The images behind the lens show that the project is invested "all-in", but also raise the opinion: the possibility of a sequel is almost not high.
According to shares in the film industry, the project once rumored to be named "Tiêu nhân: Chiến khởi Giang Đô" is actually not part 2 of the current film version, but an independent web film developed by Yuen Woo-ping (Viên Hòa Bình). The content is said to be a spin-off story, not directly following the story of the theatrical part.
Documentary films are divided into three parts: the preparation stage, the filming process in harsh conditions, and the climactic scene of the "petroleum war". In the actor selection stage, the top criterion is "real fighting". Wu Jing requires actors to undergo strict martial arts and horse riding training, similar to the way he used in previous projects.
Many actors such as Tran Le Quan, Ta Dinh Phong or Ly Lien Kiet directly perform dangerous action scenes. Supporting actors also have to practice daily to maintain their "gangster" demeanor. Behind the scenes, horse riding training alone is divided into 5 speed levels, all actors must be proficient.
The filming location is in the desert with the harsh Yadan terrain. The ground temperature sometimes reaches 60 degrees Celsius, the humidity is only about 10%. Level 6 sand winds appear frequently, sometimes forming tornadoes. Many riding and falling scenes have to be filmed back and forth in unfavorable weather conditions. At the age of 68, Luong Gia Huy still directly walks barefoot on the hot sand to achieve a realistic effect.
The most notable is the "oil fire war" scene. Initially, the script was expected to use a subsidence setting, but actual conditions did not allow it, so the crew switched to using real fire. More than 800 people participated, filming continuously for 7 nights. According to action instructions, fire is mixed between gasoline and oil to create smoke and realistic flames. Many scenes where actors have to fall into a mixture of powder and fake "oil fire" ink, causing discomfort.
Experts believe that the investment level and production intensity of "Xiao Ren" have reached the maximum threshold. With high costs and box office film revenue rarely breaking out, it is very difficult for producers to risk making part 2. Wu Jing himself also has many other projects in his plans.
The documentary film of the "Tieu Nhan" project shows the audience that this is a work made with all enthusiasm and resources for a single time. In the context of an increasingly competitive market, "Tieu Nhan" can become an example of how to make martial arts films with full effort, although the future of the brand is still uncertain.
