John Woo, the legendary action director, is making his return to Hollywood with his upcoming movie, “Silent Night.” In an interview with Polygon, Woo discusses his inspiration for the film and his thoughts on returning to the Hollywood scene.
Woo is known for his iconic action films such as “Face/Off” and “Mission: Impossible II,” but he took a break from Hollywood in the early 2000s to focus on making movies in China. However, after almost two decades, he felt the time was right to come back to Hollywood.
“Silent Night” is a remake of the 1984 French film “Le Samouraï,” which Woo has always been a fan of. He was drawn to the story’s themes of redemption and the struggle between good and evil. Woo also wanted to bring his own style and vision to the film, making it a unique experience for audiences.
The movie follows a hitman, played by Zhang Hanyu, who is on a mission to redeem himself after a botched job. He must navigate through a dangerous world of crime and corruption while trying to protect a young girl who witnessed one of his killings. Woo describes the film as a “modern-day Western” with a mix of action, drama, and suspense.
Woo also discusses the challenges of making a movie during the COVID-19 pandemic. He had to adapt to new safety protocols and restrictions, but he was determined to finish the film and deliver it to audiences. He also praises the cast and crew for their dedication and hard work during these difficult times.
In the interview, Woo expresses his excitement to be back in Hollywood and work with talented actors like Zhang Hanyu and Michelle Yeoh. He also shares his love for the city and its film industry, saying, “Hollywood is like a dream factory, and I’m happy to be a part of it again.”
Woo hopes that “Silent Night” will not only entertain audiences but also leave them with a message of hope and redemption. He believes that in today’s world, where there is so much violence and chaos, it is important to have stories that remind us of the power of good and the possibility of redemption.
“Silent Night” is set to release in theaters on December 3, 2021. Fans of John Woo’s work and action movie enthusiasts can look forward to his return to Hollywood and his unique take on the classic story of “Le Samouraï.”
