Movie lovers packed theatres across Hong Kong on Saturday for the annual Cinema Day, which offered screenings for just HK$30.

At a cinema in Mong Kok, long queues formed outside the venue in the afternoon, with the line at one point stretching well beyond the entrance.

One woman said she and her friends usually spend weekends shopping and relaxing on the mainland, but they decided to stay in Hong Kong specifically for the cheap movie screenings.

She added that she wished such discounts were available more often.

“It would be better if it happened once a month,” she said.

“It could help boost the city’s economy. It will make people want to spend in the city more.”

Some students who had just finished their university entrance exams also took advantage of the offer.

A student surnamed Leung said she loves watching movies with her friends and that the discounted price – which is even lower than regular student tickets – was too good to pass up.

“There are a lot of distractions when you watch movies at home, like playing on your phone,” she said.

“But you will be more focused when you watch in the theatres. I think the vibes are also very different.”

Leung added that Cinema Day is a great activity to share with friends and that holding it more often might help avoid overcrowding.

A visitor from Shenzhen surnamed Li made a special trip to Hong Kong just to catch a film.

She said the atmosphere in the city’s movie theatres is excellent, though she finds regular ticket prices too expensive.

She was thrilled to secure discounted tickets for herself and her friends.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law shared on social media that she also took part in the annual event, watching "Someone Like Me" featuring actress Fish Liew, who recently won Best Actress at the Hong Kong Film Awards.

Law noted that watching movies in the theatre allows for complete immersion and careful appreciation.

According to figures released at noon, she said this year’s cinema attendance increased by nearly 10 percent compared to last year.



Edited by Thomas McAlinden