The spotlight returned as the city honoured the best in the film industry with the first onstage ceremony since the pandemic. As occasionally in the past, there were disputes over individual award decisions – this time the crowning of a scandal-hit documentary as best picture. But such controversy is no reason to discredit the achievement of many who continue to produce, entertain and inspire in challenging times.

The return of the red carpet at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre on Sunday was not just symbolic. It has ushered in a new episode after years of intermittent curbs and disruptions to both filming and screening. The gala evening, where old and new faces gathered to showcase and celebrate success, was as much an anticipated event for film lovers as for the industry itself.

The top prize for To My Nineteen-year-old Self, a coming-of-age documentary tracking the lives of six youngsters at Ying Wa Girls’ School over the course of 10 years, would not have become a bone of contention had it not been embroiled in an ethical dispute. Originally a school fundraising project, the presentation by award-winning director Mabel Cheung Yuen-ting was pulled from cinemas after some girls objected to public screenings. It nonetheless clinched the best picture title, despite the school withdrawing from the event.

Controversial school documentary wins best picture at Hong Kong Film Awards

The 41st Hong Kong Film Awards featured fewer movies than normal, owing to last year’s devastating Covid-19 outbreak. But the outcome was pretty favourable considering cinemas were shut for four months. There were also fears the pandemic might have killed off the struggling industry with many previously involved said to have switched to less glamorous jobs to earn a living.