As a seasoned movie critic with decades of film-watching under my belt, I can confidently say that few actors embody the essence of cinematic excellence quite like James Hong. The man is a true legend, and his iconic role as David Lo Pan in Big Trouble in Little China is a testament to that fact.
James Hong, renowned actor best known for his performance in Everything Everywhere All At Once, gained newfound fame by portraying the villainous David Lo Pan in Big Trouble in Little China. This action-packed movie, released in 1986 and starring Kurt Russell, Kim Cattrall, and Dennis Dun, has evolved into a cult classic over time. The role of David Lo Pan, despite his sinister nature, became one of Hong’s most memorable and iconic performances.
In a current interview with MovieWeb to promote the second season of “Gremlins: The Wild Batch”, where Hong portrays Grandpa, he shared his uncertainty about being chosen for the role, expressing that he didn’t know if he would be part of the popular sequel series.
Without a doubt, portraying David Lo Pan in “Big Trouble in Little China” was one of the best moments in my life. I recall trying out for that role. I delivered my lines as Lo Pan, and during the audition, I remember saying, “I can demonstrate a bit of Kung Fu.” But the director, John Carpenter, responded, “No, no, no, you don’t need to.” So, I left his office, thinking maybe I wouldn’t get the part.
Putting a Unique Spin on Lo Pan
However, that wasn’t how events unfolded in the end. Hong then remarked: “It seems he was so captivated by my reading that I was exploited. Yet, the role provided me with an opportunity to express various emotions as Lo Pan, and it sparked a longing within me to find a partner and settle down – something every character experiences in pursuit of love.
Indeed. In the film, which tracks a gruff trucker (Kurt Russell) and his sidekick (Dennis Dun) going head-to-head against Hong’s ancient sorcerer beneath Chinatown, we eventually learn Lo Pan’s backstory. He was a vibrant warrior and an exceptional wizard, but he was overtaken by an emperor who then placed the curse of “no flesh” on him. The only way to escape the curse is to marry a green-eyed Chinese woman. That would be Miao Yin (Suzee Pai).
As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but marvel at the unforgettable experience that is “Big Trouble in Little China.” This movie, with its hilarious jokes, stellar cast, and pulse-pounding action scenes, has rightfully earned its place as another triumph for the one and only John Carpenter. A director whose horror masterpieces like “Halloween,” “The Thing,” “The Fog,” and “Christine” were already setting the world on fire, “Big Trouble in Little China” served as yet another testament to his genius.
Taking Stock of James Hong’s Roles
Boasting over 700 acting credits spanning from classics like “Chinatown” and the TV series “Kung Fu,” as well as numerous guest roles on television, lending his voice to Mr. Ping in both the “Kung Fu Panda” films and animated series, James Hong remains awe-inspiring. At 100 years old, he declared, “I will still find something to do.
Keep an eye out for major surprises for every character as Season 2 of “Gremlins: The Wild Batch” unfolds. Meanwhile, Hong is penning a memoir chronicling his remarkable career, highlighting the profound impact working with Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway on “Chinatown” had on him. Catch “Gremlins: The Wild Batch” on Max starting Oct. 3. Check out the trailer below.
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2024-10-02 21:31