Watch Crossing Hennessy

Crossing Hennessy is a 2010 romantic comedy-drama directed by Ivy Ho. The film stars Jacky Cheung, Tang Wei, Ekin Cheng, and Paw Hee Ching. The story revolves around two young people who live in Hong Kong and are set up on a blind date by their parents. The movie is a witty and charming take on modern romance in a traditional cultural setting.

The film focuses on the life of Loy (Tang Wei) and Oi Lin (Jacky Cheung), two people in their thirties who are still trying to find love. Loy works at her father's store, while Oi Lin runs a family restaurant. They both have pressure from their families to find a spouse, causing them to participate in various dating events organized by their friends and relatives. Despite their parents' attempts to match them with someone, Loy and Oi Lin's paths cross several times without them realizing it. Finally, they are set up on a blind date by their parents and are both surprised to see that they had been running into each other all along.

The movie features both humorous and emotional moments, all of which contribute to the film's overall message of hope and happiness. The characters often find themselves in hilarious situations, such as being trapped in an elevator for hours or trying to impress each other with their (nefarious) cooking skills. However, there are also touching moments, such as when Loy reveals her fears of being alone, or when Oi Lin reflects on his past failed relationships.

Throughout the movie, the characters deal with complex emotions and explore themes such as family, cultural customs, and love. Loy feels the pressure to find someone, as she is the last unmarried one in her family. At the same time, she is also battling with her sister's infidelity and her parents' expectations. Oi Lin, on the other hand, is forced to confront his past and reflect on his relationships. He has a daughter from a previous relationship, which complicates his search for a new partner.

The two main characters have great chemistry, and their relationship blossoms gradually rather than through an instant connection, making it feel more realistic. Loy and Oi Lin find themselves attracted to each other, despite their differences. While Oi Lin is more laidback and light-hearted, Loy is often more serious and cautious. They complement each other, challenging each other's preconceived notions and flaws. Ultimately, they learn to be more open to love and to take chances, despite the risks.

The movie's backdrop is set in a traditional part of Hong Kong, where the characters come from a mix of backgrounds. The cultural differences between Loy and Oi Lin add to the humor, where they often misunderstand each other's gestures and customs. The story also features a diverse set of secondary characters, each playing a critical role in the movie's plot. For example, the restaurant's manager is a flamboyant gay man who provides Oi Lin with advice on relationships, and the informant is a mysterious, yet lovable, pigeon trainer, who gives advice on finding love.

The cinematography is beautiful, showcasing Hong Kong's gritty downtown street scenes and the timeless charm of traditional street markets. The soundtrack features an eclectic mix of songs that add to the film's mood, from classic Cantonese pop songs to hip retro beats.

In conclusion, Crossing Hennessy is a delightful romantic comedy-drama that explores the complexities of love, family, and cultural customs. The movie presents characters who are relatable, authentic, and nuanced, making it a refreshing take on the often-told story of romance. It is a heart-warming movie with humor and heart, which leaves the audience feeling optimistic and encouraged to take chances in love.

Crossing Hennessy is a 2010 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.