Q&A: Liao Fan
The pros and cons of acting
An adventurer at heart?
'Chollywood' goes arty
Chinese film a hit at Berlin Festival
Chinese film 'Black Coal, Thin Ice' wins Golden Bear in 64th Berlinale?
What is the most important reward for an actor - name recognition, awards or financial compensation?
It varies with the person. What I seek is a form of self-gratification. I was very satisfied when I saw Black Coal, Thin Ice for the first time in Berlin. I felt I had fulfilled what I wanted to achieve and it turned out better than what I anticipated.
You were not overcome with emotion when your name was announced. Why so calm?
Some of my friends wept. I had boasted that I would win and part of me believed in it. Of course, luck had something to do with it, too. I saw it as a manifestation that fate smiled on me.
Who are your career heroes?
As I get older, I watch more and more classics. Movies from the golden age tend to have deeper meaning than those in our era of fast consumption. Stars like Jean Gabin and Anthony Quinn were exemplary, especially in moments of explosion. I'm also drawn to the heroes in film noir such as those played by Humphrey Bogart.
What is the worst thing about acting?
The most unbearable thing is waiting. You don't know what's in store. Whatever pain you endure cannot be shared with others, but must be resolved by yourself. After Green Hat, I went through a slow period when I felt low and the projects offered to me did not interest me. I didn't know which way I should go. Later I tried small roles in commercially viable movies.
What's your biggest regret?
It is related to my career. Acting takes me to different places and I cannot be with my family all the time.
Are there roles you would absolutely not take on?
No, not that I'm aware of.
