Johnnie To

Johnnie To is a filmmaker who started his career as a messenger for TVB and went on to become a successful director and producer.

Director | Fiction Writer | Producer

April 22, 1955

70

Johnnie To, a renowned Hong Kong film director, producer, and screenwriter, is known for his captivating crime thrillers and stylish direction. Some of his most famous works include “Election”, “Mad Detective”, and “Drug War”. Besides his film career, To has also been involved in several TV shows, such as “The Golden Era of Cantonese Songs” and “Top Gear Hong Kong”, making him one of the most influential filmmakers in Hong Kong cinema history.

Starting his career at the young age of 17 as a messenger for the Hong Kong television studio TVB, To worked his way up to become an executive producer and director for TV shows. He directed his first theatrical feature in 1978 and has since helmed over 50 films in a career spanning more than three decades.

Among To’s most notable films is the divisive yet beloved “A Hero Never Dies”, a heroic bloodshed movie. He has also produced and directed various other popular films, such as “Sparrow”, a lighthearted romantic comedy that demonstrated his versatility as a filmmaker and earned him a nomination for Best Director at the 28th Hong Kong Film Awards.

To’s contributions to the film industry go beyond directing and producing. He has been acknowledged for his impact on Hong Kong cinema and has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. While his name is often associated with dark and gritty crime dramas, To has shown his ability to take risks and explore different genres in his filmmaking. Johnnie To remains a prominent figure in the film industry, leaving a lasting impression on Hong Kong cinema.