Taiwanese director Qu Chuan-li makes history with third documentary surpassing NT$10 million

Documentary director Qu Chuan-li has set a new record in Taiwan's film industry, becoming the first director to have three of his documentaries each gross over NT$10 million. His latest film, "The Supermen," achieved this significant box office success, joining "The Power of Beauty 3D" and "Taiwan Supermen" in surpassing the NT$10 million mark.

Qu expressed a mix of disbelief and humility about the unprecedented achievement, joking that while one film breaking the barrier might be luck and two a miracle, three is beyond his comprehension. He drew a parallel to the popular Korean drama "The Iron-Blooded Education," noting its sharp critique of societal issues like school bullying, drugs, and educational policy. However, Qu stated that while "The Iron-Blooded Education" addresses educational challenges, "The Supermen" aims to convey hope through education.

"True teachers don't want to solve problems with corporal punishment; education needs not an iron fist, but a light of hope," Qu remarked. He believes that "The Iron-Blooded Education" offers an emotional outlet, whereas "The Supermen" responds to reality with companionship. The key difference, he noted, is the absence of companionship in the Korean drama, contrasted with its presence in his film.

Having dedicated over eight years since 2017 to the "Taiwan Supermen" series, Qu has traveled across Taiwan, documenting nearly a hundred individuals he calls "life fighters." He shared touching stories, including a visually impaired person's first solo high-speed rail ticket purchase, a survivor of a gas explosion, individuals with disabilities who care for others, and interviewees who donate a significant portion of their income to charity. These encounters have deeply impacted him.

Approaching 60 and having faced personal health battles, Qu is increasingly certain that "the ultimate value in life is helping others." He believes that as long as the purpose is to help, there are no limits. When asked about the "superpower" of the Taiwan Supermen, he immediately answered, "Empathy." Qu emphasizes that his series is built not on pity, but on understanding and companionship, aiming to show how individuals overcome adversity. He believes true superheroes are not those who never fall, but those who rise after falling and extend a hand to others, a cycle of goodwill that "The Supermen" seeks to inspire.