Hong Kong – Acclaimed actor Aaron Kwok revealed today the physical toll of filming his latest movie, The Insider (tentative translation), which has dominated the Chinese-language box office, securing the top spot for seven consecutive days. Speaking at a celebratory screening event on Wednesday, Kwok disclosed that challenging wire work during a seven-day action sequence resulted in a fractured rib, emphasizing his commitment to cinematic excellence.
Kwok joined co-stars Alex Fong, Kathy Chow, Tong Yi, and Chan Kwok-pong at the fan appreciation event, celebrating the film’s robust performance, which has amassed nearly HK$3 million since its release. Both Kwok and Fong expressed gratitude for the audience support and pledged to participate in further promotional screenings if their demanding schedules permitted.
Kwok Endures Injuries for High-Stakes Action
Detailing the rigorous production, Kwok explained that both he and the director demanded perfection in the action sequences, necessitating numerous retakes. He noted that many stunts involved movements he had never performed before, heavily relying on wire rigging.
“Because the director and I both sought the best possible result, we reshot the wire sequences over ten times,” Kwok explained. “During one take, the padding on my right waist shifted, and the wire apparatus struck and injured my ribs. I had to take painkillers.”
The veteran actor stressed his preference for performing his own stunts, prioritizing the film’s artistic integrity despite the risk. “As long as I can endure it, I will personally shoot the scene. The big picture is what matters, even if it means taking an extra painkiller,” he stated. Kwok added that he intentionally did not disclose the full extent of the injury to his wife, Moka Fang, to prevent her from worrying.
Actors Reflect on Artistic Commitment and Awards Buzz
When asked about his immediate plans, Kwok humorously dismissed suggestions of disguising himself when attending a public screening of The Insider with his wife the following day. “I won’t wear a mask; I’ll wear a face shield,” he quipped, before affirming that going to the cinema is a normal part of life. He suggested that going to great lengths to avoid recognition would distract from the film itself, drawing attention to his celebrity rather than the cinematic experience.
Kwok also shared a heartwarming anecdote about his family’s upcoming holiday plans, noting he will reserve one day for a Christmas break. With the recent birth of his youngest daughter, Kwok affectionately described his household as a “house of goddesses” and pledged to continue his role as “Santa Claus.”
Alex Fong, who plays the antagonist, also discussed the film’s success. He noted that his wife, Mok Ho-yan, has not yet had a chance to see the film due to her busy career commitments, including an imminent business trip to Beijing. Fong expressed little concern about taking his daughter to see the film, despite his villainous role, believing the narrative complexity might be above her full comprehension.
Fong also addressed the high praise from director Felix Chong, who publicly tipped him for a Best Supporting Actor nomination at the Hong Kong Film Awards. While acknowledging that every actor strives to excel, Fong focused on audience enjoyment. Kwok lauded his co-star’s performance, remarking that Fong seemed indifferent to awards, prompting a lighthearted correction. “I certainly want something!” Fong joked. “I’ve been working for decades; I hope to have the opportunity.” The exchange highlighted the professional camaraderie and shared ambition underlying the film’s critical and commercial success.
