Andy Lau - Interview

1. I’ve been watching your films for over 20 years and you have hardly aged. How do you keep looking so darned young?

A: The secret is: I don’t know. And I am always very grateful.

2. You’ve had a very prolific and diverse career. Is there a particular genre you prefer to work in?

A：I hope I’m prolific but not indiscriminating. Actually, I have no particular preference. I like all movies that I can feel moved, either as a viewer or an actor.

3. Is this the first time you’ve worked with Tsui Hark?

A: As far as I can recollect, this was the first time I worked with Tsui Hark. Tsui is a real master in direction. But he is also a notorious workaholic too. Working with him could be a nightmare, ready to get exhausted till your last breath. I heard this before and yes, he did it this time too, hahaha…but it’s understandable: that’s how he gets things as close to perfection as possible.

4. How difficult is it to learn the fighting moves in films such as this and Shaolin?

A: Practice is always the key. And in “Detective Dee”, Sammo, whom I myself have named one of the best action directors, has done his best job not only to train us but also treat the action scenes with the best camera work, to deliver the action scenes to the best possible outcome.

5. What was the most challenging aspect for you in making this film?

A: Very physically demanding. Shooting took place at Hengdian in China during one of the hottest summers. The shooting crew had to withstand a scorching temperature regularly over 40 degrees Celsius in long working hours almost daily for months. And I myself had to fight a lot…exhausting! But it’s worth when you see the outcome finally. “Detective Dee” is not only a thrilling story but also visually exciting with a mad collection of unforgettable images and great action scenes.

6. Is there any person you would like to portray onscreen, fictional or otherwise?

A: Too many. Maybe the character I want most to portray is the one which I even cannot imagine at this moment. You will never know. That’s the movie business!

7. There is a certain amount of “green-screen” and CGI utilised in the film. How difficult do you find it to react to objects and events which will be added at a later date, For example, the scene where you are attacked by the stags?

A: Imagination. That’s what artistes should always possess, I guess. It’s part of acting. It’s the director and post production people who do most of the job to make the outcome perfect.

Detective Dee is available in the UK from June 27th on Cine Asia. You can find our review here.

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