Ho Tzu Nyen reimagines Hong Kong cinema in a new commissioned artwork

M+ in Hong Kong unveils Night Charades, an AI-generated animation by Singaporean artist Ho Tzu Nyen, illuminating the museum’s iconic facade from March 22nd to June 29th, 2025. Co-commissioned by M+ and Art Basel, and presented by UBS, the project reimagines Hong Kong’s cinematic past through a futuristic lens, blending digital innovation with the city’s rich film heritage. The animation showcases AI-generated characters performing mimed sequences inspired by classic scenes from the golden age of Hong Kong cinema, referencing the works of John Woo, Wong Kar-wai, Tsui Hark, and other legendary filmmakers.

Ho Tzu Nyen, known for his explorations of historical narratives and cultural identity, has crafted a dynamic, non-linear visual experience where human and non-human figures are bathed in dramatic, Baroque-style lighting. Constantly reshuffled by an algorithm, the piece generates ever-changing combinations of characters and scenes, offering audiences a fresh perspective on the cinematic legacy of Hong Kong.

Museum Director Suhanya Raffel highlights Night Charades as a testament to M+’s commitment to showcasing groundbreaking digital and moving image art. Art Basel Hong Kong Director Angelle Siyang-Le echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the project’s role in linking Asia’s creative past with its global future. The work will be complemented by Ho Tzu Nyen: Investigating Histories, a film program at M+ Grand Stair throughout March, featuring key pieces from the artist’s career.

As part of Art Basel Hong Kong, the commission reinforces the city’s status as a hub for contemporary visual culture. With the illuminated M+ Facade set against Victoria Harbour, Night Charades invites audiences to experience a poetic intersection of history, technology, and cinematic imagination in one of the world’s most vibrant cultural capitals.