the director.
Director, I feel that,
a shorter length will be more effective.
What do you think?
Do you agree?
We can try it.
Is that OK?
Short looks better. Adjust it.
I'll see to it.
How does it look?
Hitched up to here.
So eager to get naked?
No one asked you to expose yourself to that extent.
Think I'm an exhibitionist?
I'm just doing what's best for my role.
You taught me it's vital to remain true to character.
Of course! The Key to Great Acting!
Should I be playing sexy wearing long johns?
Wearing long johns to play sexy,
that'll really hone your acting skills.
A real challenge.
Fine. When we're on the set...
you'll wear the long johns and show me how.
What set?
What?
Aren't you coming with us?
I wasn't asked to.
That's impossible.
Excuse me, why isn't Fai coming with me?
We have limited budget. Fai understands.
If you want him on the set,
you'll have to pay your own way there.
The money can be deducted from my paycheck.
If you're not there, I'm hopeless.
If I'm not present, you don't know how to act?
You can instruct me to do better.
As your teacher, I've taught you...
everything I know. Fend for yourself from now on.
As your manager...
I've read and negotiated your contract.
If you want me as your nursemaid,
you'd better off hiring an assistant.
I can't go.
How can I bear watching you...
with other men?
Playing torrid love scenes?
It's impossible for me.
It's beyond my acting capability.
I know.
I just want you by my side.
Anything wrong with that?
2 dozen, please.
OK.
It's 2 dozen instant noodles.
Half dozen each of dried dace and spicy pork.
1 dozen chrysanthemum tea.
Are you stocking up? Are we at war?
Invading Japan.
I have atomic bombs. Need some?
How about missiles?
These skincare...
suitable for sensitive skin.
I was told this sunscreen is the best.
Also...
This'll keep you warm in the ice and snow.
But Made in Japan!
These are first aid.
Most important.
Shooting love scenes, give him one to chew,
chew one yourself.
Remember, whatever you decide to do...
do the best you can. Nothing else matters.
That's how an actress should be.
This spray is marvelous.
If you're injured. To disinfect wounds.
Clean it, then spray.
It provides a protective layer.
Eye drops.
For when the tears can't pour...
We're late.
Phone, phone...
Damn it.
Coming right down.
Don't panic if you're faced with any problems.
Calmly analyze it.
or talk to the director.
Don't ever quarrel with director.
If you are at odds with him
even if you give a great performance,
he can still cut out all your best scenes.
As an actress, don't be conspicuous.
Don't be a chatterbox,
The less you blabber about
the more they think you a woman of substance.
Watch what you eat.
Disastrous if your belly sticks out more than your tits.
Get in the car. Hurry.
Good girl.
You have your passport?
Careful crossing the road in Japan.
Go! Go!
Remember this moment. It'll be useful.
We have a plane to catch.
Don't go roaming round by yourself.
It's unfamiliar territory over there.
I'll make you proud of me!
Be terrific!
Think you're scrubbing the sink?
Polish the wax in circular motion.
Use the wrist. Take your time.
You're in the way.
Yes, master!
Stop right there!
I don't take pupils. Not stupid like you.
Duped by a woman.
What do you mean duped?
She used you to boost up the ladder of success.
Now she's a leading lady in Japan.
Once she's picked your brains, you're out of the picture.
Wai. What?
There are zilch acting jobs for me.
I'm trying to learn a craft here.
I beg you.
Deliver me from my sorry plight!
Have pity on me.
Want to quit showbiz?
Try the Buzz Lightyear impersonation at Disneyland.
You look just like him.
Aren't you one to give encouragement!
Quit? You're born to do showbiz.
What else are you good at?
In acting school you're already a fanatic.
Tailing cops to observe how to act like one.
End up being hauled to jail.
I wasn't hauled.
No, never.
That was method acting.
Method acting my foot.
I was first in acting school.
I was raring to blaze my way into showbiz.
A star overnight. Best Actor three years straight.
Even waxing, I tried to explore psychological truths.
What psychology is there to waxing?
There's only technique.
One polish won't make it shine.
You have to polish again and again.
Mom, where's Dad?
He sprained his leg gardening.
Don't want him running around.
Where's Faye?
She left.
She left you?
She's in Japan filming.
Shall I cook noodles?
Let's eat out.
If you have time
let's visit grandma's grave.
It's been a long time since you've paid your respects.
Mom, you think I made a mistake being an actor?
I've never asked your opinion, have I?
Put it this way.
Ask me if I made a mistake marrying your dad.
What's done is done. There shouldn't be regrets.
It's important to do well what's expected.
Your conscience clear when you're past your prime.
Am I right?
Aren't we eating out? Go change.
Tony, weren't you going to change cars?
I'm attached to it.
What're you doing here? Enhancing your value?
I've also applied to be a domestic help.
Paint your face black and pass as a Filipina.
I'll pay you domestic wage - $3,320 per month.
So unscrupulous... How else get rich.
Check the carburetor for me. It's rattling.
No problem.
I thought you were doing a series in China.
Who'd want me?
You're hiding here waxing. Who's able to find you?
Nobody's looking even if I'm not waxing.
You think I'm an Award-winning star?
Award-winning is not the same as "sought after".
After years of ups and downs, I've become philosophical.
Sometimes it's not just the luck.
You're telling me to work hard?
If I hadn't been pedaling and pushing so desperately...
think I could still keep my head up high?
Easier said than done.
What kind of attitude is that?
You're quitting even before you started.
Whatever you do, put your heart into it.
Sooner or later someone's bound to notice.
Ray, yes... This is Poon Kar Fai.
Yeung? Poon Kar Fai here.
No problem. A walk-on will be fine.
Call me.
Good. See you.
Survival in this business means being persistent.
