New footage from the Chinese film ‘One and Only’ (original title: 热烈), set to be released nationwide on September 6th, has been unveiled.
The film stars Wang Yibo, a member of the boy group UNIQ and its main dancer/lead rapper. ‘One and Only’ tells the story of a determined young man striving to be at the top of the national breaking competition, who, despite setbacks, pursues his dream with unwavering passion.
The newly released footage captures a scene between the protagonist, Chen, and his coach at a rooftop practice spot. In the scene, Coach Ding Lei abruptly addresses Chen, saying, “You know what this is about. You’re working hard, and that’s not the problem. But the situation is bad. We can’t keep you on as a replacement for Kevin.” Facing a crisis in the professional breaking team “Exclamation Point!,” they no longer have the luxury to keep Chen, who was brought on as a substitute for the ace, Kevin. Chen listens solemnly as the coach tells him, “I don’t want to make a dancer work for free.” Chen, placing his helmet down, begins to dance silently, transitioning from steps to power moves and finally freezing. Chen’s commitment is clear as he insists, “I believe I’ve improved in the 21 days since joining the team. If I can’t compete, I’ll support my teammates. I’ll do anything I can, whether it’s cooking, driving, or walking the dog.” Seeing Chen’s determination, the coach, looking at the sky, offers to help by saying, “The situation is tough. There’s work for events, but I won’t force it.” Chen immediately responds, “It’s fine,” and when the coach asks, “What does that mean?” Chen confirms with a firm “I’ll do it.”
In this scene, Chen performs a challenging power move known as elbow air tracks. Danny, a leading figure in China’s breaking scene who served as the film’s dance director and choreographer, praised Wang Yibo’s high physical abilities. “When I first met him, I was impressed by his receptiveness and understanding. It only took him two hours to smoothly perform all the moves to my rhythm. I judged him to have high capability in mastering various street dance styles.” Danny also noted, “He didn’t just build a foundation in breaking; his quiet practice without anyone watching led him to master many crucial moves. I thought Yibo was a talented young man, but I didn’t know he possessed both effort and talent.”
One and Only
Director: Da Peng
Starring: Wang Yibo, Huang Bo, Liu Mintao, Xiao Shenyang, Raleina Song, Wang Feifei
Screenplay: Su Biao, Da Peng
Cinematography: Rui Zhong
2023 / China / Mandarin / CinemaScope 1:2.35 / 124 min / Original Title: 热烈 / Subtitle Translation: Akiyo Kanbe / Distribution: Sai Pro / Rating: G
©Hangzhou Ruyi Film Co., Ltd.
Nationwide release from September 6 at TOHO Cinemas Hibiya and other theaters.
Synopsis:
Wang Yibo plays Chen Shuo, a young man who, while juggling multiple jobs, is determined to become a professional dancer. One day, Chen is approached by Ding Lei (Huang Bo), the coach of the professional breaking team “Exclamation Point!,” and is invited to join the team as a substitute for the ace. Taking his first step towards his dream, Chen begins to forge friendships with the members of “Exclamation Point!” and rapidly makes his mark. However, a significant challenge awaits Chen and the team as the national competition approaches.
