"Some Hong Kong filmmakers began to realize that if they wanted to find new development opportunities, they must put their eyes on the mainland market," Ma said.

The signing of the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement in 2003 provided a "new engine" for Hong Kong films to enter the mainland market, and a large number of Hong Kong filmmakers followed the trend of "going north" to seek development.

Ma's words were echoed by Hong Kong filmmaker Tenky Tin. "The development of mainland films is at its best. The rapid development of the film industry and rich social themes have provided opportunities for Hong Kong filmmakers."

Hong Kong filmmakers will have more room to play their part in the process of integrating into the national development, Tin said.

MAINLAND THEMES

In recent years, it has become popular that Hong Kong film directors cooperate with mainland companies and producers to direct mainstream films, which absorbs the filmmaking elements from Hong Kong's successful commercial films and also gives "China stories" a richer perspective.

From films such as "The Taking of Tiger Mountain" to "The Bravest", "The Captain" and "The Battle at Lake Changjin," it is not hard to see that Hong Kong filmmakers interpret the profound love of the Chinese people for their family and their country well, making mainstream films attractive and box office hits.

"Telling the 'China stories' gives me a great sense of achievement and happiness," said Hong Kong film director Dante Lam, adding that the inspiring stories portrayed under his lens were all created in the context of national development.