Overview
- Valley of the Shadow of Death, Vital Signs, Finch & Midland and Mother Bhumi were missing from the Jan 13 contenders list despite meeting automatic-eligibility rules.
- HKFA by-laws state that qualifying films need only a 2025 commercial release and minimum screenings, and the association previously said titles cannot be withdrawn.
- Industry reports say internal meetings did not discuss removals, voters received screeners for some affected titles, and at least one film appeared on forms before a later revision.
- Local press reports indicate the Best Asian Chinese-Language Film category does not appear this year, though the association has not confirmed any change.
- Reporters and industry observers are voicing concerns about possible external pressure tied to talent involved, while HKFA responded to queries with only “No comment”; voting closes Jan 23.