Casey Chan Lai-ying was born in Hong Kong in 1954. She studied art at Sir Robert Black College of Education, first working in advertising design upon graduation and later at a TV magazine. A fondness for Yamada Yoji prompted her to study directing at College of Art, Nihon University, graduating with a film that won an award. Returning to Hong Kong, Chan worked in production in capacities as varied as production assistant, assistant editor, assistant director, producer and director.