Organizers of the Asian Film Awards (AFA), one of the region’s most prestigious cinema honors, announced on the 4th that the 19th edition of the ceremony, scheduled for 2026 in Hong Kong, will be significantly scaled back. In the wake of the massive fire that devastated the city last year—causing the worst casualties in decades—the academy has decided to cancel the standard competition selection and the red carpet event.
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Transitioning to a “Solemn and Minimalist” Ceremony
According to the Asian Film Awards Academy (AFAA), the 19th ceremony, slated for March 2026, will diverge sharply from its traditional glitz and glamour. The academy is suspending its usual competitive format, which typically pits nominees against one another for honors such as Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, and various technical awards. Instead, the event will shift to presenting a limited number of “Special Awards.”
Organizers described the pivot as a move to conduct the proceedings in a “solemn and minimalist manner.” While the event will still recognize achievements in the film industry, all festive and celebratory elements are expected to be eliminated to reflect the prevailing mood of the city.
The Hong Kong Fire Tragedy Behind the Decision
The impetus for this drastic reduction is the unprecedented tragedy that struck the host city. The fire, which broke out in a Hong Kong housing estate last year, resulted in over 150 fatalities and left thousands homeless, marking the deadliest disaster the city has witnessed in decades.
Dr. Wilfred Wong, Chairman of the AFAA, addressed the decision in a statement:
“This is a decision made after careful deliberation. In the current environment, we believe that holding the ceremony in a solemn and simplified format is the most appropriate measure. Out of respect for all sectors of society, we have chosen to honor filmmakers in a restrained manner.”
The organizers also cited the psychological weight the disaster continues to place on citizens and the local film community. Furthermore, the decision aligns with the Hong Kong government’s current stance, which has recommended postponing official celebrations and maintaining a subdued tone for public events for the time being.
Social Climate and the Nature of Film Awards
Deep grief persists in the affected areas, rendering public sentiment highly sensitive regarding large-scale celebratory events. While authorities have called for caution as the community grapples with the loss and its aftermath, the atmosphere remains tense regarding civic activities and demands for independent inquiries into the disaster.
Within this complex social and political context, the AFA intends the 2026 event not to be a “gala,” but rather a platform for “respectful recognition” of the region’s filmmaking achievements.
Future Outlook and AFA’s Role
Established in 2007, the Asian Film Awards have grown into a major regional institution, shining a spotlight on cinema and talent from Japan, South Korea, India, Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia. Traditionally held immediately prior to FILMART, the massive content market in Hong Kong, the awards have functioned as a vital networking hub for the industry.
Although the decor and production of the ceremony will be scaled down, the AFAA emphasized that its core mission remains unchanged: “To support Asian cinema through screenings, educational programs, and sustained industry support.”
For reference, at the previous ceremony, Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine as Light took home the Best Film award. From Japan, Daihachi Yoshida won Best Director for The Enemy (Teki), and Hong Kong’s Sean Lau secured Best Actor for his role in Papa.
Details regarding the recipients of the 2026 Special Awards and the specific program schedule will be announced closer to the event date.