The emotional resonance behind the cinematic sequel to the classic television series A Step into the Past (尋秦記) took center stage on a recent episode of the ViuTV talk show Chat KP, hosted by Kearen Pang. Lead actors Louis Koo and Raymond Lam joined the program to discuss the film’s success, the power of onscreen emotion, and the profound connection they share with their decades-long fan base.
Capturing Intensity in Two Takes
Lam discussed the film’s most memorable moments, spotlighting a poignant farewell scene shot on a dock that deeply moved audiences. He revealed the scene required remarkably little shooting time.
“That sequence flowed incredibly smoothly,” Lam explained. “The emotion felt genuine and came naturally. It was as if two decades of the character’s inner world had accumulated, creating a powerful emotional surge. Because the role’s foundation was so rich, the whole process felt effortless, and we completed it in just two takes.”
Koo offered a fascinating insight into the film’s cross-generational appeal following public screenings. He noted the unexpected enthusiastic response from very young viewers.
“We observed several children, some as young as four or five, who told us they planned to watch the original television drama after seeing the movie,” Koo shared. “I truly didn’t anticipate this reaction. Modern children often lack the patience for lengthy series, especially a 40-episode show. Yet, they expressed willingness to watch the entire original run.”
The Meaning of “Cherish the Present”
The episode’s theme, “A Man’s Tears,” prompted Pang to ask both veteran actors about their most recent moments of vulnerability in their personal lives.
Koo shared a deeply private moment, relating that he last shed tears on his mother’s birthday. While having dinner and taking a photograph together, he found himself staring at the image for a long time afterward.
“I rarely share pictures of my family publicly; the last time was perhaps over a decade ago,” Koo said. “Looking at that photo, I suddenly grasped the true meaning of ‘cCherish the people around you.’ The world has seen so much upheaval recently, between the pandemic and conflicts. Regardless of global changes, failing to appreciate those closest to you is a major failing.”
He drew a parallel to the film’s central message: “‘We cannot change the past, but we can cherish the present and the future.’ Looking at that picture, the tears suddenly began to fall.”
Lam recounted his last emotional experience, which occurred several months ago while thinking about his family. He also mentioned an impactful promotional trip to Taiwan for the movie. Koo lightheartedly joked, asking if Lam cried due to exhaustion.
Lam responded with a smile, confirming, “No, it was a joyful experience.” He elaborated that it was his first time thanking audiences in Taiwan.
“For years, I’ve had incredible support from fans across the globe for both my acting and music, many of whom attend my concerts,” Lam noted. “But finally visiting their city, seeing their unwavering support—some for over 20 years—reminded me that they are the very engine of my artistic career.”
Lam further distinguished the emotional impact of being a musician versus an actor. While singers directly face their audience on stage, actors typically interact primarily with colleagues during filming. “The limited opportunities we have to genuinely engage with the audience, like during post-screening thank-yous, makes those connections especially heartwarming,” he concluded.
The film’s success underscores the enduring power of classic Hong Kong cinema to bridge generational gaps and reinforce universally relatable themes of loyalty and treasuring human connection amid chaos.
