Ping Pong: The Triumph

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Ping Pong: The Triumph
Theatrical release poster
Chinese中国乒乓之绝地反击
LiterallyChina's table tennis counterattack
Directed by
Written by
  • Yu Baimei
  • Pei Liu
  • Hui Meng
Starring
CinematographyMax Da-Yung Wang
Edited byBallu Saluja
Music byAndrew Kawczynski
Production
company
Hengye Pictures
Distributed byChina Lion Film Distribution
Release date
  • 17 February 2023 (2023-02-17)
Running time
137 minutes
CountryChina
LanguageChinese
Box officeUS$14.1 million[1]

Ping Pong: The Triumph (Chinese: 中国乒乓之绝地反击) is a 2023 Chinese sports drama film starring Deng Chao, Sun Li and Timmy Xu. The story draws inspiration from a true incident centered on table tennis coach Cai Zhenhua who assembled five talented players at the 1995 World Championships. The film was developed following the success of the 2021 television series Ping Pong.[2]

Set between 1992 and 1995, the story follows a table tennis coach inspired by Cai Zhenhua, who returns from abroad determined to make a difference. Under his leadership, five players — Ding Song, Ma Wenge, Wang Tao, Liu Guoliang, and Kong Linghui; come together in Tianjin, where they embark on a remarkable journey culminating in a dramatic comeback at the World Championships.[3]

Release

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On 24 January 2023, the film was initially released; after a moderate initial response, it shifted to limited viewing the next day. Later, it was re-released on 17 February 2023.[4]

On 14 November 2024, it was dubbed and distributed in Italy under the title Ping Pong: Il Ritorno by Imago Communication; marking an European Premiere.[5]

Reception

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James Marsh of South China Morning Post rated the film 3/5, stated "Ping Pong: The Triumph is a slick, polished production fueled by national pride and nostalgia. The spirited ensemble keeps us invested in the individual challenges and struggles faced by the team. While not a classic, it should get its intended audience on its feet".[6] Carla Hay of Culture Mix stated "Ping Pong: The Triumph is more than about winning games. It’s a predictable underdog story with a rather bland screenplay, but the action scenes are well filmed and keep viewers interested".[7]

Soundtrack

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""No One Called "Hey"""
Song by Lorne Balfe and Andrew Kawczynski
ReleasedJanuary 20, 2023 (2023-01-20)[8]
Length4:35
LabelEast Asia Record Production Company Limited
SongwriterTang Tian
ProducerYu Fei
Official video
Ping Pong: The Triumph - Song on YouTube

Accolades

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Award Category Recipient Result Ref.
Golden Rooster Awards Best Picture Ping Pong: The Triumph Nominated [9]
Best Director Deng Chao & Yu Baimei Nominated
Best Art Direction Huo Tingxiao Nominated
Best Sound Recording Feng Yanming & Lin Xuelin Nominated

References

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