The new disaster film "Cesium Fallout" kept audiences on the edge of their seats at its premiere, telling a cautionary tale about battling a Cesium-137 radiation leak in China's Hong Kong region.

An IMAX poster for "Cesium Fallout." [Photo courtesy of IMAX China]

Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope that is used by many commercial and industrial sectors. Having a half-life of 30 years, Cesium-137 during its period of decay emits gamma rays, which can negatively impact "human health." The radioactive isotope can even cause death.  

Directed by Anthony Pun and starring Andy Lau, Bai Yu and Karen Mok, "Cesium Fallout" delivers an apocalyptic scenario in which government officials, firefighters and experts race against the clock to address a Cesium-137 radiation leak and save millions of lives. The film also explores themes of heroism, complex human nature, corruption among officials and businessmen, and environmental pollution.

Veteran producer Bill Kong shared at the Beijing premiere on Oct. 28 that his inspiration for creating the film came after seeing news about illegal transshipment of foreign waste and wanting "to let the whole world know."

"Waste recycling sites and imported trash pose many safety hazards," he said, "we interviewed environmental experts and learned that, in the past, some foreign companies, to save on recycling costs, dumped electronic waste overseas, with some of it sent to Hong Kong. Electronic waste contains many harmful substances and, if they seep into soil and water sources, they can severely damage the environment. Through this film, I hope to spark public concern about these issues."

At the Beijing premiere, real-life firefighters brought hazmat suits similar to those used in the film, adding authenticity that impressed the audience. They explained that the 27-kilogram suit's oxygen supply "only lasts for 30 minutes."

Director Pun shared that filming the scene where Andy Lau and Bai Yu wore these suits to locate hazardous substances was especially challenging, as the real breathing apparatus and 20-minute countdown intervals added intense tension both on and off set.

Cast and crew interact with the audience at the premiere for "Cesium Fallout" in Beijing, Oct. 28, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Dark Horse Entertainment]

A pre-record speech by the prominent Chinese director Zhang Yimou was also played at the premiere. In his video address, Zhang described the film as a rare disaster blockbuster that portrays a "doomsday scenario triggered by a hazardous substance leak," adding that it "fills a gap in Hong Kong cinema."

Zhang also noted that this film is not just a commercial blockbuster but a profound message that addresses the critical issue of environmental pollution, provoking people to think about how to face the future of planet Earth.

"Cesium Fallout" will hit theaters nationwide on Nov. 1, with advanced limited screenings having already started on Oct. 25, receiving positive feedback from moviegoers.