The high-octane Hong Kong-Japanese cinematic co-production, Killer #4, has garnered significant international attention, culminating in a leading five nominations for the prestigious Golden Horse Awards, making it the most recognized Hong Kong feature film this year. The film, which marks a dramatic leading role debut for popular actor Jeffrey Ngai (Ngai Chun-sang), has captivated critics, also securing screenings at the renowned Fantastic Fest in the U.S., the Pingyao International Film Festival, and a coveted slot as the Closing Film of the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival.
Ngai steps into the title role as Agent #4, a highly efficient assassin whose missions involve intense physical combat. To realistically portray the lethal operative, the young actor dedicated extensive time to specialized, high-intensity action training, preparing for a film that features him opposite a multinational ensemble cast including Japanese stars Sairi Itoh and Naoto Takenaka, along with Hong Kong veterans Philip Keung and Rosa Maria Velasco.
Rigorous Training Sharpens Star’s Edge
The transformation into a ruthless killer required more than just surface acting; it demanded genuine physical mastery. Ngai recounted his rigorous preparations, which focused heavily on close-quarters combat and grappling specialized techniques. Specifically, he trained in intricate submission holds to execute a key action sequence set within a confined tram carriage.
“Locking techniques are crucial,” Ngai explained regarding his training regimen. “The hold must be tight enough to inflict pain on the opponent, allowing the killer to maintain control regardless of the angle of movement. This aligns perfectly with the character: a formidable assassin who can swiftly disable a target while making the process appear effortless.”
While the continuous, exhaustive training left his muscles aching and utterly fatigued, Ngai called the experience “exhilarating.” He noted that the physical exertion helped internalize the role, though he admitted that adopting the necessary emotional coldness required for the hitman was a greater challenge than mastering the choreography.
Mastering the Craft Overseas and On Set
Beyond the initial training in Hong Kong, Ngai traveled to Japan for specialized martial arts instruction led by acclaimed action director Koichi Sakamoto, known for his work spanning from local productions to Hollywood blockbusters. Sakamoto, a Golden Horse nominee himself, oversaw the complex action sequences, including stylized gunfights and traditional Japanese swordsmanship.
Ngai humorously recounted the non-verbal communication required with his Japanese instructors. Furthermore, due to the need for specific sound effects and safety regulations during training, Ngai had to improvise gun sounds during firing drills. “Because we couldn’t use live ammunition but needed the emotional impact, I had to be my own sound effects, mentally willing myself not to form poum, poum shapes with my mouth during the actual shoot,” he joked.
Sakamoto expressed high praise for the newcomer’s dedication and quick learning curve. “Jeffrey possesses incredible energy and professionalism, always approaching the demanding tasks with a smile,” Sakamoto shared. “He absorbed all the action demonstrations very quickly. We shared a wonderful time both in training and during the filming process.”
Despite moments of frustration during initial rehearsal phases—often practicing moves into empty space without the tactile reality of an opponent—Ngai found immense satisfaction when those learned skills translated seamlessly into the intense on-set realities. The resulting critical acclaim, highlighted by the Golden Horse recognition, underscores the successful commitment to portraying cinematic realism.
Killer #4’s deep dive into the underworld narrative, coupled with expertly choreographed action sequences and strong performances, sets a high bar for contemporary Asian genre cinema, promising an exciting run throughout the awards season.