TONY LEUNG

With a career that sees several era-defining films and a reach that spans across the globe, the acclaimed Hong Kong actor and singer is often called 'every director's dream. Here, he speaks about his filmography and journey to stardom.

- NICOLE LEE

We are at the end of summer. It is the eve of an approaching typhoon and the skies over Hong Kong are clear without a cloud in sight. The streets glisten under the dazzling sunlight and by nightfall, they are equally beautiful, adorned with neon signs that line the streets, their reflections cast upon the glass windows of skyscrapers.

Film icon Tony Leung Chiu-Wai was the reason our crew travelled to Hong Kong after several months of persistent invitations. He had finally agreed to do a cover shoot and interview for Vogue Taiwan, but only on the condition that the entire process took place in Hong Kong, where he was located. "I don't like flying," Leung remarked.

On the big day, Leung arrived on set 20 minutes early. Having skipped lunch, his only request was for a cup of Hong Kong-style tea with milk. Despite our repeated offers to pick him up in a chauffeured car, I later found out that he had driven himself to the studio. Having come across online articles about Leung's struggles with social anxiety, I made sure to arm myself with a multitude of questions prior to the interview in case our conversation was punctuated by any awkward silences.

Much to my surprise, my fears turned out to be unfounded. Not only was he a very engaging interviewee, but he was also a wonderful conversationalist who answered all my questions enthusiastically and shared his opinions without any reservations.

Our conversation began with the crowning moment when Leung won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 80th Venice Film Festival. Director Ang Lee, who collaborated with Leung on the 2007 film Lust, Caution, presented the award to him, but not before delivering an emotional speech that moved the usually reserved actor to tears. As Leung wiped away his tears, he noted that it wasn't just Lee's speech that moved him but, more importantly, the realisation of how much he meant to the director.