Veteran Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai says he felt no pressure while filming a nude scene for his latest European project, Silent friend.
During an event in Hong Kong on October 9, the 63-year-old actor discussed the film, which premiered at Venice International Film Festival in September. Some viewers at the premiere were surprised by Leung’s brief nude scene, but the actor said he took it in stride.
“I didn’t hesitate. I already experienced it while filming Lust, Caution, and the level of nudity in Silent Friend is much more moderate,” Leung explained with a calm smile.
Directed and written by Hungarian Ildikó Enyedi and produced by a German film studio, Silent friend is expected to be released first in Germany before being released in cinemas in the US, Japan, China and Singapore. Leung will also participate in a series of promotional events in various countries.
A philosophical drama about humanity and science
The film explores themes of human destiny in the post-pandemic era, the essence of life and the boundaries of intelligence. Leung plays a Hong Kong scientist stranded in Germany who discovers mysterious properties in an ancient ginkgo tree on a university campus and begins a series of experiments on it.
To prepare for the role, Leung spent nearly a year studying neuroscience, consulting experts for scientific information and authenticity. He noted that this intensive preparation helped him understand the intellectual depth and emotional loneliness of his character.
Leung also revealed that he has received offers from directors from different countries and wants to continue working in different international productions, embracing different narrative cultures.
A legendary career across continents
Recognized by CNN as one of the 25 most successful Asian actors, Tony Leung remains a symbol of artistic excellence in world cinema. In 2000, he became the first Hong Kong actor to win the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his performance in In the mood for love.
In 2023 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at Venice Film Festivalcementing his status as a cinematic icon. Over the course of his decades-long career, Leung has won dozens of acting awards across Asia and beyond.
Even in his sixties, Leung continues to impress audiences. His 2021 performance as Wenwu, the Marvel antagonist Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Ringsit won wide acclaim for its emotional complexity and gravity.
Reflections on craftsmanship and heritage
Lust, beware (2007), directed by Ang Lee, remains one of Leung’s most controversial and discussed films, known for his explicit scenes with co-star Tang Wei. Lee once remarked regarding Leung’s magnetism:
“There’s electricity in his eyes: not just acting ability, but a soul that shines through. Becoming a great actor requires discipline; becoming a star requires the power to inspire others. Tony has achieved both.”
According to Mtime, the filming of Lust, beware it was emotionally intense: even Ang Lee admitted to feeling nervous during the intimate scenes, while Tang Wei reportedly cried due to the stress of filming.
Now, with Silent friendTony Leung once again demonstrates his artistic courage and commitment to challenging, boundary-pushing roles that continue to define his legacy in global cinema.
Source: vne
