Zhu Yilong Sings Cantonese Classic at 'Empty Gun' Premiere, Drawing Jealousy from Co-Star's Husband
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Mainland Chinese actor Zhu Yilong attended the premiere of his new crime film Empty Gun at The Elements cinema in Hong Kong on September 24, where he performed a Cantonese song and spoke exclusively in Cantonese, impressing audiences and co-stars alike. His co-star Michelle Wai shared how she constantly praised Zhu during filming, causing her husband to jokingly ask if she was "done praising yet." The film's director Han Yan expressed his longstanding admiration for Hong Kong cinema, while the cast members discussed the challenges and rewards of their collaboration.
Key Points
- Zhu Yilong spoke entirely in Cantonese for the film, learning the language in just one month before filming began, practicing until 4am even after late shoots .
- At the premiere, Zhu sang a portion of the classic Cantonese song "Every Minute Needs You" dedicated to Michelle Wai .
- Michelle Wai revealed she praised Zhu daily in front of her husband, who eventually asked "Are you done praising him yet?" .
- The film features an intense kissing scene between Zhu and Michelle, which she pre-warned her husband about, though he mysteriously sensed the filming day .
- Veteran actor Ben Yuen taught Zhu a Cantonese expression using a brand of prop phone as a memory cue, with the phrase translating roughly to "nothing left for you" .
Why It Matters
This premiere marks a significant cross-regional collaboration between Mainland Chinese and Hong Kong filmmakers, with Zhu Yilong's commitment to speaking Cantonese demonstrating respect for local audiences and cinema traditions. The film's Category III rating reflects Hong Kong's strict film classification system, while the cast's camaraderie highlights the growing cultural exchange between entertainment industries across the region.
This premiere marks a significant cross-regional collaboration between Mainland Chinese and Hong Kong filmmakers, with Zhu Yilong's commitment to speaking Cantonese demonstrating respect for local audiences and cinema traditions. The film's Category III rating reflects Hong Kong's strict film classification system, while the cast's camaraderie highlights the growing cultural exchange between entertainment industries across the region.