The critically acclaimed Hong Kong adaptation of Richard Linklater’s psychological drama Tape is coming to UK cinemas. Showalker U.K. has acquired the distribution rights, and the film will premiere at the 2025 Raindance Film Festival, bringing a unique East-meets-West story to British audiences.
Directed by Bizhan Tong, this Cantonese-language reimagining of Tape brings the intense story of three friends confronting a dark secret from their past into a contemporary Hong Kong setting. Richard Linklater himself, along with John Sloss and Stephen Belber, served as executive producers, with Belber also co-writing the script alongside Tong.
The film stars prominent Asian actors Kenny Kwan, known from The White Storm 3, Selena Lee of Barrack O’Karma fame, and Adam Pak, who appeared in Paradox. The atmospheric score was composed by British musician Keaton Henson, and it’s worth noting that the film’s post-production was completed in London, highlighting its UK connection even before distribution.
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Bizhan Tong shared his thoughts on the film’s journey: “It’s an honor to premiere at Raindance, especially with a film that bridges cultures so deliberately. This project represents a rare East-meets-West creative collaboration, with support from legendary Hollywood voices alongside a Hong Kong cast and crew. It’s a reminder that Hong Kong cinema has global stories to tell and that collaboration doesn’t dilute identity but amplifies it.”
Showalker U.K.’s Inaugural Release
The acquisition of Tape marks a significant moment for Showalker U.K., a new distribution company founded by Hong Kong producer and entrepreneur Linus Leung. The company aims to focus on bringing culturally distinct yet commercially viable Asian cinema to the UK market, including films from Hong Kong, South Korea, and Japan.
Leung expressed his enthusiasm for Tape as their first release: “Tape is a bold and timely project that perfectly reflects Showalker U.K.’s mission: to bridge cultures through cinema that is both artistically resonant and commercially dynamic. This remake not only honors Linklater’s original vision but reimagines it with a uniquely Hong Kong voice that speaks powerfully to global audiences.“
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To help promote the film and reach a wider audience, HK Movie6, a Hong Kong online film platform, will be the official media partner for the UK release. This partnership aims to connect with both Asian cinema enthusiasts and diaspora communities across the UK.
Before its UK debut, Tape had pre-release screenings in Hong Kong and secured distribution across several Asian territories, indicating strong initial reception. This UK deal further solidifies its international reach.
