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Taiwanese actresses tackle same-sex romance in new film

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Taiwanese actresses Hsi Wei-lun and Chen Yi-ning explore same-sex romance in a new short film, their first foray into LGBTQ+ roles.
  • Both actresses found challenges in portraying the nuanced emotional dynamics and subtle communication between women.
  • The film, shot in Tainan, aims to capture a specific emotional atmosphere, with both actresses expressing interest in future action roles.

Taiwanese actresses Hsi Wei-lun and Chen Yi-ning have stepped into the realm of same-sex romance for a new short film, marking their first exploration of LGBTQ+ relationships on screen. The project, conceived by their agency, presented unique acting challenges for both performers.

The emotional flow between women is more delicate, with many details; eye contact is crucial.

— Hsi Wei-lunThe actress describes the challenges of portraying same-sex intimacy.

Hsi Wei-lun identified the primary difficulty as the subtle and intricate emotional flow between women. "The emotional flow between women is more delicate, with many details; eye contact is crucial," she explained. Chen Yi-ning focused on capturing the overall atmosphere, noting that much of the emotion resides not in dialogue but in "the eyes, pauses, breathing, and even the flow of space." She emphasized the need to remain fully immersed in the character's state and believe in every moment.

Despite the initial nervousness, the actresses found the atmosphere on set eased by their existing familiarity. Chen Yi-ning humorously noted Hsi Wei-lun's typically reserved personality contrasted sharply with her on-screen portrayal, making the process quite amusing. They even exchanged recommendations from their favorite Tainan food spots during breaks, lightening the mood.

the eyes, pauses, breathing, and even the flow of space

— Chen Yi-ningThe actress explains where emotions are conveyed in her performance.

The film was deliberately shot in Tainan, chosen for its unique storytelling potential, characteristic streetscapes, lighting, and relaxed pace, which perfectly complemented the desired emotional tone. Coincidentally, director Yang Pai-ching is a Tainan native, leveraging her local knowledge to discover picturesque settings.

I want to challenge action scenes or cold-blooded killers.

— Hsi Wei-lunThe actress expresses her desire for more dynamic and challenging roles in the future.

Looking ahead, both actresses are eager to diversify their portfolios. Hsi Wei-lun expressed a desire to tackle action roles or play cold-blooded assassins, even comedy, to showcase a more dynamic side beyond her usual quiet characters. Chen Yi-ning, who recently starred in Taiwan's highest-grossing film "Sunshine Angels," also gravitates towards action films, seeking roles that require physical training and stunts, believing they offer a distinct and challenging storytelling experience through movement.

I want to act in martial arts, physical training, or stunt-required works.

— Chen Yi-ningThe actress shares her interest in action-oriented roles for a unique performance experience.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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