Actor Quach Ngoc Ngoan is making a notable return to historical dramas after an eight-year hiatus, taking on the role of Ta General in 'Ho Linh Trang Si'. This character, a loyal aide to King Dinh Tien Hoang, is depicted as sacrificing personal happiness for the greater good of the nation. He shares a profound bond with the protagonist, warrior Nguyen Phong (Tuan Tran), having sworn a blood oath with Nguyen Phong's father. Despite his deep concerns for the country's fate, the general strives to protect his daughter, An Nhien (Thien Tu), from the dangers of war, wishing only for her a peaceful life.
Behind the scenes: Quach Ngoc Ngoan as a general in 'Ho Linh Trang Si'. Video: *Film crew provided*
Preparation for the role was extensive, with Quach Ngoc Ngoan dedicating about four months to rigorous training at the Lien Phong martial arts academy, under the guidance of action director Johnny Tri Nguyen. The actor faced considerable pressure from the notoriously strict and meticulous director, who constantly pushed the cast to maintain production schedules. The film's crew spent six months meticulously developing unique martial arts techniques and choreographing fight sequences, which were then assembled on set.
Quach Ngoc Ngoan admitted to losing his passion for acting for an extended period following the success of 'Nguoi Bat Tu' in 2018, directed by Victor Vu. He found himself unable to connect emotionally with characters or grasp their psychological depth and narrative direction when reading scripts. Fearing a negative impact on film quality, he declined numerous offers and gradually stepped away from cinema.
However, since late last year, Quach Ngoc Ngoan has regained his professional inspiration, largely due to encouragement from colleagues. He emphasizes his commitment to intense focus on set, regardless of whether he plays a lead or supporting role. During the Binh Ngo Tet holiday, he appeared in 'Bau Vat Troi Cho', alongside Tuan Tran and Phuong Anh Dao, a film that grossed over 100 billion VND. In addition to 'Ho Linh Trang Si', his upcoming projects include 'Trai Buon Nguoi', a film addressing cross-border fraud.
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Quach Ngoc Ngoan's portrayal as Ta General. Photo: *Xuan Tho*
'Ho Linh Trang Si: Bi An Mo Vua Dinh' is a project director Nguyen Phan Quang Binh conceived over 10 years ago, inspired by a story told by a ferryman in Ninh Binh. This historical fantasy film opens with the assassination of King Dinh Tien Hoang. Seven warriors are entrusted with a critical mission: to race against time, confront hostile forces, and transport 100 coffins of the king in seven different directions. The primary objective of this intricate task is to deceive enemies attempting to desecrate the king's tomb.
The film's production involved casting actors in TP HCM and Ha Noi, beginning mid-5/2025, with filming scheduled to last three months. The cast includes lead actors Tuan Tran and Thien Tu, alongside supporting characters such as artist Tu Long as a shaman, Do Thi Hai Yen as the empress, and Hua Vi Van as a mandarin. Musician Quoc Trung is responsible for the film's score, while Nguyen K'Linh, known for his work on 'Dia Dao', serves as the director of photography.
Teaser for 'Ho Linh Trang Si' - scheduled for release during the 2/9 holiday. Video: *Film crew provided*
Quach Ngoc Ngoan, 42, originally from Ca Mau, has a distinguished career with notable performances in films such as 'Long Thanh Cam Gia Ca', 'Cuoc Chien Hoa Hong', 'Cat Nong', and 'Ty Phu Chan Vit'. His accolades include Best Lead Actor at the Vietnam Film Festival 2011, Best Film - Television Actor at the Mai Vang Awards 2014, and winner of Tinh Bolero 2020. His lead role in 'Nguoi Bat Tu', a spiritual film directed by Victor Vu, garnered critical acclaim, establishing him as a highly regarded actor in the industry.
In 2012, Quach Ngoc Ngoan married actress Le Phuong, but their marriage ended after three years. They have a son, Ca Phao, 14. Following the divorce, the actor was involved with businesswoman Phuong Chanel for over six years.
Mai Nhat
