Hong Kong cinema heavyweights Aaron Kwok, Francis Ng, and Alex Fong attended the glittering premiere of their highly anticipated film, The Insider, in Causeway Bay on Tuesday, marking the culmination of years of production. The event celebrated the dramatic reunion of Kwok and Ng, who last collaborated over two decades ago, alongside director Alan Mak, known for his work on the Infernal Affairs series. The stars shared anecdotes about the demanding action sequences, their evolving professional chemistry, and the film’s unique blend of action and dramatic tension.
The red carpet buzzed with excitement as the lead actors discussed their roles and the unexpected genre shift for the anticipated project. Kwok, portraying an unconventional lawyer, and Ng, cast as a police officer, find their characters entangled in complex legal and criminal circles. Ng quipped about the physical demands of the action thriller, stating his pleasant surprise at Kwok’s relentless combat intensity. “I don’t understand how we ended up making an action film, but Aaron was incredibly dedicated,” Ng remarked. “I had to keep up, even if it meant a bit more discomfort.”
Kwok highlighted the dynamic direction of Alan Mak, with whom both lead actors are collaborating for the second time. He praised Mak’s intriguing artistic choices, noting his initial expectation to play the police role. “Mak’s arrangement was quite interesting,” Kwok explained. “I thought I was the cop, but Francis is, and my character is far from a typical barrister.” Ng humorously suggested that the role assignments might be based on “natural demeanor,” a point Kwok politely refuted.
Ng also offered a witty commentary on his professional growth, contrasting his current compliance with Mak’s direction against his younger years. He confessed to frequently challenging the director during previous collaborations like Love and Loyalty and Infernal Affairs II. “I often used to frustrate him,” Ng chuckled. “Now, I trust him completely. Perhaps I’m just getting older and need him to shake me out of my mental fog on set.” Ng adopted a distinctive, electrically styled hairstyle for the role, joking that he channeled a bit of veteran actor Danny Lee.
The atmosphere turned poignant as Kwok addressed his recent charitable actions. The star and his manager, Siu Mei, provided financial assistance to fellow industry professional Jacky Hoi, who was fundraising for his ailing wife’s operation. Kwok maintained a characteristic humility regarding the public acknowledgment. “Please, there’s no need to exaggerate,” he said. “I grew up in this industry. When I see a genuine situation and my self-funded charity foundation has the capacity, I act immediately. Helping people is simply the right thing to do.”
Meanwhile, co-star Alex Fong, appearing in stylish sneakers paired with his suit, lightened the mood by discussing his cautious approach to physical activity. Fong, who recently qualified for a senior-citizen travel pass, stressed the importance of safety to prevent bone injuries, contrasting his caution with the impressive agility of co-star Simon Yam, who recently recovered from a slight stumble at a public event with remarkable grace. “I don’t have the confidence to be as nimble as Simon,” Fong confessed. “If I’m doing an action scene now, I need to take calcium supplements beforehand. My bones are brittle, not crispy.”
Actress Niki Chow, who plays a lawyer alongside Kwok, expressed her anticipation for the film’s release, confirming that her performance relies primarily on dramatic dialogue rather than stunts. Asked if motherhood influenced her preference for non-action roles, Chow clarified, “It’s not about avoiding action. Lawyers, generally, don’t engage in hand-to-hand combat.” The ensemble cast’s chemistry and the film’s high-stakes narrative promise to deliver a compelling theatrical experience for audiences when The Insider hits cinemas.