If every creator has a core, then Stephen Fung Tak Lun’s core might be a kind of fluidity that resists being strictly defined. From being the guitarist in the 1990s band Dry to becoming an actor, director, and now an anime IP creator, his life seems like a series of transitions, but the focus remains the same—telling stories.
In this latest endeavor, he opts to introduce a new universe through a little boy wearing a red bucket.
“BUCKET MAN” is not just a character design; it represents a fable about Hong Kong, growth, and the idea of making one’s first fortune. When the character debuted at ComplexCon, alongside HSBC One+ to create a 13-foot tall giant golden bucket experience zone, the red bucket transformed from a mere household item into a symbol of the city’s spirit. Now, let’s explore Stephen Fung’s multifaceted universe and the adventurous declaration of “BUCKET MAN” with ZTYLEZ!
Z: ZTYLEZ
S: Stephen Fung Tak Lun
Z: Your career has showcased a diverse range of roles, from singer to actor, director, and now anime creator. You started out as a singer; did you always dream of becoming a musician before entering the industry? Is there a connection among these different identities?
S: Yes, I’ve loved playing the guitar since childhood, so my dream has always been to play in a band and make music. Then, through a chance encounter, I met Lau Tak Wah, and we immediately clicked to form Dry, which launched my career as a singer. Subsequently, through advertisements and films, I gradually transitioned into acting and directing. However, the core remains the same: telling stories through different mediums. I majored in graphic design in college, so whether I’m making films as an actor or director or now creating anime, visuals and imagery are always my starting point. There is synergy among these identities, driving my constant exploration of new possibilities.
Z: Your works often span various media and platforms, from film to social media, and from comics to digital art. How do you adjust your creative thinking when navigating different art forms? Which artistic expression do you think best represents you at present?
S: Each form of art has its unique language and characteristics, so I adapt my expression according to the medium. While the underlying creative thought is similar, the methods of presentation differ. As for what represents me the most at this moment, I believe it is anime. Perhaps this is because anime can naturally convey unreal stories and visuals while still retaining a hint of childlike wonder.
Z: What inspired your foray into anime creation?
S: It all started with a piece of digital art featuring a child wearing a red bucket on his head. I have always wanted to create a superhero story, and when I saw that artwork, I suddenly felt, “the feeling has come!” This feeling might stem from the cultural significance of this red bucket for Hong Kong. I thought to myself, if I could develop a superhero story around this element, it would be very interesting—thus began the creation of “BUCKET MAN.” However, creating anime takes time, but I didn’t want to wait until all conditions were perfect to start, so I decided to launch the character’s visual concept first and gradually expand the story. It’s similar to how “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” began, introducing visuals first before developing the story.
Z: Can you explain the thinking behind creating “BUCKET MAN”?
S: The bucket on BUCKET MAN’s head is reminiscent of the red A bucket commonly seen in the daily lives of Hong Kong residents, serving as a cultural symbol rich in local flavour and an object that many encounter regularly—from water production in the 1960s to seeing it in restaurants and markets today. I believe many Hong Kong people can resonate with this cultural reference. While BUCKET MAN does not possess traditional superpowers, I feel he embodies certain qualities of Hong Kong people—resilience, adaptability, and a spirit of adventure.
Z: Anime IP and financial brands might seem like disconnected fields. How did this collaboration with HSBC One+ come about? How did you find a resonance or connection between the two?
S: The primary audience for anime is young people, and the customer base of HSBC One+ also largely consists of the new generation, so I feel that anime and this IP format are suitable for reaching this audience. Interestingly, the “bucket” in “BUCKET MAN” resonates naturally with HSBC One+’s concept of “first fortune,” which made for a perfect match. Moreover, BUCKET MAN is a character who dares to challenge and persists in the face of difficulties, aligning well with the message HSBC One+ aims to convey. Though he is a superhero, he will also encounter obstacles. We hope viewers can relate to him and feel that services like HSBC One+ are available to help them seize opportunities and pursue their dreams more courageously. These metaphors make the story more engaging and relatable. I enjoy telling stories in a light-hearted way, even when the themes are more serious or complex, as I strive to incorporate fresh elements. “Financial literacy” sounds serious, but it’s something we encounter daily, so I aim to present it in an easy-to-understand manner, making it feel more accessible. If we only discuss functions or numbers, many might not connect; however, through the anime “BUCKET MAN,” a visually appealing medium, we can bridge that gap and bring financial literacy closer to everyday life.
Z: Last time, “BUCKET MAN” partnered with HSBC One+ to release exclusive limited-edition cards at the Grade10 Festival 2025, sparking a wave of interest. What surprise will you bring this time at ComplexCon Hong Kong 2026?
S: The last collaboration between “BUCKET MAN” and HSBC One+ to launch exclusive limited-edition cards successfully attracted significant attention and participation, and we are thrilled to continue this unique partnership. Notably, HSBC One+’s target audience also engages with street culture and anime, aligning perfectly with the identity of “BUCKET MAN.” Therefore, our return to ComplexCon Hong Kong 2026 allows us to showcase limited-edition pure gold figures and two exclusive limited-edition cards that received a perfect score of CGC 10 from specialized grading organizations.
At the event, apart from displaying the “HSBC One+ x BUCKET MAN” photo wall made from over 200 cards, integrating street culture, there’s also the iconic red A bucket symbolizing “BUCKET MAN,” allowing everyone to DIY their own exclusive “gold” bucket to exchange for popcorn. This symbolizes how HSBC One+ helps everyone accelerate towards realizing their first fortune, and we hope attendees can appreciate this thoughtful addition.
Z: In facing various developments and innovative technologies (like social media and digital platforms), how do you think contemporary creators have unique advantages and challenges compared to when you first entered the industry?
S: In the past, creators often had to wait for opportunities, but in the social media era, young people can actively create opportunities. As long as they have attitude and stories, they can showcase themselves on different platforms and resonate with others. When I previously produced content like “Old Fung’s Diary,” post-production was less direct, and we needed outlets like television stations to be seen. Now, many TikTokers create similar content and can effortlessly open Instagram to film, edit, and add music, uploading it directly to their accounts. Everyone has a chance to be a creator. However, I think the challenge lies in the lower entry barriers, leading to more intense competition, so one must find unique paths to stand out.
Z: Finally, what message do you hope the audience will take from the collaboration between “BUCKET MAN” and HSBC One+, and what advice do you have for dream chasers?
S: As long as you are willing to take the first step and make good use of the resources around you, your first fortune or dream is not that far out of reach.
“BUCKET MAN” is indeed a superhero, but he also encounters challenges and relies on perseverance and effectively using tools to adapt. I hope the audience sees themselves in “BUCKET MAN,” capable of moving closer to their first fortune with the support of tools and guidance.
