Cultural Impact of Music in Film and TV: Aesthetic and Filmmaking Approaches in Once a Thief by John Woo and Jing Wong

Abstract

In the era of 1990s seen as a golden age of the Hong Kong film and TV industry, music is considered as a tool to enhance the narrative effect and shape given to the aesthetics of art in the context of culture. In order to examine the cultural reflection and transformation power of music, this study attempts to examine the dynamic relationship between music, culture, and visual storytelling in Hong Kong genre film, with a focus on the adaptations of Once A Thief by directors John Woo and Jing Wong. Adopting a detailed thematic analysis framework with qualitative approach, this study explores how music enhances cinematic experiences by shaping narratives and conveying thematic subtleties within the cultural framework of Hong Kong. Set against the backdrop of Hong Kong’s transformative 1990s film and TV industry, the study situates Once A Thief within its cultural and commercial milieu. It examines how music synchronizes with visuals to create emotional resonance and narrative depth, contrasting Woo’s emotionally charged approach with Wong’s incorporation of humor and local cultural elements. From a musicological perspective, the study finds out how music influences character development and story structure in film and TV narratives. It also reveals themes such as romanticism, consumerism, and the impact of colonial legacies on cultural identity in Hong Kong film. The study also addresses the cultural and ethical dimensions of violence portrayed in these films, shedding light on the moral complexities navigated by filmmakers and audiences alike. By comparing Woo’s and Wong’s directorial styles, the research underscores music’s multifaceted role in Hong Kong film, celebrating its rich legacy and emphasizing its enduring contribution to cultural and cinematic artistry.