Lawrence Ng Enters AI Filmmaking, 20-Year-Old Heartthrob Returns to the Big Screen

(Hong Kong, July 29) Veteran Hong Kong actor Lawrence Ng has revealed that he has entered the world of AI filmmaking by licensing his image rights for a movie that recreates his appearance at the age of 20.

Speaking at a promotional event for his new drama Crime Beyond Bounds, the 62-year-old actor said the production uses artificial intelligence to digitally recreate his younger self, allowing him to appear in the film without taking part in the actual filming.

Ng said he has already watched the finished version and was impressed with the result. "They made a movie using my 20-year-old appearance. I didn't have to film anything, and I'm very satisfied with the final product. It also let me relive the feeling of being a leading man," he said.

He added that a formal agreement had been signed with the production company, giving him confidence that his image rights are properly protected. As for the payment, Ng described it as "quite satisfactory" and believes AI is unlikely to replace actors entirely, but could instead open up new creative possibilities for the entertainment industry.

Joking about the technology's convenience, Ng said AI productions would allow him to keep working even if he were injured. "I could practically finish the job while sitting down—even with an injured leg," he quipped, adding that AI and traditional acting can coexist in the future.

Asked whether he would personally perform intimate scenes if required, Ng joked that it would depend on his co-star. "If it's Ankie Bea, then sure," he laughed. Bea, who attended the event, responded that since they play husband and wife in the drama, she would have no issue filming such scenes if the script required them.