From Underdog to Champion: Shenzhen’s “Comeback” Tells a Story of Grit and Female Empowerment
A still from the low-budget film “Comeback.” (Photo courtesy of the production team)
Shenzhen, August 11, 2024 – After more than a year of script refinement, “Comeback” (铁拳雄心Ⅱ《逆袭》), Shenzhen’s 12th low-budget film, has recently commenced filming at the Longgang Eastern Film City in Shenzhen. Li Yawei, President of the Shenzhen Film and Television Industry Federation, Chairman of the Shenzhen Film and Television Artists Association, and General Commander of the Shenzhen Low-Budget Film Implementation Plan, along with Chief Producer Cai Shaoshan, General Producer Zhao Peng, Director Zhou Yuqi, lead actors Lu Zi, Zong Ming, Ai Lin, Li Zhuomei, and the entire crew, were present to witness the commencement of filming.
A Fusion of Boxing, Feminism, and Shenzhen Spirit
“Comeback” is a film that blends the intensity of boxing with the strength of female empowerment. It tells the story of an underdog female boxer who, after experiencing numerous setbacks, relies on her tenacious and indomitable spirit to ultimately achieve a life-altering comeback. The film incorporates Shenzhen elements and the vibrancy of contemporary culture, aiming to provide a unique glimpse into the dreams and perseverance of young people striving in Shenzhen, while showcasing the resilience of the female spirit.
Voices Behind the Film
Producer Cai Shaoshan expressed her decade-long commitment to producing works that promote positive energy and her anticipation for “Comeback” to showcase the proactive and progressive side of women. General Producer Zhao Peng emphasized the importance of film industry practitioners responding to the national call, believing in a strong cultural nation, and trusting in the future of the cultural industry. He noted that “Comeback,” as Shenzhen’s first locally produced film of 2024, has garnered attention and support from various parties.
Young director Zhou Yuqi expressed her gratitude for the guidance and encouragement she has received from Director Li Yawei since “The Secret of the Box.” She believes that “Comeback,” a film filled with feminine nuances, will achieve even greater success through the team’s efforts. Lead actress Lu Zi shared that she has never played a female character as unique as the protagonist in “Comeback.” She believes that women’s growth and experiences should not be limited to marriage, and that all walks of life are stages for realizing self-worth. Male lead actor Zong Ming mentioned that “Comeback” is his second collaboration with the production team. As an actor, he believes the most important thing is to focus on honing his character, living up to the expectations of the director and producers, and not disappointing all the staff who have contributed to the film. He holds high expectations for the film.
Shenzhen’s Commitment to Low-Budget Cinema
In late 2019, the Shenzhen Film and Television Industry Federation and the Shenzhen Cinema Federation jointly established the Shenzhen Low-Budget Film Implementation Plan Command Center. With the strong support of the Shenzhen Municipal Party Committee Propaganda Department over the past four years, the Command Center has reviewed hundreds of scripts, selected, modified, planned, and supervised 12 theatrical film projects for various private companies, resulting in the creation and production of 12 original theatrical films, including “Dad, I Will Make It,” “The Secret of the Box,” “Limitless Life,” “Navigation for Love,” “The Door Gods,” “Autumn Water Darling,” “The Children of Ai Bang,” and “Comeback.”