The screening and salon is the Magnolia Showcase event of the 29th Shanghai TV Festival.
An excerpt from the martial arts drama “Legend of Heroes” was shown to the public at Shanghai Book City on Tuesday (June 25) as part of the Magnolia Showcase event at the 29th Shanghai Television Festival.
The series is based on the epic saga of the deceased Chinese martial arts author Louis Cha, popularly known by his pen name Jin Yong.
In an innovative structure of five distinct chapters, the series unfolds a legendary world of kung fu prowess, honor, brotherhood and intrigue, reimagining and expanding on the plot of the original novel.
After the screening, Zang Xichuan, director of one of the chapters, interacted with the audience.
Director Zang Xichuan talks about the behind-the-scenes stories of the production.
Chang said adapting Cha's masterpiece into a new film was a challenge for everyone, as they had long discussions about how to stay faithful to the original while catering to the aesthetic tastes of modern audiences with new cinematography.
For example, the female character Mei Chaofeng, who is often portrayed as evil and spiteful in the films, is given a new interpretation in this version.
The story of her childhood, growing up and tragic love are told and different sides to this character are presented.
“I think every male director dreams of making a martial arts film or series,” said Zhang. “Cha's various adaptations of literary works have inspired people for generations. It's not easy for us to make a groundbreaking work, but we try to tell the story from a new and innovative perspective.”
The Magnolia Showcase event held at Shanghai Book City will attract many of the city's residents.
Props used in the film are also on display.
