Veteran Hong Kong film industry figure Raymond Chow will receive the “TIFF Special Appreciation Award” at the upcoming Tokyo International Film Festival (Oct 20-29), organisers announced today.

Chow, famed founder of Golden Harvest studios, served as a jury member for the Young Cinema Competition at the inaugural edition of TIFF in 1985. Once Upon A Time In China and a revival of Enter The Dragon are among Chow productions that have screened at TIFF.

Chow will be feted on the opening day of TIFF at an awards ceremony along with a retrospective of his international hits including The Cannonball Run.

Chow commented on the accolade: “One of the most prestigious invitations in my life was to be a jury member at the first Tokyo International Film Festival. I am very humbled at being honored with the Special Appreciation Award at the 25th Tokyo International Film Festival. It means a lot to be recognised by my friends in Japan.”

TIFF announces its full lineup on September 20 and is expected to hold special events to celebrate its 25th edition.