```html Hong Kong's "Four Trails" Secures U.K. Distribution, Opens Odyssey Film Festival

Hong Kong documentary "Four Trails," a surprise box office hit, has secured U.K. theatrical distribution and will open the annual Odyssey film festival in London on Sept. 15. The film's success highlights the growing international appeal of Hong Kong cinema and the enduring fascination with extreme endurance challenges.

Ultra-Marathon Doc Conquers Box Office and Festivals

"Four Trails," directed by Robin Lee and produced by Ben Lee, documents the grueling "Four Trails Ultra Challenge" created by Andre Blumberg. The challenge requires participants to complete Hong Kong's four major ultra-distance trails, a cumulative distance of 298 kilometers with a staggering 14,500 meters of elevation gain – nearly twice the height of Mount Everest. The film has grossed nearly HK$11 million ($1.4 million) in Hong Kong, becoming the second highest-grossing documentary in the region's cinematic history.

The U.K. distribution deal, brokered through NGO U.K.-China Film Collab, signifies a growing interest in Hong Kong-produced content in international markets. The film's selection as the opening night feature for the Odyssey film festival further underscores its appeal.

A Challenge of Willpower, Not Prizes

The Four Trails Ultra Challenge stands out for its lack of conventional rewards. Participants receive no prizes or medals. Finishers are those who complete the course in under 60 hours, while those completing it within 72 hours are designated as "survivors." Over its 14-year history, only 104 individuals have successfully completed the challenge, solidifying its reputation as one of the world's toughest ultra-marathons.

Expert Perspective: The Allure of Endurance Documentaries

"The popularity of 'Four Trails' reflects a broader trend in documentary filmmaking," notes Dr. Emily Carter, a film studies professor at the University of London specializing in Asian cinema. "Audiences are increasingly drawn to stories of human resilience and the exploration of physical and mental limits. These films offer a vicarious experience of pushing boundaries, resonating with viewers on a deeply emotional level."

Critical Acclaim and Audience Enthusiasm

The film has garnered widespread acclaim, including praise from Hong Kong superstar Chow Yun-fat, who urged every Hong Konger to see it. Robin Lee won the best new director prize at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards, where the film also received a nomination for best film editing. The Hong Kong Film Directors Guild executive committee bestowed a special award, and the Hong Kong Film Critics Society recognized it as a film of merit. The documentary also won the audience award at the 21st Hong Kong Asian Film Festival.

Nikki Han, the first female finisher of the Four Trails Ultra Challenge, shared her profound experience: "What I gained over those many hours on the trails will stay with me forever. They are with me every day. They are the trophy."

Global Festival Circuit and U.K. Release

"Four Trails" has screened at several international film festivals, including the Shanghai International Film Festival and the Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy. It is also scheduled to screen at the Golden Horse Film Festival in Taipei. Other festival appearances include Adelaide, Beijing, Boulder, Melbourne, New York, and Toronto, with upcoming screenings in Bangkok, Berlin, Kuala Lumpur, Lisbon, London, Paris, Seoul, Taipei, and Tokyo.

A theatrical release in Singapore is also planned. The Odyssey film festival opening on September 15 at the Everyman Cinema, Broadgate, will mark the film's U.K. premiere. This year's festival focuses on the theme of "Sports." U.K.-China Film Collab will handle the film's U.K. theatrical distribution, with an initial release date set for Oct. 30.

The U.K.-China Film Collab's Role

The U.K.-China Film Collab, known for its work on films like "The Six," "Lust, Caution" (U.K. re-release), and "The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru," plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the British and Greater China film industries. Their involvement in distributing "Four Trails" highlights their commitment to showcasing diverse cinematic voices.

Director's Vision

"We are delighted that Robin has accepted our invitation as 'Four Trails' is the perfect film with which to open the festival," said Hiu Man Chan, artistic director of Odyssey.

Robin Lee expressed his excitement about bringing the film to the U.K., stating, "Since its release, the U.K. has been one of the most demanded locations for the film to be released in, so I am thrilled to finally bring 'Four Trails' to the U.K. Not only do I hope the film will resonate with Hong Kong, Chinese audiences in the region but also local sport enthusiasts, documentary lovers and general audiences. One of the biggest aims was to make this documentary accessible to everyone and anyone that loves cinema no matter what your preferred genre may be. We believe through the carefully crafted and emotional human interest stories displayed in the film, help propel 'Four Trails' to reach these goals." ```