The underworld takes center stage tonight as ViuTV premieres the supernatural drama Hell Lawyer, starring MIRROR member Lokman as Yama, the King of Hell, alongside veteran actor Du Yange as a wealthy spirit seeking justice from the afterlife. The series blends moral lessons with entertainment, exploring the consequences of one’s actions through its depiction of the beyond.
Praises and Pressures
Du Yange, a seasoned actor with experience at Shaw Brothers and TVB, praised Lokman’s composed performance and commanding screen presence, noting that his intense gaze was intimidating even without dialogue. Lokman humbly attributed this to sheer effort, confessing that early struggles to understand his character caused significant stress. The physical toll was immense as well; his heavy British military costume, laden with metal accessories, forced him to sweat profusely under hot studio lights, yet he refrained from removing it between takes to keep production on schedule. He credited this endurance to discipline cultivated through his training with MIRROR.
Underworld Production Hardships
The set for the underworld scenes was notoriously demanding, wrapped in black fabric and filled with artificial smoke to create an eerie atmosphere. With air conditioning and fans banned to preserve the illusion, the space felt like a sauna. Despite the discomfort, Du Yange found the experience rewarding, using the series as a cautionary platform to encourage viewers to live virtuously. He joked that good deeds could provide bargaining power with Yama in the afterlife, rather than facing long waits.
Collaboration and Mentorship
Lokman praised Du Yange’s down-to-earth attitude, which fostered a cooperative environment on set. Du Yange offered subtle performance tips, such as suggesting when to amplify reactions, and built camaraderie by treating the cast to meals and coffee candies during breaks. Although Lokman has not yet sought advice on career decisions for MIRROR, Du Yange expressed a willingness to learn from younger talents, recognizing that his long career does not mean he has nothing new to discover.
A New Career Path
In 2024, Du Yange opted not to renew his contract with TVB, ending decades of exclusive commitments dating back to 1975. He now enjoys the freedom to select roles that interest him, prioritizing quality over quantity, while dedicating more time to family and travel. He remains active in voice acting, including dubbing a Mandarin version of Judge of the Law for actor Zhang Jia Hui and appearing in film projects. Based in Zhongshan, China, he appreciates the convenience of cross-border travel and benefits such as free transportation for seniors.
Broader Implications
Hell Lawyer offers audiences a unique lens on justice and morality, using its supernatural premise to prompt reflection on everyday choices. Du Yange’s career shift also highlights a growing preference among veteran artists for flexibility and personal autonomy. For Lokman, the role showcases his development beyond the music scene, signaling continued potential as a versatile actor. The series promises to engage viewers with its thought-provoking themes and compelling performances.
