Martial arts movie tops charts overseas

Actress Chen Lijun, who plays the daughter of a desert clan, said she felt fortunate to make her film debut with such a professional and dedicated crew. Trained as a Yueju Opera performer, Chen said that although many martial arts stars and stunt performers in early Hong Kong cinema came from traditional opera troupes, acting for the camera is very different from performing on stage.

"To be honest, I'm still a newcomer to filmmaking, so everyone on set has been a teacher to me," she said.

"The action coordinators taught me how to sell a punch, and my fellow actors showed me how to better face the camera. From the very beginning of training — from Wu to the equestrian coaches and martial arts instructors — everyone has been incredibly generous in sharing their knowledge. On this set, where we're bringing a martial arts dream to life, I truly feel that everyone carries a spirit of chivalry," added Chen.