Youth I.D.E.A.S., established by the youth research center of the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, interviewed 816 Hong Kong residents between August 25 and September 4 about their opinion on local films.

They gave an average score of 5.95 out of 10, with 10 being “very much appreciated.”

Some 51.2 percent thought the plot is not attractive enough. Around 26.8 percent said the visual effect is mediocre, while others said the movies have poor filming or editing techniques.

A respondent said local movies do not have “bold” themes, and they can hardly be attractive even when they feature famous actors or actresses.

Another respondent said that there are more films co-produced with the mainland movie industry in recent years, making the movies lack Hong Kong characteristics.

With the Hong Kong national security law coming into effect, the government amended the Film Censorship Ordinance to ban films “harmful” to national security.

Those in the movie industry are worried about how the law would be interpreted, and that there would be self-censorship. Room for creativity would be stifled.

Liu Mei-yan, from Youth I.D.E.A.S, said it is of paramount importance to maintain room for creativity when it comes to nurturing cultural and artistic creation.

"The government should listen to industry stakeholders and provide a stable business environment in the long run. The authorities should address the industry's concerns and explain the amendment bill more clearly to boost investors' confidence," Liu said.

In addition, people are not that supportive of the idea that local entertainment productions are the most representative of local culture, and that the same productions can enhance local people's identity – they gave an average score of 6.23 for the former and 6.01 for the latter.