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Giddens Ko's 'Kung Fu' Masterpiece: A 15-Year Journey
26 Apr
Summary
- Giddens Ko adapted 'Kung Fu' from his 25-year-old novel.
- Stephen Chow provided input on choreography and story.
- The film incorporates classic wuxia clips as narrative clues.
Taiwanese filmmaker Giddens Ko discussed the extensive 15-year development of his wuxia film "Kung Fu." The project, adapted from a novel written 25 years ago, was initially attempted around 2013 but was postponed due to overconfidence following his debut success.
Ko finally brought "Kung Fu" to life by revisiting it with collaborators who shared a history with the material. He described the film, which is Taiwan's highest-budgeted production, as incorporating classic wuxia footage that serves as narrative clues.
He collaborated with Stephen Chow on choreography and story elements for the film. Ko views wuxia not merely as action but as a tool to expand audience imagination, drawing parallels to "The Matrix."
Kai Ko, who stars in "Kung Fu" and directs his own film, discussed their long working relationship and his evolving role in Giddens Ko's post-production. Kai Ko also shared the challenges of learning Cantonese for his role in "I Blew Out the Candles Before Making a Wish."
