“Legend of the Condor Heroes – The Gallants,” Interview with Tony Leung Ka-fai

In an exclusive interview at the 27th Far East Film Festival, Tony Leung Ka-fai shares valuable insights into his role in “Legend of the Condor Heroes – The Gallant“. Based on Jin Yong’s iconic novel, the film offers a fresh interpretation that honors the source material while incorporating modern nuances.

“Legend of the Condor Heroes – The Gallant” follows the story of martial arts legends Guo Jing and Huang Rong, but what truly captivates Leung Ka-fai is his portrayal of the villain Ouyang Feng. In this adaptation, Tony’s Ouyang Feng is a complex character—malicious yet driven by a thirst for power, aiming to obtain the legendary “Nine Scrolls.” Leung Ka-fai describes this role as an exciting challenge, as it allowed him to explore the darker side of a classic villain and bring depth and nuance to an iconic character.

Leung Ka-fai explains how his childhood immersed in cinema shaped his approach to acting, emphasizing the importance of understanding Jin Yong’s literary universe. He notes that Jin Yong’s novels, which are experienced through reading rather than watching, stimulate the imagination differently from visual storytelling. This inspired his approach to roles like Ouyang Feng—adding authenticity and layered complexity to the character.

He also discusses his collaboration with Tsui Hark, describing it as a union of dreamers that fosters spontaneous creativity and mutual respect. Leung Ka-fai’s passion for wuxia and his dedication to capturing the spirit of classic stories shine in every scene.

Additionally, he shares how his lifelong love for cinema—from childhood visits to the theater to decades as an actor—has given him a profound understanding of storytelling and character development. This blend of personal history and craft makes his portrayal of Ouyang Feng especially compelling.

“Legend of the Condor Heroes – The Gallant” is set to become a landmark wuxia film, seamlessly merging tradition with innovative cinematic techniques. For fans and newcomers alike, Leung Ka-fai’s insights provide a fascinating perspective on a project that reimagines a beloved classic through a contemporary storytelling lens.

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