In films, the public is quite familiar with the character Zhan Zhao, who is always by the side of Bao Zheng, assisting him in solving cases. This character is known for his exceptional martial arts skills and high-ranking abilities in the martial arts world. However, the true identity of this individual is not widely known.
Is Zhan Zhao a real historical figure or just a fictional character?
According to Chinese historical texts, Zhan Zhao, originating from Hubei, was a character who lived during the Song Dynasty under Emperor Taizu.
Zhan Zhao was a martial artist from the rivers and lakes, possessing extraordinary martial arts skills. Discovering the integrity of Bao Zheng, he decided to join him in his pursuits. Bao Zheng trusted Zhan Zhao immensely, and together, they faced various cases. After that, Zhan Zhao was bestowed the title “Guardian of Justice” (or sometimes referred to as “Zhan the Protector”).
Zhan Zhao, along with characters like Gongsun Ce, Yu Meng, Ma Han, Zhang Long, and Zhao Hu, played a significant role in assisting Bao Zheng in numerous cases.
Zhan Zhao is a real historical figure in Chinese history.
The most significant period of Zhan Zhao’s life was with a group of sworn brothers known as the “Six Heroes,” due to their extraordinary skills, including the likes of Tan Tian Shi, Zhi Yi Da, Xue An, Sui Jian, Yan Jiang, and Gan Mao. Zhan Zhao had a special bond with Duyung Ren.
Zhan Zhao is a loyal aide of Bao Zheng.
Zhan Zhao in the movies: A handsome hero with martial arts skills
Although Zhan Zhao is a real character, he has not been extensively covered in historical texts. Notably, there are no surviving images of this character. He is more famous in the realm of Chinese folklore and cinema.
Ha Gia Kinh is known as “the most handsome Zhan Zhao on screen.”
The film Bao Zheng from 1993 is recognized as a classic work in the Asian cinema scene and particularly in Chinese cinema. The film depicts the legendary case-solving adventures of Bao Zheng and his loyal assistant Zhan Zhao alongside Gongsun Ce.
With a characteristically righteous image, Zhan Zhao, as Bao Zheng’s right-hand man, is beloved by audiences.
In the film, Zhan Zhao embodies the image of a handsome hero and serves as a loyal aide to Bao Zheng. He often protects Bao Zheng, and there are many instances where he puts himself in danger for his master. He also assists Bao Zheng greatly in the investigation process.
The image of Zhan Zhao in popular films, characterized by his distinctive colorful attire.
In the film Bao Zheng, Ha Gia Kinh plays Zhan Zhao – the high-ranking martial artist and loyal aide to Bao Zheng. The era of martial arts is portrayed with the actor winning the audience’s affection through the image of Zhan Zhao – a heroic figure with an impressive martial arts background.
This role has made the actor, born in 1959, a leading star in Asia, becoming one of the most sought-after actors in the film industry throughout the 1990s.
Alongside Ha Gia Kinh, many stars like Lu Luong Vu, Luu Duc Hoa, and Tieu An Tuan have contributed to the legendary portrayal of Zhan Zhao. However, when speaking of this legendary character, Ha Gia Kinh is the name that stands out the most. To this day, the actor is still recognized with the title “the most handsome Zhan Zhao on screen.”
