Award-winning actor Chang Chen reveals his character in the upcoming sci-fi epic “Dune” is a “struggling and tragic” figure, during a remote press conference held via an online video talk during the ongoing 78th Venice International Film Festival.

Adapted from the 1965 sci-fi novel of the same name by American author Frank Herbert, the tale set in the distant future fictionalizes a feudal interstellar society in which various noble families rule planetary fiefs.

Chen, best known for director Wong Kar-wai’s “The Grandmaster,” plays the fictional character of Dr. Wellington Yueh, a physician who serves the aristocratic family of the protagonist, a young heir who is entrusted with the protection of the most valuable asset and most significant element in the galaxy.

Aside from Chang, director Denis Villeneuve, as well as stars Timothee Chalamet and Rebecca Ferguson, also appeared remotely to share behind-the-scenes stories with more than 80 Chinese journalists who gathered in a hotel in downtown Beijing on September 2.

Chang said he had discussed with Villeneuve about how to better incarnate his character, who he believes is full of dramatic tension despite limited appearances in a few scenes.

“I have tried to focus on diving into the psychological layer. If you could judge this figure from a broader and higher perspective, you will find he’s quite struggling and hesitant for being forced to do something that he’s actually reluctant to do,” Chang added.

The film is confirmed to be shown in the Chinese mainland with a release date yet to be decided. (China Daily)