Kowloon Walled City: A Cinematic Journey

Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In — From Screen to Exhibition, Hong Kong’s Story Reimagined

When Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In won Best Picture at the Hong Kong Film Awards, it felt like more than a movie triumph. It was a celebration of Hong Kong cinema, storytelling, and memory. Set in the infamous Kowloon Walled City, the film captured global attention with its gritty narrative and breathtaking sets — more than 50 of them, all built by Hong Kong professionals to bring a lost world back to life.

From Reel to Reality

Now, those sets have returned to where it all began: Kowloon Walled City Park, built on the very site of the former settlement. After exhibitions at Hong Kong International Airport and Airside Mall, the sets are once again open for exploration.

The immersive experience begins with a hand-painted ceremonial flower board and an iron arch reading “Kowloon Walled City.” Inside, visitors find iconic recreations — No. 7 Restaurant, a barbershop, dental and bone-setting clinics, grocery stalls — each carefully designed to echo daily life inside the Walled City.

A highlight is the rooftop scene: bamboo chairs, shifting day-to-night projections of the skyline, and the roar of low-flying planes from nearby Kai Tak Airport. The attention to detail celebrates not just the Walled City, but the craftsmanship of Hong Kong’s film industry.

The Story That Inspired It

After the cinematic journey, visitors can explore Kowloon Walled City Park, now a tranquil Chinese-style garden with preserved remnants of the old walls. The surrounding neighbourhood offers classic Cantonese eateries, markets, and a glimpse of Hong Kong’s multicultural character.

A Celebration of Hong Kong Cinema

Set in the 1980s, the film follows Chan Lok-kwan, a troubled youth who enters the Walled City after being betrayed by crime boss Mr. Big. Seeking refuge, he encounters Cyclone, the local ruler whose authority blends toughness with compassion.

As Lok-kwan bonds with Cyclone’s community, he discovers that the Walled City is not only a haven for outlaws but also a place of resilience and solidarity. The film’s blend of chaos, loyalty, and survival resonated deeply with audiences, reflecting Hong Kong’s own spirit.