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| Wang Yibo and Tang Wei Unite in Intercross, A Three-Country Epic Set to Shake Cinemas in 2026 (Photo: Weibo/Sina) |
Wang Yibo and Tang Wei are officially joining forces in the upcoming Chinese film Intercross (人鱼/Ren Yu), a cross-border arthouse project directed by Cheng Er that is already being tipped as one of 2026’s most ambitious cinema releases. With a story spanning China, Vietnam and Japan, and a cast that blends star power with serious acting credentials, Intercross has quickly become one of the most anticipated Chinese films on fans’ watchlists.
The film marks Wang Yibo’s reunion with director Cheng Er following their collaboration in Hidden Blade. This time, however, the scale feels even more daring. Intercross is described as a multi-country narrative that weaves together three lives from entirely different worlds — yet somehow binds them through fate, longing and self-discovery.
At the heart of Intercross is a quiet young tomb keeper living deep in the Greater Khingan Range, an icy and remote region in northern China. Isolated from society, he leads a silent and restrained life until he travels south for the first time — stepping into a humid, crowded and temptation-filled environment that challenges everything he knows.
In Hanoi, Vietnam, a middle-aged man moves through life with bittersweet resignation, while a mysterious “merman” performer captivates audiences with imaginative, almost surreal dance routines. Meanwhile, in Aomori, Japan, a young female university student studies art, navigating her own emotional awakening.
They live in different climates, cultures and emotional realities. Yet their destinies intercross.
Tang Wei takes on the bold role of a Hanoi-based “merman” performer — a character layered with symbolism. Her profession blurs the lines between performance and identity, illusion and survival. It is a visually demanding role said to explore the emotional cost of living as both spectacle and spectator.
Wang Chuanjun plays a middle-aged man whose life is closely tied to the Hanoi storyline, reportedly bringing a grounded, complex presence to the film’s emotional core. Rising young actress Huang Yici steps into the role of the Japanese art student, with netizens already praising her suitability for the character’s aesthetic and temperament.
Wang Yibo’s dedication has once again become a hot topic online. Reports say he lost around 7.5 kilograms for the role and underwent six months of underwater training. Fans have highlighted his commitment to physical transformation and immersive preparation, calling it another sign of his steady evolution as a serious film actor.
Director Cheng Er has publicly praised Wang Yibo’s growth, describing him as someone who has truly embraced the craft of acting and transformed into a strong cinema performer. Their creative partnership has become one of the more respected director-actor collaborations in recent Chinese film discussions.
Production-wise, Intercross is backed by a high-level creative team. The art department reportedly includes crew members who previously worked on The Wandering Earth, while the sound team has experience from A Writer’s Odyssey. That combination alone suggests a visually rich and atmospherically layered film experience.
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| Sina |
Filming has been conducted largely in private since July 2024, adding to the mystery. Despite limited official footage, excitement has only grown. Over 480,000 users have reportedly added the film to their watchlist on major ticketing platforms, showing strong early anticipation.
The official release date for Intercross has not yet been announced. However, industry insiders suggest a 2026 cinema release window.
With post-production likely focused on polishing its artistic and international elements, fans are expecting a carefully timed premiere, possibly aligned with major film festivals.
For international fans, Intercross is expected to receive English subtitles upon release. While the primary launch will likely be in Chinese cinemas first, there are rumours that global streaming platforms may secure broadcasting rights after its theatrical run.
If you are outside China, your best bet will be:
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Waiting for official international distribution announcements
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Checking major global streaming services once the film completes its cinema release
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Following official cast and studio updates for subtitle and region release news
As of now, no platform has been confirmed, but strong overseas interest makes an international release highly probable.
Expect a visually atmospheric, character-driven drama rather than a fast-paced commercial blockbuster. Intercross appears to lean heavily into artistic storytelling, philosophical themes and emotional symbolism. The contrast between extreme cold in northern China and the humid intensity of Hanoi suggests powerful visual metaphors throughout the film.
There is also a strong focus on identity, youth turbulence and the search for meaning in unfamiliar environments. The three-country structure alone signals a layered narrative designed to spark discussion rather than provide simple answers. Reactions online have been varied but passionate.
Wang Yibo’s fans are largely excited, especially after hearing about his physical preparation and reunion with Cheng Er. Many believe this project will further cement his transition into serious cinema territory.
Tang Wei’s casting has also generated strong interest. Film enthusiasts see her role as potentially one of the most symbolically rich performances of her recent career.
On the other hand, some netizens question whether the arthouse tone will appeal to mainstream audiences. A few have voiced concerns that cross-border narratives can sometimes feel abstract or slow-paced.
However, others argue that this artistic ambition is exactly what makes Intercross stand out in a crowded market. Overall, curiosity seems to outweigh scepticism.
Are you ready to see Wang Yibo and Tang Wei’s chemistry unfold on the big screen? Do you prefer bold arthouse storytelling or more commercial cinema?