The hard-boiled martial arts action film Furious is scheduled to open in theaters on October 7. Directed by Kenji Tanigaki, the film follows two men—a father searching for his kidnapped daughter and an investigative reporter—as they confront a massive criminal syndicate and a corrupt system.
Furious Release Date Set for October 7, Bringing Hard-Boiled Martial Arts Action to Cinemas
Production Background and Creative Team
Furious was developed with the explicit goal of continuing the tradition of classic martial arts cinema while introducing contemporary action aesthetics. Veteran Hong Kong producer Jiang Zhiqiang, whose credits include Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Hero, and The Lover, joined an assembly of Asian film professionals to back the project.
Director Kenji Tanigaki entered the martial arts genre through the influence of Jackie Chan’s films, later working with the Kurata Action Club and becoming the sole Japanese member of the Hong Kong Stuntmen Association. Tanigaki’s directorial approach relies heavily on practical movement and physical acting over computer-generated imagery. Kensuke Sonomura, known for One Touch and the Baby Assassins series, served as action director, coordinating sequences designed to carry narrative momentum.
Practical Stunts and Filming Details
Production took place in Bangkok, Thailand, over a three-month schedule. To maintain the feel of traditional martial arts choreography, the production utilized wide shots and long takes rather than rapid cuts or tight framing. Cast members and stunt teams performed the physical sequences directly; for example, star Xie Miao completed a hammer-throwing sequence after 32 attempts.
Safety preparations for the climactic police station sequence included installing foam padding on corners and utilizing wire rigs to manage high-impact choreography. The creative team also featured designer Hai Zhongwen (The Warlords, Comrades: Almost a Love Story), cinematographer Zhang Wu-Ge (Time Still Turns the Pages), and art director Pongnarin Jongpochklang (Mechanic: Resurrection).
Cast and Narrative Structure
The screenplay was written by a team including Philip Yung (Trivisa), Mak Tin-Shu, Lui Chi-Lung, and Shum Kwan-Cheng. The story centers on Wang Wei, played by Xie Miao, whose daughter is abducted by criminals, and journalist Navin, played by Joe Taslim, who investigates a series of mysterious disappearances. Both characters navigate a political and criminal structure that marginalizes vulnerable citizens.
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