Never Back Down, an upcoming film written and directed by Golden Rooster Award-winner Qi Xing, will be released across domestic theaters on Aug 8.
The movie marks the first on-screen collaboration between actor Pan Binlong and actress Zuo Xiaoqing, who play a devoted couple striving to support their daughter — a girl born with a physical disability — in her dream of becoming an ice hockey player. The story follows the father's relentless efforts over 10 years to defy societal prejudices and help her overcome the impossible.
Pan, who's famous for his comedic roles in hit movies like Hi, Mom, said with this film, he is stepping out of his comfort zone for the first time to take on a serious, emotionally powerful role.
"The father in this story fights for his child's future, defying all kinds of societal prejudice. He uses his wit and unshakable determination to overcome every obstacle. This character reminds me of some uncles I knew growing up — ordinary people whose strength came from love," said Pan.
Actress Zuo, who plays the mother in the film, shared a childhood memory of her father — a devoted film lover who regularly subscribed to Popular Movies, one of China's most influential film magazines.
"My father used to say, 'I hope one day you'll be on the cover of this magazine,'" recalled Zuo. Interestingly, Zuo first appeared on the magazine's cover while still a student at the Beijing Film Academy. Since then, her father has meticulously collected every newspaper and magazine article about her — a gesture Zuo cherishes as a heartwarming blessing.
