Zero to Hero (film)

In 1984, So Wa-wai is born with cerebral palsy caused by severe neonatal jaundice, leaving him with hearing and mobility impairments. Doctors tell his parents that he may never be able to walk or care for himself, but his mother, So Bik-chu, refuses to give up on him. She dedicates herself to raising So while working multiple jobs to support the family, often clashing with her husband, who struggles to accept his son's disability.

Growing up, So is frequently bullied because of his condition. During one encounter, he unexpectedly outruns his attackers, revealing an exceptional natural speed. Recognizing his talent, Bik-chu introduces him to athletics coach Fong Yiu-ming, who recruits him to Hong Kong's para-athletics team. Although So initially lacks confidence and discipline, Fong's demanding coaching and Bik-chu's unwavering support help him develop into a promising sprinter.

As So competes in international competitions, he gradually earns recognition as one of Hong Kong's leading Paralympic athletes. His success culminates at the 1996 Summer Paralympics, where he wins Hong Kong's first Paralympic gold medal. Despite his achievement, he discovers that Paralympic athletes receive significantly less financial support and public recognition than their Olympic counterparts. Frustrated by the disparity, Bik-chu repeatedly speaks out on behalf of the athletes, earning respect from both the sporting community and the public.

Outside athletics, So struggles to balance training with everyday life. Financial pressures force him to work as a courier while continuing to compete internationally. His relationship with his father slowly improves as his sporting achievements earn his family's pride, while his bond with Fong evolves into one of mutual respect. So also begins a relationship that eventually leads to marriage, giving him greater confidence beyond the running track.

As the years pass, Bik-chu's health begins to deteriorate. Although she continues encouraging her son to pursue his dreams, So becomes increasingly concerned about her wellbeing and considers retiring from competition. Fong reminds him that his mother's sacrifices were made so that he could achieve his full potential, convincing him to continue training for the 2008 Summer Paralympics in Beijing.

Competing before a home-region audience, So overcomes intense pressure and physical exhaustion to defend his reputation as one of the world's top para-athletes. Reflecting on the years of hardship endured by his family, particularly his mother's devotion, he delivers a record-breaking performance to win another Paralympic gold medal. His victory finally brings widespread recognition to both himself and Hong Kong's Paralympic movement.

The film ends with photographs and captions detailing the real So Wa-wai's achievements, including his twelve Paralympic medals and his status as Hong Kong's most successful Paralympian, while paying tribute to Bik-chu's role in his success.

• Leung Chung-hang and Mason Fung as So Wa-wai
• Sandra Ng
• Louis Cheung
• Chin Siu-ho
• Lo Hoi-pang
• Mak Pui-tung
• Yeung Wai-lun
• Chung Suet Ying
• Tony Wu

On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 100% of 5 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 6.1/10.^[6]

• List of submissions to the 94th Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film
• List of Hong Kong submissions for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film