According to Sohu, in March 2026, Ha Nhuan Dong (50 years old) suddenly "caused a fever" again thanks to the role of Xiang Yu in the movie "Han Chu Legend" broadcast 14 years ago.
Up to now, his Douyin account has increased from 3 million to 5 million followers, while related topics attract more than 1.2 billion views.
This "re-digging" wave spontaneously initiated by the online community is not only a review of a classic role, but also shows a clear change in the aesthetic taste of Chinese cinema.
It is noteworthy that this "comeback" did not come from a new project, but originated from the role of Xiang Yu in the historical drama "The Legend of Han Chu" which aired 14 years ago.
In the context of the movie "Jade Axis" causing controversy because of the image of a "general applying chalk", the online community suddenly "dug up" Ha Nhuan Dong's version as a clear contrast.
When broadcast in 2012, his performance faced many mixed opinions. With a familiar romantic image, the actor was considered not powerful enough to transform into a famous historical figure for strength and heroism.
Many viewers at that time commented that his image still faintly resembles the "male lead of romantic movies", lacking the edginess needed of a general.
However, when placed next to the image in "Pearl Axis" - where the design is criticized for being too "clean", heavily made up and lacking a battlefield feeling - the public's perception has changed significantly.
Ha Nhuan Dong's "roughness" in both appearance and acting is now assessed as a rare authenticity, something that many modern ancient costume works seem to be gradually losing.
To put on a 40kg armor, Ha Nhuan Dong spent 7 months to increase his body weight to 95kg, performing topless scenes in minus 17°C conditions, ensuring realistic muscle lines with the spirit of history books.
He refused to use close-up slow-motion scenes; all horse riding and fighting scenes were performed live, with blood, mud and sand covering costumes. Many scenes had to endure dozens of kilograms of armor under harsh weather, even below 0°C.
Not only focusing on appearance, the actor also carefully studies historical materials to understand the character. From the important events in Xiang Yu's life to the psychological depth, he builds the character with many layers of emotions: both the pride of a leader and the obvious tragedy of a defeated hero.
This approach helps the role become closer and more realistic, going beyond the usual idealized heroic model.
Peter Ho, born in 1975, is a famous Chinese-American singer, actor, model and producer, familiar on the Chinese screen.
He made his mark through masculine, martial general roles in ancient costume films such as Xiang Yu ("Han Chu Legend"), Lu Bu ("New Romance of the Three Kingdoms") and the role of Luong Son Ba in "Luong Son Ba - Chuc Anh Dai". Up to now, the actor is more secretive, focusing on the role of director, film producer and owning a large fortune.
