Before K-dramas dominated local screens, Filipino audiences were already hooked on Chinese entertainment. From lighthearted romcoms to action-packed adventures and even supernatural stories, Chinese films and series had long been crowd favorites. Who could forget the early 2000s craze when Meteor Garden and the F4 fever swept the country, rivaling even the popularity of Mexican telenovelas at the time?
Now, Filipino moviegoers can look forward to another wave of laughter and excitement as one of China’s biggest box-office hits finally arrives in local cinemas. Never Say Die, the comedy blockbuster that captured audiences in China and Hong Kong, is set to tickle Filipino funny bones with its unique mix of humor, romance, and action.
Starring Ai Lun (Edison) and Ma Li (Xiao Xiao), the film tells the story of a down-on-his-luck former Ultimate Fighting King (UFK) boxer and a feisty celebrity journalist who suddenly switch bodies. What follows is a series of hilarious and chaotic misadventures as they try to untangle their complicated lives and unexpected bond.
Upon its release in 2017, Never Say Die became China’s highest-grossing film of the year, raking in an impressive US$334 million. It even surpassed Jackie Chan’s Kung Fu Yoga, which earned US$250 million, making it the top single-territory live-action comedy in history.
Directed by Yang Song and Chiyu Zhang, the movie is based on a stage play by Happy Mahua Pictures, the same comedy troupe behind the hit Goodbye Mr. Loser, which also featured the dynamic duo of Ai Lun and Ma Li. Their undeniable chemistry shines once again in this feel-good adaptation.
With its witty storytelling, laugh-out-loud moments, and a touch of heart, Never Say Die is a must-watch for fans of Chinese cinema and anyone in need of a fun movie escape.
The film is distributed in the Philippines by Creative Products Corporation and released by Star Cinema.