The historical drama "Jade Axis" is becoming the focus of discussion as the more it airs, the more opposing opinions it faces. From a work expected to "explode", the film gradually reveals its limitations, especially the way of building character images and unreasonable aesthetic choices.
The biggest controversy revolves around the male lead played by Truong Lang Hach. Despite possessing a bright appearance and easy to create sympathy, his "general" image is considered unconvincing. Audiences believe that the character is too meticulous, from smooth white skin to meticulous makeup, completely unsuitable for the harsh battlefield context.
In a war-themed film, authenticity is the core element. However, instead of recreating the dust and harshness of soldiers, the film prioritizes close-up angles, lighting and shaping to enhance the appearance of the actors. This makes the characters become far from reality, like stepping out of an idol movie rather than a real warrior.
Not only stopping at the styling, the behind-the-scenes details show that the male lead's riding scene uses fake props, even requiring someone behind to push to create movement. This image disappointed many viewers, because it completely breaks the feeling of role-playing, and also reflects the lack of investment in important details.
In fact, filming action scenes on horses requires high technique and close coordination between actors and crews. However, instead of striving to improve quality, many film crews choose safe and economical solutions, leading to the final product lacking weight.
Many young actors possess outstanding appearances but lack the necessary experience and training to transform into roles that require depth. As a result, the character becomes "beautiful but empty", failing to create a long-lasting impression.
Not only "Axis of Jade", many other films such as "Truong Nguyet Tan Minh" with the male lead La Van Hi have also been complained about for excessive styling, losing the logic of the character. When makeup, costumes and camera angles become top priorities, the story and depth of the character are easily underestimated.
From this reality, it can be seen that the problem does not lie in an individual or a film, but reflects a way of making films that follow short-term tastes. Abusing "visual" (beautiful images) to attract audiences may bring initial effects, but it is difficult to create sustainable value.
A successful historical film is not a place to show off appearance, but a space to recreate people and times. When characters are built with depth and authenticity, audiences will believe and empathize. Conversely, if it is just "painted skin without bones", the work is difficult to avoid being quickly forgotten, even though it has a famous cast.
