In director Ham Tran’s film, Thanh Son plays Binh, an air marshal on his way home to welcome his first child when a hijacking occurs. He performs numerous breathtaking fight sequences. Before the first cinetour in Hanoi, the actor discussed his role and upcoming plans.

- What challenges did you face in your first action film?

- To prepare for the role, I gained 4 kg and trained for a more muscular physique. My biggest concern was the limited training time, with only four or five sessions before filming. On the airplane cabin set, after the set design and camera angles were finalized, there were changes, meaning the fight choreography we learned differed from what was filmed, requiring quick improvisation.

'Sky Battle' has many action scenes, but luckily no one suffered serious injuries, though bruises, broken nails, and head bumps were common. Initially, I thought there would be stunt doubles. However, in the confined space and mostly close-up shots, to best convey the emotions to the audience, the actors had to perform the fight sequences themselves.

In some scenes, I saw people in pain but continuing to act, or there were moments where we couldn't distinguish real blood from fake. Everyone was so focused that we forgot the pain. For example, Vo Dien Gia Huy (as Ti) dislocated his shoulder and even a slight touch would worsen it, which worried me greatly. It took a while for me to regain my composure.

Thanh Son practicing martial arts. Photo: Provided by the actor

- What memorable behind-the-scenes stories can you share?

- The film has only one setting, the airplane, so we were on set from 6:30 am to about 8:30 pm. For a month, we worked, ate, and bonded together. I also want to commend all the extras. During that time, they were with us and helped us a lot. Their performance helped elevate our emotions.

Another memory is that every time we started filming, we had to turn off the air conditioning to avoid affecting the sound recording. Consequently, the action scenes became like cardio sessions, and the actors often used that heat to film several takes in a row.

- What was your experience working with director Ham Tran for the first time?

- I received a casting call from the production team. Initially, I hesitated because I didn't have much information about the project, only knowing it was a hijacking film with action scenes. What drew me to Ho Chi Minh City for the audition was director Ham Tran, due to the impressive storytelling in his previous works.

There was a scene where I was injured in the leg. Although the wound was internal and wouldn't be visible to the audience, Ham Tran always wanted me to wear makeup. His goal was for the actors to remember and fully embody their characters. So, I spent about 30 minutes each day on this process.

Before filming, he suggested that the actors do push-ups to increase blood flow to the brain. The veins on the forehead or the bloodshot eyes had to be created from that warm-up. He also always asked everyone, "What is your mission in this scene? Why are you saying this line?" to ensure we understood the context and the character's psychology.

Thanh Son at the film's premiere in Hanoi. Photo: Provided by the actor

- After a relatively minor appearance in 'Friend Zone', what does your role in 'Sky Battle' mean to you?

'Friend Zone' was like my debut project in the South, marking my return to cinema after many years. I played a supporting role with limited screen time, so I didn't have many opportunities to showcase myself. When I got to participate in Vietnam's first film about hijacking, I was nervous but more excited because I got to work in a genre I love.

On television, audiences are used to seeing me in romantic dramas, but I'm actually interested in crime and action genres. Now, I'm relieved because I've tried my best, and the film's success depends on how the audience receives it. If I receive positive feedback, I'll be more confident to try similar projects.

- What are your plans for the next television series after "My Family is Unexpectedly Happy"?

- After two years, I will return to the audience in an 18-episode series, airing in November. The series belongs to the fantasy genre, and my co-star is a dog. This role is completely different from previous ones, demonstrating my stepping outside my comfort zone in script selection.

Thanh Son, 34, is an artist at the Youth Theater. He has made a mark on television audiences through series like 'A Lifetime of Resentment', 'Bride for Rent', 'Touch the Memory', 'Don't Make Me Forget', 'Love and Ambition'. In 2021, the actor won the Golden Kite Award for his role as Dang in '11 Months 5 Days'.

Phuong Linh