A new film chronicling a 20-year romance between a Beijing man and a Macao woman debuts Dec. 14, days before the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to China. 

Actor Laurinda Ho (left) and director Tracy Choi speak to China.org.cn about "Promise of Decades" and Macao in Beijing, Dec. 11, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]

"Promise of Decades," co-directed by Tracy Choi and Tong Ka-Fai, follows the couple's relationship against the backdrop of the city's transformation. Choi described it as "a love letter to Macao."

The film follows a meandering romance between Qiao Mingzhuang, a young man from Beijing, and Sandy, a Macao local, portrayed by Ci Sha and Laurinda Ho, respectively. Their initial encounter in Macao serves as a gateway to explore the city's rich heritage and traditions. At the Ruins of St. Paul's, they promise to meet every 10 years for the fireworks display. However, their long-distance relationship encounters various challenges and twists before they can truly reunite two decades later. 

The story tracks pivotal moments in city's history, including its 1999 return to China and subsequent development. This is a transition Choi experienced firsthand. "I remember how we celebrated the handover," she recalled, describing her school's performances marking the historic new chapter. But in the film, she opts for a quieter approach, showing residents watching fireworks from their homes.

For native businesswoman, entertainer and actor Laurinda Ho, the role of Sandy felt like a homecoming. She said, "It seemed fateful, this chance to play someone so similar to myself: lively, outgoing, and a Macao girl."

A poster for "Promise of Decades." [Image courtesy of China Film Group]

The film showcases several iconic locations in Ho's hometown, including spots she has been familiar with since childhood. In one scene, her character sells beef offal near the Hotel Lisboa, which her father built in 1970. "I asked the director, 'Did you plan this on purpose?' But she assured me it was all for the story," Ho laughed. She also noted that there is much more to explore in Macao, including some places she had never visited before, like the Guia Lighthouse, which she discovered during filming.

Choi's direction beautifully melds personal and broader historical narratives, using Macao's transformation as a backdrop. Sandy's character matures over the movie's two-decade span, marked by the construction of symbols like the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the world's longest sea crossing combining bridges and tunnels.

"The bridge was a significant motif," said Ho, recalling her eagerness to experience the bridge, a route previously limited to boat or helicopter.

"The bridge isn't just a physical structure connecting Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macao," director Choi elaborated. "In the film, it symbolizes the connections between people's hearts."

Going northward to China's capital, Choi found working with a Chinese mainland production team to be a new adventure, offering unique challenges and rewards. Working with China Film Co., Ltd. and shooting Ci Sha's scenes in Beijing introduced her to different production methods.

"The way productions are run is quite different, offering us a novel perspective," Choi shared, noting how her experiences mirrored the character Sandy's awe and discovery upon visiting the city.

Choi acknowledged Macao's film industry is young but filled with potential. "We're still at the starting line, but our stories are world-class," she affirmed, pointing out Macao's rich historical tapestry and its distinctive Portuguese influences as untapped cinematic resources.

Looking ahead, Choi remains committed to sharing Macao's untold human stories through film. "There are so many Macao stories to be told and shared," she stated, also expressing eagerness to explore mainland themes.

Ho sees a bright future for her hometown. "Macao has become more diverse and exciting — with theme parks, hotels, and entertainment shows. The city can truly connect us to more experiences," she said, noting its mix of culinary delights, modern performances and historic landmarks."

The cast and crew of "Promise of Decades" pose for a photo at the premiere in Beijing, Dec. 11, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]

Ho plans to highlight Macao's cultural heritage through projects with local museums. This vision speaks to her commitment to her city and its stories, echoing the film's core message of connection and continuity. "As a Macao resident, I definitely hope Macao can get better and better in the future."

Choi hopes her movie will resonate beyond its love story. "I hope people see this film and feel the warmth of the Macao people," she shared.