China's comedy megastar Shen Teng shows another side of his acting prowess in the upcoming gangster film "Untouchable".

A poster for "Untouchable." [Photo courtesy of C2M Media]

Directed by Wang Daqing and starring Shen Teng, Jack Kao and Zhang Yuqi, the film depicts a former boxing champion who becomes a mob boss in Macao. Taking place in 1996, Shen's character leads a group of gang members to become the capable wingmen for a wealthy businessman. As the character rises in power with his gang, he faces escalating schemes and betrayal, which causes Shen's character to face a life-or-death dilemma.

According to screenwriter and executive producer Shang Ke, the script was completed as early as 2006 and pays homage to young people in the 1990s, particularly those who moved from northeast China to southern China in search of better opportunities. He added that the protagonist is a prototype for these young northerns who move south to make ends meet. Shooting for the film started in 2018. 

At the time Shang was searching for an actor to play the lead role, he saw Shen Teng's portrayal of Charlie Chaplin in a comedy show and was impressed by Shen's charm and affinity as an actor from northeast China. He approached Shen with the script, and Shen agreed to take on the role within 24 hours. 

A superstar in China's comedy genre, Shen has amassed 39.7 billion yuan at the box office for films he has contributed to. When Shang Ke approached him, Shen had just contributed to two films, and "Untouchable" would have been his third film if its release hadn't been delayed.

"At that time, I was not perceived by the audience as a man of comedies, so I didn't feel any pressure. I just found this role very familiar to myself and thought I could understand him, so I went ahead with it," Shen explained at the premiere for "Untouchable" that was held in Beijing on Aug. 21. He added that he felt very lucky to have played such a vivid and fleshed-out character.

Cast and crew pose for a photo at the premiere for "Untouchable" in Beijing, Aug. 21, 2024. [Photo courtesy of PFDM Media]

Director Wang echoed Shen's assessment, praising his physical appearance and demeanor as a perfect match for the protagonist.

At the premiere, the audience responded positively to the gangster film. Among the guests was Frant Gwo, the director of "The Wandering Earth," who praised Shen for his acting skill's adaptability to perform well in both the comedy and noir worlds. Gwo also praised Shen's portrayal of the mob boss, highlighting his softer, loyal and kind side.

"Untouchable" will be released nationwide on Aug. 23. 

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