Romantic comedy Far Far Away is not only a sprawling showcase of Hong Kong's picturesque rural landscape, but also director Amoy Why's heartfelt love letter to his hometown. The film centres on geeky Kaki Shum's friendship and romantic link with five attractive women who all live in remote corners of Hong Kong. Sounds like Beauty and the Beast in live action? It does but the film works well as a lighthearted tale about finding love from near and afar, boosted by occasional laughs and euphoric music from local indie bands.
The female leads - A. Lee, Cheung Man-ga, Hanna Chan, Rachel Leung and Jennifer Yu - prove they have more to offer than just pretty faces, and Yu, as Shum's ultimate love interest, shines and sparks the biggest chemistry with Shum whom she starred in Distinction with before. The film's strong local flavour cannot be more obvious as Why takes the audience on an intimate journey to discover Hong Kong's hidden gems through some of the most secluded and scenic spots where the girls live. It's one of the most refreshing Hong Kong films recently and definitely a trip worth taking on.