McDonald’s Hong Kong recreates its first restaurant in 10-Minute short film via DDB Group

As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, McDonald’s Hong Kong is taking audiences back to where it all began through a 10-minute micro-film that nostalgically recreates the opening of its first restaurant in 1975. Created in collaboration with DDB Group Hong Kong, the film continues the brand’s anniversary storytelling.

With authentic period décor, original store design, 1970s uniforms, and meticulously recreated packaging, the film transports viewers to that pivotal opening day 50 years ago, told through the eyes of Hong Kong’s very first McDonald’s restaurant manager, “Manager Chu”. Based on the true story of opening day, it captures the excitement and uncertainty, as well as the brand’s early connection with the community.

Brought to life by a team of acclaimed, award-winning filmmakers, including art director Man Lim Chung, editor William Chang Suk Ping, music composer Chan Kwong Wing, and visual effects specialist Victor Wong, the film sets a historic benchmark for commercial video production in Hong Kong. The film stars Hong Kong icon Nicholas Tse as ‘Manager Chu’, leading a cast of over 300, including McDonald’s employees. Tse’s longstanding relationship with the brand includes work as brand ambassador and celebrity chef behind popular menu creations.

Following its TVB premiere, the film and shorter versions will be released alongside behind-the-scenes footage and interviews across social media, based on OMD Hong Kong’s media plan, offering a glimpse into the ambitious production.

“This film is more than a tribute to our history,” said Randy Lai, CEO of McDonald’s Hong Kong. “It’s a reminder of the optimism, teamwork and community bonds that have been at the heart of McDonald’s since the very beginning. We are grateful to the many people who shared their exceptional talents on this project to capture the essence of a time and place, and of our brand.”

Andreas Krasser, CEO of DDB Group Hong Kong, commented, “Nostalgia is a powerful force, especially in a city as dynamic as Hong Kong. This film is a great way of honouring the deep shared history between McDonald’s and the people of Hong Kong.”

Hong Kong people will have a chance to step back in time and personally experience McDonald’s as it was 50 years ago through a full recreation of the original 1975 Paterson Street store, presented as a public exhibition at Freespace in West Kowloon. The exhibition will run from October 1st to 19th and also feature a nostalgic showcase of iconic toys, packaging and other memorabilia from different eras, offering a full sensory journey through McDonald’s heritage in Hong Kong.

From September 17, McDonald’s will bring back the popular Bolognese and Fried Egg Angus Burger and other special menu items by Chef Nic (Nicolas Tse), as part of the “My Taste of Hong Kong” campaign.