Hanging on kicking and screaming shamelessly?
That's it.
Even if everyone's advising you to abandon ship,
you must stick with it.
As long as you're breathing you'd still stand a chance.
You were good.
Pity we ran out of film in the middle.
Sorry. Doesn't matter...
We'll do another take.
This time I won't keep as close to you.
OK, no problem.
Tape my mouth shut.
This is my resume.
Most of the shows I've done.
Talk about yourself. Why do you like to act?
I don't know why I like acting.
My genes maybe.
But now, acting is everything to me.
It's my self-esteem, my achievement.
The only thing I'm good at.
I know why I'm a better actor than most.
Because I don't accept being the same level as them.
Regardless of whether my performance is poor or not.
I'm still unique.
I despise those who claim to be actors...
but just witlessly go through the motions.
I don't like to beg.
Not now and never will.
I'm not asking for sympathy.
If I'm given a part because I'm pitied,
than I'd rather refuse it.
If I had to choose, I'd rather die.
I want to continue acting...
because I need to answer to myself.
I have to convince myself I'm right all along.
Since I was a child I've always believed in myself.
I composed this spiel in the car...
on my way here.
Cut! Mark it! Mark it...
Director, it that OK?
Fine.
Can we break for dinner?
OK.
Fai, dinner?
No, thanks.
When did you leave the TV studio?
Not long after you left.
Disenchanted by my outbursts?
I hated you when you screamed at me.
But when I saw you act, I forgave you everything.
It's for you.
I've quit smoking.
Also drinking less.
Thanks.
After a few months you're a different person!
When are you leaving?
Tomorrow morning.
So soon?
The director wants me to arrive in Beijing earlier.
I need martial training for 3 months before they shoot.
I'll be gone 9 months.
It'll flash by. Treasure this chance of a lifetime.
I know.
You too.
What time will you get back?
Don't know. Maybe 2 or 3 A.M..
I'll wait for you at home.
Back on set!
Get to work. I'll look around by myself...
I have lots to talk to you about.
Let me explain the next scene.
Camera starts from Dan's side.
Then it tracks round when he says his lines.
He suspects there's an informer.
You're a bit stunned...
thinking he's talking about you.
So should I...
feign calmness or act nervous?
I think...
you'd tense up, then try to cover it.
We've botched up because there's a snitch.
NG...
What's up?
Isn't it better to have the girl...
being shoved and falling down?
Cut!
When you grab his hand,
use your other arm to strangle him.
We'll lower the camera.
That side's better.
Push then grab like this...
the goon behind you will struggle with you.
You grab him with this hand.
The camera will pan down to the gun...
In the scuffle the gun drops.
The camera pans down and you kick it away.
Action!
You betrayed me?
OK?
Cut...
Are you OK?
Get someone to give it a shove.
Move faster so Scar can get into position...
to push the barrels.
Almost. Not enough force.
Scar was too slow.
I was waiting around here...
for him to catch me.
In this next scene...
after I'm shot in the back and looking at Jo.
I'd take the ring out.
Is it possible that I'll stumble over...
I'll come as close as I can, she points the gun.
She shoots, then I show her the ring.
Not a bad idea.
See if you like this...
I want to set off the charges myself.
What I want to do is...
Seeing she's prepared to fire,
I'd just stand here and let her shoot me.
I don't think I can react fast enough.
Let me set it off.
It'll looks more unexpected.
Faye.
I've taken the smell of you with me.
It'll give me warmth.
Fai, I'm leaving.
After completing Mr. Chang's movie,
I'm going to Japan to further my career.
No matter what, I'll always remember you.
You will always... always...
be the best actor in my mind.
Thank you...
Time for your medicine.
Stop drinking now.
Quit moving around. Sit still.
Hasn't started yet.
So crowded. Can't even see him.
We'll see him when he wins.
Win what?
Shut up. Just watch TV.
Kar Fai, this side...
Smile. One more photo...
You're nominated for Best Supporting Actor.
Are you confident?
I wouldn't be here...
if I didn't think I'd have a chance.
We think you performed better than the lead actor.
What do you think?
No. I...
I just did my best.
I think you should be Best Actor.
Next year.
Better chance next year.
How does it feel walking down the red carpet?
It was exhilarating.
Very special.
If you win, who will you celebrate with?
How about with you!?
Thanks. Have to go.
Everyone pretending to be calm,
pretending not to care.
Tonight we're honored to have with us...
Faye Ng who's making a splash in Japan...
in the hit movie "Beautiful Times",
to present the Best Supporting Actor.
Please welcome, Faye Ng.
Fai.
Use it to wipe sweat or anything else.
Keep it handy.
Are you toying with me?
Take it.
Good evening.
To be invited to present this award for Best Supporting Actor,
I am honored and excited.
Maybe you're not aware that...
before I did "Beautiful Times",
I was just another extra.
But I was fortunate.
I met a teacher and good friend.
He taught me acting,
and recognizing the truth of the moment in life.
He stressed that in real life...
there's no such thing as Main and Supporting.
Therefore every role, no matter how minor,
you should treat like a leading role.
Pour your heart into it.
The 5 nominees in the audience...
must be nervous.
Without much further ado, please look at the large screen.
The nominees of the Best Supporting Actor of...
the 25th Hong Kong Film Awards are...
Jack Chan for "Endless Love",
Choi Fai for "The Last Assault",
You're not like the others. Stay calm.
It should be your turn.
Warner Lam for "Invincible".
I now announce that...
the Best Supporting Actor...
of the 25th Hong Kong Film Awards is...
No matter what you think of me, good or bad,
I'd still go all out for my every effort.
Pretending it's right when it's not, turning a blind eye
I can't do that.
Not then, not now.
Never in future.
Regardless of what you think of my ability...
I know I'm good.