Hong Kong actor Jeffrey Ng (Wei Jun-sheng) is establishing himself as a formidable presence in action cinema, taking on his first leading male role in the forthcoming film, Killer #4. The young star detailed the rigorous preparation and international collaboration required for the project, expressing confidence in the film’s bold vision while maintaining a humble perspective on potential box office outcomes.
Ng, who recently spoke about the production, shared insights into the grueling eight-month intensive training program he underwent, encompassing martial arts, firearms handling, and swordplay. The regimen resulted in a significant 17-pound weight reduction, optimizing his physical condition for the demanding action sequences. Despite the intensity, the actor emphasized that the comprehensive preparation allowed him to perform the complex choreography with greater fluency and conviction.
Embracing Challenges and International Collaboration
The film, directed by the emerging filmmaker Derek Leung, showcases Ng alongside a notable Japanese cast, including veteran actor Naoto Takenaka, actress Sara Minami, and child star Yurito Mori. Ng lauded Leung’s approach, commending the director for his inventive and boundary-pushing debut. He noted the seamless professional rapport with co-star Minami, stressing that language barriers dissipated in service of the artistic collaborative process. Furthermore, Ng singled out Takenaka’s performance, particularly the veteran’s unique vocal delivery used to heighten dramatic impact during lengthy monologues.
Addressing the moniker of “new-generation action star,” Ng remained grounded, stating he does not presume to claim the title. Instead, he views himself simply as an actor committed to seizing every opportunity, especially given the current challenging economic climate for film production. “Any audition is a training opportunity,” he asserted, highlighting his willingness to invest effort and perseverance into his craft.
Professionalism Over Personality
Ng, known for his striking looks, quickly dispelled any notions of maintaining an “idol image.” He expressed absolute willingness to immerse himself fully in the role of an assassin, including the incorporation of explicit dialogue if the script requires it. He drew a clear distinction between professional requirements and public conduct, noting that while casual vulgarity might be appropriate in a creative context or personal conversation, it is unsuitable for professional interviews.
The actor’s commitment to his roles extends even to controversial professional choices. When asked about potential nudity, Ng confirmed his openness to performing scenes that involve full exposure, including buttock nudity, provided they are essential and justified by the narrative. He stressed that a professional actor must accept a wide spectrum of performance demands.
He also clarified his relationship dynamics regarding intimate scenes, noting that his manager-girlfriend fully supports his professional endeavors. Contrary to hypothetical assumptions about resistance to romantic scenes, Ng stated their relationship is grounded in mutual professional respect, with his partner encouraging him to study relevant cinematic performances for reference rather than seeking approval.
Finally, Ng briefly addressed comments regarding an alleged affluent lifestyle surfaced by a celebrity friend, Tyson Yoshi. Laughing off the speculation, Ng suggested the friend was confused and joked that Yoshi was the one with substantial wealth, playfully soliciting his friend to become a potential investor in future film projects. In a more serious vein, Ng, a five-year veteran of the industry, reaffirmed his prudent financial habits, ensuring long-term stability and expressing deep appreciation for his partner’s unwavering support and professional dedication.
Further details on this interview are anticipated in the entertainment section of tomorrow’s Ming Pao newspaper.
