John Woo asserts that Hollywood action has lost its edge
John Woo claims Hollywood action has been significantly toned down in his latest interview Discover the unexpected source of inspiration behind Woo's new action movie
Director John Woo has recently stated in an interview that Hollywood action has been "tuned down" with his latest film Silent Night being his first Hollywood outing in 20 years. The movie is already generating a lot of anticipation among John Woo fans, and initial reactions to the film are already sparking mixed opinions.
The official synopsis of the movie is: "A man witnesses his young son's death on Christmas Eve when the boy is caught in the crossfire between warring gangs. After recovering from a wound that took his voice, he sets out on a brutal and vengeful mission to punish those responsible."
Director John Woo recently discussed the contrast between Hong Kong and Hollywood action in an interview, noting that Hollywood action is often more toned down.
John Woo says Hollywood action is “tuned down” in new interview
In a new interview with Letterboxd, Silent Night director John Woo stated that American action is often “tuned down” when describing his action influences.
"Hong Kong doesn't have many restrictions," Woo remarked. "You have a lot of freedom. That's why the explosions and action scenes are so intense and dangerous. We filmed everything without CGI.
"In America, everything must be toned down and executed with great care."
The director is renowned for his work on Hollywood blockbusters like Face/Off and Mission: Impossible 2, as well as his involvement in Hong Kong favorites like A Better Tomorrow.
Woo continued by describing his approach to the film, stating, "I portrayed the story of an innocent kid being murdered by a gangster on Silent Night." He emphasized the serious nature of the film, explaining that the action needed to be realistic rather than extravagant or over-the-top. "The action in Silent Night appears authentic, like a genuine fight," he concluded.
John Woo’s unlikely action movie inspiration
John Woo also explained that action sequences in his previous movies took inspiration from unlikely places – including old-school Hollywood musicals.
"When I was younger, I was incredibly passionate about musicals," Woo explained. "I drew so much inspiration and knowledge from them. Now, when I choreograph action sequences, it feels like I'm creating a dance. I adore the art of dancing, the elegance of body movement, and the rhythm."
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Editor's P/S
John Woo, the legendary Hong Kong action director, has recently expressed his concerns about the state of action movies in Hollywood. In a recent interview, Woo stated that Hollywood action has been "toned down" and lacks the intensity and danger of Hong Kong action films. He attributes this to the restrictions and regulations in Hollywood, which require action scenes to be executed with great care and toned down.
I agree with Woo's assessment of Hollywood action movies. In recent years, it seems like action movies have become more focused on big-budget special effects and CGI rather than the raw, gritty action that made them so popular in the first place. The action sequences in many Hollywood films feel safe and sanitized, lacking the visceral impact and emotional intensity of the action scenes in Woo's films.
Woo's approach to action is unique and refreshing. He draws inspiration from unlikely sources, such as old-school Hollywood musicals, to create action sequences that are both visually stunning and emotionally engaging. His films are full of dynamic camera work, intricate choreography, and realistic stunt work that make the action feel real and impactful.
