iQIYI looks to replicate success of 'Light on Theater' in the action genre

Renowned kung fu actor Wu Yue, who produced and acted in Blocking the Horse, also advocated the need to nurture young acting talent to revive the glory of Chinese action films. 

In creating the film — a mixture of martial arts, Peking Opera and comedy — Wu gathered a team of action directors and actors, all in their 20s, and he was impressed by the performances of young actors in the film who accepted training as dancers or martial arts performers of Peking Opera. 

Aside from building a new force in filmmaking, industry insiders at the event also emphasized the importance of developing compelling, innovative content that engages contemporary audiences.

Song said her company has been working with outstanding Internet Wuxia writers to develop screenplays, some of which will be made into films soon. 

Wei shared the three principles his team adheres to when making the 2022 sensation Eye for an Eye and its following installments. "First, we only use real action actors to showcase extraordinary kung fu without relying on slow motion. Second, we create non-traditional heroes, sometimes flawed characters. Third, we make films that aim to resonate with today's audience," he said. 

Eye for an Eye 2 will premiere on the Cloud Cinema on Feb 10, the first day of the Year of Dragon, and iQIYI will announce the premiere dates of Hunt the Wicked and The Wild Blade of Strangers soon.