In his latest movie, “Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame,” Tsui tells the story of 7th century Detective Dee, who he called “a very important character in Chinese history” when he spoke with The Epoch Times via phone on Friday, Aug. 26, from Hong Kong.
The film is set during the time of Empress Wu Zetian, the only empress in the history of China. Detective Dee was the empress’s adversary as he ridiculed her ascension to the throne and was jailed and tortured. Later, he was called upon to solve the mystery of officials bursting into flames days before the empress’s ascension. In the movie, the ruthless Empress Wu would repeat the slogan, “In pursuit of power, everyone is expendable.”
To reflect the prosperous Tang Dynasty (618–907) and recreate the scenery, Tsui used references to superstitions, martial arts battles, pagodas, and ancient armor.
One of the most important and notable aspects of historical Chinese films is the unique armor and weaponry chosen by the characters. According to Tsui, each character’s weapon reflected on that person’s wisdom and might, and had to match the owner “stylistically.”
For Detective Dee, Tsui created a special mace, which has the power to find the weakest gap in the opponent’s weapon. Shangguan Jing’er uses thick whips, and the Royal Sorcerer a superlong sword. Tsui even included mechanical puppets that look like futuristic flying robots.
Tsui described Wu as “a very modern person” despite living in the 7th century. Tsui said he was drawn to Wu’s ambition, her proposals for reform, and her attempt at giving women more freedom. “I stand on her side,” said Tsui.
Choosing the cast was not difficult. Tsui pictured Andy Lau as Detective Dee ever since he had an idea for making the film 10 years ago. Tsui also picked Carina Lau as Empress Wu and reputable Chinese actress Bingbing Li as Empress Wu’s right hand, Shangguan Jing’er. Director Tsui said he has a habit of casting actors he likes or has worked with before.
Making movies was Tsui’s passion from a young age. Tsui’s family moved to Hong Kong from Vietnam, after which he decided to study filmmaking in Texas. He later moved to New York and worked for a newspaper. Soon after, he recalled, there was a “thought attacking me.” This thought was that he needed to return to Hong Kong to pursue filmmaking in China. He added that he’s fond of China’s traditional history, and this fondness can be seen in his films.
Tsui was also one of the judges at the 57th Cannes Film Festival.
“Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame” opens in the United States on Sept. 2.
