Well Go USA has announced the acquisition of North American rights to Louis Koo's ambitious action drama, "Back to the Past," and will be releasing the film in theaters on January 30th. The film, directed by Ng Yuen-fai and Jack Lai, continues the story of the popular 2001 Hong Kong series, "A Step Into the Past," reuniting many of its original stars, including Koo, Raymond Lam, Jessica Hsuan, Sonija Kwok, and Joyce Tang, alongside new additions Michael Miu, Bai Baihe, and Louis Cheung.
Set several years after the events of the TV series, the film follows Koo's character, Hong Siu-lung, as he is drawn back to China's Qin Dynasty to join forces with Emperor Ying Ching (Lam) to fend off a time-traveling adversary whose quest for revenge threatens both the empire and the future. The project was produced by Louis Koo and Wai-Bat Tang, with action choreography by Hong Kong legend Sammo Hung.
"Back to the Past" offers something for everyone, seamlessly blending expertly choreographed action with rich historical elements and innovative science fiction. As Doris Pfardrescher, president and CEO at Well Go USA Entertainment, notes, "The film is an enthralling epic that is sure to rekindle nostalgia for devoted fans and will become a fast favorite for those discovering the universe for the first time."
The film has already opened to strong returns across Greater China. In Hong Kong, "Back to the Past" grossed $1.48 million (HK$11.54 million) on its first day – the biggest opening day ever for a local Hong Kong film – and went on to earn $5.4 million (HK$42.36 million) over its debut weekend. In mainland China, the movie generated $24 million (RMB 78.6 million) during the same opening frame, according to Artisan Gateway.
Continuing the narrative thread from a series that has long held cult status across Chinese-language markets, "Back to the Past" blends sci-fi with palace-era intrigue and large-scale action set-pieces. Visual effects were handled by the team behind Koo's 2022 sci-fi hit "Warriors of Future," underscoring the new film's franchise ambitions.
Well Go – which specializes in Asian action and genre titles for North America across theatrical, home entertainment, and digital platforms – will follow the theatrical rollout with downstream releases, including availability on the company's Hi-YAH! streaming channel. With its captivating blend of historical drama, sci-fi, and high-octane action, "Back to the Past" is poised to be a must-see for fans of Asian cinema.
