The lead actors of "That Untold Story" sat down with China.org.cn recently to discuss their portrayal of the love story at the heart of the film. Directed by Zhang Yan, the film is an adaptation of the widely popular novel by author Twentine, capturing a romance that is as heartbreaking as it is beautiful.

A still image from "That Untold Story." [Photo courtesy of Maoyan Entertainment]

"That Untold Story" follows the relationship between Yang Zhao, an art conservator, and Chen Mingsheng, a narcotics officer working undercover as a taxi driver. Their deep love for one another is tested by Chen's dangerous double life, forcing him to make painful decisions. The complexity of the couple's bond and the sacrifices they must make form the emotional core of the film.

Roy Chiu and Lang Yueting, who play Chen and Yang in the film, had not read the novel ahead of receiving the script, which they found deeply touching. Afterward, the pair sought out the original novel to help gain a better understanding of their characters and the story.

Lang was particularly struck by her character's profession. "The quality of her work brought something to her, so she has the emotion and feeling to mend the fragmentary," she explained. In the film, Yang carefully and gradually restores a vase as her relationship with Chen deepens. To ensure authenticity in her portrayal, Lang received guidance from two art conservation experts.

While Lang immersed herself in the meticulous art of restoration, Chiu's performance captures the essence of his character, a man trapped in a dark, isolated world until Yang becomes his light.

"Chen Mingsheng is used to living in the dark; he has no light in his life and avoids being seen, rarely communicating with others. But with the appearance of Yang in his life — yes, she's his only light," Chiu explained.

Although the two characters come from starkly different backgrounds, they share a sense of isolation. Lang noted that Chen is forced into loneliness due to his profession, while Yang's solitude is a product of her personality and her job. "In some ways, they're both loners, and they can understand each other."

Even while filming the tender romantic moments, both Chiu and Lang found themselves heartbroken knowing how the story ends. The emotional impact of the film left them reflecting on how they themselves view love.

"We need to be more timely when it comes to love and the people we care about," Chiu said. "Honestly, sometimes a day feels long because I get so much done and I feel like there's plenty of time. But that's not really the case. Sometimes, in the blink of an eye, 10 years have passed. Time is very short — it doesn't wait."

Lang, too, offered her own perspective on love. "Sometimes I think about how some relationships can be long-lasting, like a steady stream, flowing slowly and naturally as part of daily life," she said. "Then, there are relationships like Yang and Zhao's, which may not be as grounded in everyday life but exist perfectly in a single moment. So, love can take many different forms, and that's completely fine."

"That Untold Story" was released in Chinese theaters on Nov. 9, earning an impressive 62 million yuan on its opening day.

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