Action Legend Yuen Woo-ping Prefers Real Stunts, Skeptical of AI in Filmmaking

Yuen Woo-ping, the legendary Hong Kong action choreographer and director behind classics like 'Drunken Master' and Hollywood hits such as 'The Matrix,' 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,' and 'Kill Bill,' is in South Korea for the 30th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival. His latest directorial effort, 'The Tiger Hunter,' serves as the festival's opening film, marking his return to the director's chair at the age of 81.

“

Filming in the desert with average temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius was unimaginably difficult, but it has resulted in a groundbreaking martial arts film.

Speaking at a press conference in Bucheon, Yuen described 'The Tiger Hunter' as his most arduous project to date, citing the challenges of filming in desert conditions with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Despite the difficulties, he expressed confidence in the film's innovative martial arts sequences. The film boasts a cast of veteran Hong Kong stars, including Jet Li, Nicholas Tse, and Tony Leung Ka-fai, and has already garnered praise for its grand and realistic action choreography.

“

I believe that using computer graphics results in a lower quality outcome compared to what real actors can achieve, so action without CGI is my style.

Yuen reiterated his dedication to practical filmmaking, stating that he rarely uses computer-generated imagery (CGI) unless absolutely necessary, such as for depicting supernatural abilities. "I believe that using computer graphics results in a lower quality outcome compared to what real actors can achieve," he explained, emphasizing that action sequences performed by actors are his preferred style. He also expressed skepticism about the current capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking, stating, "Although AI has developed significantly, in my eyes, it is still inferior to what humans can do." He firmly stated that he has no intention of using AI at this time.

“

Although AI has developed significantly, in my eyes, it is still inferior to what humans can do. I have no intention of using AI yet.

Reflecting on the evolution of action cinema, Yuen believes that the best action films are timeless and do not become tiresome with repeated viewings. He observed a shift in audience preference from visually spectacular, stylized movements to more realistic action that seamlessly integrates with acting. Yuen also shared insights into his collaborations with iconic martial arts stars, tailoring action designs to their individual strengths, from Jackie Chan's blend of humor and complex stunts to Jet Li's mastery of traditional Chinese martial arts. He expressed satisfaction with his collaboration with the lead actor in 'The Tiger Hunter,' Wu Jing, and fondly recalled a past opportunity to work with a talented young Korean actor, though he could not remember the name at the time, later identified as Lee Byung-hun. Yuen concluded by affirming that age is not a barrier to directing, as filmmaking is both his sole hobby and career, and he intends to continue as long as he is able.

“

A good action movie is one whose action you can watch for a long time without getting tired of it.