Liam Neeson holds a Chinese scroll with characters that read "God of Rescue", which hails his heroic role in the upcoming film, The Commuter, at a promotional event in Beijing. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Speaking about his longtime friendship with Collet-Serra, Neeson says: "We are like dancing partners. Each time, the chemistry gets stronger. He makes my job easier."

But to most fans who are familiar with Neeson, he has the talent to skillfully interpret diverse roles.

He actually shot to fame through Steven Spielberg's Oscar-winning film, Schindler's List (1993), and gained more stardom from the historical biopic, Michael Collins (1996).

Neeson has also starred in Hollywood blockbusters like Star Wars: Episode I－The Phantom Menace (1999) and Batman Begins (2005).

The star, who will turn 66 years old in June, says, "To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of all these superhero movies. I admire the expertise."

But for art-house films, the real problem is to get the money to make them, he adds.

Neeson says he is a supporter of film festivals. He says they demonstrate the diversity of cinematic art and attract audiences to theaters.

When his assistant reminds him to leave at the end of the interview, he still lingers and asks about the opening dates of the two forthcoming international festivals in Beijing and Shanghai.

Contact the writer at xufan@chinadaily.com.cn