Snake Eyes: what we learned from Henry Golding’s candid Comic-Con interview – the G.I. Joe Origins movie that ‘has everything’
Comic-Con 2021 kicked off with a virtual event for the Paramount Pictures movie, which opened on July 23 in the US. Mari Takahashi hosted the highly anticipated “Unmasking Snake Eyes” discussion, which featured behind-the-scenes film footage and candid interviews.
Paramount also held special fan screenings of Snake Eyes in Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, Washington, Seattle, Miami, San Diego, Houston, Phoenix and Vancouver.
While movie critics have given the film mixed reviews, there are still several great reasons to watch Snake Eyes.
Interview: Scarlett Johansson on Black Widow, Marvel’s movie of the summer
It gives us G.I. Joe’s origin story
For years, fans have wanted to know G.I. Joe’s origin story – this film creates an understanding of the years that made the enigmatic character what he is.
Legendary G.I. Joe comic book writer Larry Hama loved the added prequel history of Snake Eyes that he never “delved into” in the comic book, as the character never speaks. “It adds a whole dimensionality to the character, who couldn’t exist when he was faceless and voiceless,” he said.
Hama was equally thrilled to see how the movie updated his original story. “The film gives you a deeper sense of who both of these characters are, because Storm Shadow and Snake Eyes are really two sides of the same coin,” he said.
Golding addressed why the relationship between the dynamic duo has intrigued fans for decades: “The relationship between Snake and Storm has always been one of the most iconic. One minute, they’re brothers; the next, they’re adversaries, the next, they are kind of fighting for the greater good. But we need to understand where all of that stems from, and this film showcases that.”
When Takahashi asked what he was most excited for audiences to see, Golding quipped: “Of course the action! The creation of that iconic relationship between Snake and Storm Shadow, but also the launching of this entire franchise.”
Mother, soldier, superhero: Gal Gadot talks feminism and Wonder Woman 1984
The film locations are stunning
In addition to shooting in Vancouver, British Columbia, other scenes were filmed in Japan. The Malaysian-born Golding was impressed by the gorgeous scenery, architecture and historical treasures.
“Some of the locations that we filmed at were just amazing,” Golding enthused. “Thousand year old temples. Himeji Castle being one of the greatest ... Because Japan plays such an integral role, it was so important to get that right.”
What has the Crazy Rich Asians cast been up to?
Henry Golding shows he’s more than just love interest
Golding, the much-loved Crazy Rich Asians star, proved that he is just as capable of being an action actor as he is portraying a romantic lead.
Golding said that once he was cast in the role, the reaction he is getting from G.I. Joe fans has truly excited him.
“There has been an amazing outreach from fans all around the world, for a chance to see the man behind the mask. To understand the relationships that have brought him to the place where we all know him as that weapon, we finally sort of have a peek into Snake Eyes himself.”
5 Asian actresses who made it in Hollywood, from Bae Doona to Maggie Q
Among the “countless” favourite moments Golding had on set is the car carrier scene, which “unfolds with your heart in your mouth!”
Playing a ninja was equally a blast. “Ninjas are cool because of their dedication they put in to honing their skills, accomplishing missions. I think we all pretended at some point in our childhood to be ninjas or snake eyes!””
STYLE’s film awards: Hong Kong’s best movies of 2020, ranked
It has some impressive – and beautiful – fight scenes
“Many movies have sword fights,” he said. “Many movies have amazing car action. Many movies have blazing gun battles. This movie has everything.”
Want more stories like this? Sign up here. Follow STYLE on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter.
- Before coaching the Crazy Rich Asians star, Snake Eyes’ stunt and fight coordinator Kenji Tanigaki worked with Hong Kong icons Jackie Chan and Donnie Yen
- Comic-Con 2021 kicked off with a virtual event for the martial arts prequel, also starring Samara Weaving, Úrsula Corberó, Andrew Koji and Iko Uwais