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Ke Huy Quan’s Resurgence: Leading Role in ‘Love Hurts’

Ke Huy Quan is experiencing a remarkable revival in his acting career following his celebrated performance in Everything Everywhere All At Once. After winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, Quan has secured noteworthy roles in various projects including Disney+ series such as American Born Chinese and Loki Season 2, as well as films like Kung Fu Panda 4 and the upcoming Russo Brothers’ Netflix film The Electric State. However, stepping into his first leading role in the film Love Hurts proved to be a significant challenge for him until he received sage advice from an esteemed director.

In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Quan revealed that the legendary Steven Spielberg—who directed him in his breakthrough role—was instrumental in helping him recognize his potential as a leading man. In recounting their conversation, Quan described Spielberg as deeply understanding and supportive, particularly during a moment of self-doubt. He shared how he pitched the film idea to Spielberg, who ultimately encouraged him to accept the role.

“I was at an event with Steven Spielberg when he inquired, ‘Ke, how are you doing?’ I confessed that I was feeling overwhelmed. Despite the encouragement I had received during awards season, I was anxious about potentially disappointing people with my next project. Steven was incredibly kind, suggesting we have lunch together. I conveyed my thoughts on this project, and he affirmed, ‘Ke, it’s great. Do it,'” Quan told the magazine.

‘Love Hurts’ Will Finally Put the Spotlight on Ke Huy Quan

Quan’s start in the film industry began with his role as Short Round in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, so it is heartening to see Spielberg still supporting him all these years later, urging him to take center stage. The first trailer for Love Hurts introduces a unique kind of action hero portrayed by Quan, who plays Marvin Gable, a prosperous realtor grappling with his past as a hitman.

Quan discussed the unconventional narrative approach of the film in the same Empire interview, revealing how the creative team’s belief in him shifted his perception of the role:

“Initially, I doubted that I could fit the mold for this character. Fortunately, the team persisted in their belief in me. When I eventually returned for a third audition, they presented intricate slides depicting me as the lead. This is when I began to view the character differently; they aimed to redefine the archetype of an action hero, breaking away from the traditional portrayals we’ve seen over the years.”

Love Hurts is slated to be part of an exciting lineup in February 2025, alongside titles like Captain America: Brave New World and the horror feature Heart Eyes. With a promising mix of genres, 2025 is set to be an eventful year for cinema, and Quan’s upcoming action-comedy could emerge as a standout, giving broader audiences a chance to see him as a leading actor, just as Spielberg envisioned.

Synopsis of Love Hurts:

Marvin Gable, a successful realtor, finds himself pulled back into his criminal past when he receives an unexpected message from a presumed dead former associate. As he becomes the target of his crime lord brother, Knuckles, Marvin must face the repercussions of his earlier life choices and confront the shadows he thought he had left behind.

Release Date: February 7, 2025

Director: JoJo Eusebio

Source
movieweb.com