Xu Xi (Barbie Hsu) Draws Attention for Her Role in a Masterpiece Film with Jung Woo-sung (Video)

Following the sudden passing of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu (Xu Xi), wife of DJ Koo, at the age of 48, renewed attention is being drawn to her role alongside Korean actor Jung Woo-sung in the acclaimed film Reign of Assassins (剑雨). Released in 2010, the film combines breathtaking martial arts action with an emotional narrative, making it a beloved classic among martial arts fans to this day.

Directed by Hong Kong’s legendary John Woo (Wu Yusen) and Taiwan’s Su Chao-pin, Reign of Assassins boasts an impressive cast, including Michelle Yeoh (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2; Crazy Rich Asians; Everything Everywhere All at Once), Jung Woo-sung, Wang Xueqi (who played the villain Radioactive Man in Iron Man 3), Barbie Hsu, and Shawn Yue (Yue Wen-le).

Set during the Ming Dynasty, the story follows a quest for the remains of a legendary Buddhist monk that disappeared 800 years earlier. Martial artists from across the nation converge to claim them. Jung Woo-sung’s character, Jiang, loses his father to assassins who sought half of the remains. Jiang changes his identity and lives quietly as a courier, until he falls in love with Zeng Jing (Michelle Yeoh), a silk merchant hiding her past as a top assassin. When Zeng’s true identity is revealed after a mysterious swordsman’s attack, Jiang is forced to confront the secrets they both share.

Upon its release, Reign of Assassins was praised for being more than a typical martial arts film, offering a deep exploration of human emotions and fate. The movie seamlessly blends action and emotional storytelling, leaving audiences with a lasting impression.

Critics lauded the film, with reviewer Lee Yong-chul awarding it 4 out of 5 stars and calling it a “satisfying revisionist martial arts film.” Film critic Ju Sung-chul added, “Fans of classic martial arts films will be on the edge of their seats,” also giving it 4 stars.

Oh Dong-jin, writing for The Kukmin Ilbo, described it as “a visually stunning martial arts spectacle,” adding, “Directors John Woo and Su Chao-pin created an unparalleled fusion of action choreography. It’s unlikely we’ll see such a dazzling, intense martial arts experience anytime soon.”

Barbie Hsu’s transformation in the film left audiences stunned. She portrayed the character Jade, a seductress and assassin willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals, even murdering her husband and his family on their wedding night. As a secret weapon for the Black Stone Clan, her emotionless facade and deadly precision created a chilling contrast to her innocent appearance, delivering a memorable performance.

Audiences praised her drastic transformation from her previous innocent roles, including her lead performance in the popular drama Meteor Garden. Her performance in Reign of Assassins remains one of her most celebrated roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Reign of Assassins is currently available on various streaming platforms for viewers to rediscover this martial arts classic and Barbie Hsu’s unforgettable performance.