Movies by Nick Cheung Ka-Fai

Nick Cheung Ka-Fai is a Hong Kong filmmaker whose gritty, visually-striking crime thrillers have made him one of the most compelling voices in contemporary Asian cinema. With a keen eye for atmosphere and an unflinching approach to complex moral dilemmas, Cheung's films explore the murkier corners of the human experience, delving into the desperation and violence that can take hold when individuals are pushed to their limits. Emerging in the mid-2010s with gripping supernatural thrillers like Keeper of Darkness and Hungry Ghost Ritual, Cheung quickly established a distinctive style, blending gritty realism with flashes of the uncanny. His 2018 crime drama The Trough, a taut cat-and-mouse tale of a detective hunting a serial killer, showcased his talent for crafting morally complex narratives that defy easy categorization. The film was a critical hit, cementing Cheung's reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to delve into society's underbelly. Cheung's most recent work, 2025's Peg O' My Heart, continues this thematic exploration, centering on the plight of a desperate single mother forced to make impossible choices. With its searing performances and unflinching depiction of urban poverty, the film has drawn comparisons to the social realist dramas of the Dardenne brothers, solidifying Cheung's status as a director unafraid to tackle the harsh realities of the human condition. As he continues to push the boundaries of the crime genre, Nick Cheung Ka-Fai has emerged as a vital voice in world cinema, captivating audiences with his singular vision and unwavering commitment to exploring the darkest impulses of the human spirit.