The Last Waltz: Hong Kong drama between funeral and renewal

Published by Julie de Sortiraparis · Updated on September 25, 2025 at 06:00 p.m. · Published on September 24, 2025 at 06:00 p.m.
Anselm Chan's drama The Last Waltz (Po - Dei Juk), starring Dayo Wong, Michael Hui and Michelle Wai, opens in cinemas on November 12, 2025.

The Last Waltz is a Hong Kong drama film directed by Anselm Chan and starring Dayo Wong Chi-Wah, Michael Hui and Michelle Wai. Set in a contemporary context marked by the economic upheavals of the pandemic, the story explores the trajectory of a wedding planner in search of professional and personal reinvention. This drama blends tradition, modernity and reflection on the meaning of farewells.

The Last Waltz trailer

The trailer illustrates the film's blend of humor, emotion and traditional rituals, while introducing the main characters.

Where and when can you see The Last Waltz?

The Last Waltz will be released in cinemas from November 12, 2025.

Synopsis: As the pandemic plunges most industries into recession, Dominic, a debt-ridden wedding planner, sees an unexpected opportunity to turn things around: a retiring funeral planner entrusts his business to him. Using his ingenuity, Dominic adds a creative touch to funeral ceremonies, leading his business to unexpected success. But he soon faces his greatest challenge: winning the esteem of Master Man, a respected Taoist priest fiercely attached to tradition. Through a series of singular funerals, Dominic gradually learns Master Man's code of ethics and discovers the true significance of each farewell.

A cast led by Dayo Wong and Michael Hui

At the heart of The Last Waltz is actor and comedian Dayo Wong Chi-Wah, already known for his roles in popular Hong Kong comedy-dramas. Alongside him, Michael Hui, a key figure in Asian cinema, adds a traditional, solemn dimension. Finally, Michelle Wai, an up-and-coming actress who has made a name for herself in local productions, completes this intergenerational cast.

Tradition and modernity in funeral rites

The screenplay is based on a theme that rarely comes to the fore in mainstream cinema: the world of funerals in Hong Kong. This subject is explored through a contrasting approach between innovation and attachment to customs. The film highlights Taoist rituals, the symbolism of farewells and the confrontation between new commercial practices and spiritual values. This cultural dimension is one of the narrative pillars of the film.

Who is The Last Waltz for?

This drama could be of interest to audiences with a taste for intimate, social narratives, sensitive to human dilemmas and tales of transformation. Audiences drawn to films such as Departures (Okuribito) or The Farewell may find this work to their liking. Fans of contemporary Asian cinema, as well as those curious to discover cultural representations of death and mourning, should also be intrigued by this original subject.

The essentials about The Last Waltz

Directed by Anselm Chan, The Last Waltz (original title: Po - Dei Juk) is a Hong Kong drama featuring an iconic cast. Part situation comedy, part reflection on the meaning of life and death, the story takes a unique look at the ability to reinvent oneself in the face of hardship. By combining religious traditions, economic issues and universal questions, the film promises to be a rich proposition for viewers in search of stories that are both local and universal.

This article is based on information available online; we have not yet viewed the film or series mentioned.

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Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
Starts November 12, 2025

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.
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