Undercover themes have long been a hallmark of Hong Kong cinema, spanning decades of gritty storytelling. Who could forget Chow Yun-fat’s iconic sunglasses-clad portrayal of Mark in A Better Tomorrow, or the tense rooftop standoff between Tony Leung and Andy Lau in Infernal Affairs, guns pointed at each other in a moment etched into cinematic history?
This summer, the exhibition Undercover Underworld: The Unsung Heroes of Hong Kong Cinema brings these legendary scenes to life. Held at Tai Kwun’s Duplex Studio from August 1 to October 5, the showcase features immersive recreations from seminal undercover-themed films, including the heroic bloodshed classic Hard Boiled, the generational crime saga Century of the Dragon, and the Hong Kong–China co-production Protégé.
Co-curated by film director Sunny Chan Wing-san and Kristof Van den Troost, Assistant Professor of China Studies at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the exhibition invites visitors into the shadowy world of undercover agents—figures caught between duty and deception.
The exhibition features 10 meticulously recreated scenes from landmark local films. Chan’s vision is to explore the psychological depth of undercover characters—individuals who not only brave gunfire but also endure the torment of dual identities. These agents live in constant tension, straddling the line between law enforcement and criminality, in a struggle that tests the limits of morality and humanity.
Gunfire and chaos are staples of the genre. One standout installation recreates the climactic raid from City on Fire, where police storm a tin-sheeted hideout. Using surround sound and dynamic lighting effects, the scene simulates bullets piercing through metal walls, immersing visitors in the heat of battle.
Another highlight is the dramatic car crash scene from The White Storm. Mounted on a steel frame, two vintage 1980s vans appear to burst through a building façade. According to Chan’s social media post, the team sourced and crashed the vehicles in Yuen Long before assembling the wreckage into a striking centerpiece.
Beyond the action, the exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the creative process. Visitors can examine hand-drawn storyboards and handwritten scripts from Infernal Affairs, generously provided by the production team. These artefacts offer insight into the film’s meticulous planning and emotional depth.
Adding to the authenticity, the exhibition also showcases trophies from the prestigious Hong Kong Film Awards, lent by cast members including Tony Leung. These accolades underscore the cultural impact and artistic excellence of the films on display.
