Last Updated on 2025 年 8 月 20 日 by 総合編集組
“96 Minutes”: Taiwan’s Cinematic Breakthrough in Disaster Action Cinema
In 2025, Taiwan’s film industry reached a new pinnacle with 96 Minutes, a groundbreaking high-speed rail disaster action film that has captivated audiences and critics alike. Directed by Hung Tzu-Hsuan and produced by Tsou Chieh-Chung, this ambitious project, with a budget of NT$160 million, marks a significant milestone in Taiwan’s cinematic history.
Over nine years in the making, 96 Minutes not only introduces Taiwan’s first high-speed rail-themed disaster film but also showcases cutting-edge technology and a stellar cast, positioning it as a global contender in the action genre. Below is a detailed summary of the film’s narrative, production, cast, and its impact on both local and international stages.
A High-Stakes Narrative on a High-Speed Train
96 Minutes unfolds on a Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) train traveling from Taipei to Kaohsiung, a journey that takes exactly 96 minutes. The story revolves around a chilling bomb threat that transforms this routine trip into a race against time. The protagonist, Song Kang-Ren (played by Lin Po-Hung), is a retired bomb disposal expert haunted by a past explosion that left deep emotional scars. When a bomb is discovered on the train, Song is thrust back into action, tasked with defusing the device while confronting his personal demons. His fiancée, Huang Hsin (Song Yun-Hua), a determined police officer, joins him in this high-pressure mission, adding layers of emotional complexity to their relationship.
Beyond the central bomb-defusal plot, the film weaves a tapestry of human stories among the passengers. A physics tutor, Liu Kai (Wang Po-Chieh), boards the train to reconcile with his estranged wife, Ting-Chuan (Yao Yi-Ti), who harbors a mysterious motive. Other passengers, including those played by Tsai Fan-Hsi and Li Ming-Chung, face their own moral and emotional dilemmas as the crisis unfolds. This blend of external danger and internal struggles elevates 96 Minutesbeyond a typical action flick, offering a profound exploration of human resilience, sacrifice, and redemption under pressure. The film’s narrative structure draws parallels with global hits like Train to Busan, yet carves its own niche with its distinctly Taiwanese context and emotional depth.
A Stellar Cast Pushing Boundaries
The film boasts a powerhouse ensemble cast, featuring some of Taiwan’s most talented actors. Lin Po-Hung transforms into the rugged Song Kang-Ren, undergoing intense physical training to embody the weathered bomb expert. He gained weight, tanned his skin, and grew stubble to reflect the character’s gritty past, delivering a performance that balances stoicism with vulnerability. Song Yun-Hua, known for lighter roles, steps into the action genre as Huang Hsin, mastering complex fight scenes in the confined train setting. Her preparation included studying real-life police officers to capture the emotional weight of her role.
Li Li-Jen, often dubbed Taiwan’s “go-to cop,” plays Song’s commanding officer, Li Chieh, bringing authenticity through his research into bomb disposal protocols. His intense action sequences pushed him to physical exhaustion, a testament to his commitment. Yao Yi-Ti shines as the enigmatic Ting-Chuan, her expressive eyes conveying a story of secrets and conflict.
The supporting cast, including Wang Po-Chieh, Tsai Fan-Hsi, and Li Ming-Chung, adds depth to the ensemble, each portraying passengers whose personal stakes amplify the film’s emotional resonance. This collective effort marks a significant moment for Taiwanese actors, showcasing their ability to tackle demanding roles in a high-budget commercial production.
Technological Innovation in Taiwanese Cinema
The production of 96 Minutes sets a new benchmark for Taiwan’s film industry. One of its standout achievements is the creation of Taiwan’s first high-speed rail simulation studio in Taichung, costing NT$20 million. Built with components imported from Japan, the studio replicates a THSR carriage, complete with over 700 LED screens displaying dynamic scenery from Taipei to Kaohsiung. This immersive environment allowed actors to perform authentically without relying heavily on green screens, enhancing the film’s realism.
The team also adopted Hollywood’s Previs (pre-visualization) technology, using virtual cameras and 3D storyboards to meticulously plan action sequences. This approach ensured precision in the film’s complex chase and combat scenes within the train’s narrow confines. Additionally, the production included a massive street-closure shoot in Taipei’s Xinyi District, mobilizing nearly 1,000 extras and crew members to create authentic disaster scenes. This blend of cutting-edge technology and real-world filming demonstrates Taiwan’s growing capacity to produce world-class cinema.
Global Acclaim and Market Buzz
Even before its official release on September 5, 2025, 96 Minutes has garnered significant attention. Selected as the opening film for the 2025 Taipei Film Festival, its premiere tickets sold out in just one minute. The film also earned a spot in the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival’s “Bucheon Choice” competition and was showcased at Hong Kong FILMART and the Berlin Film Festival in work-in-progress screenings. These early screenings secured international distribution deals, signaling strong global interest.
The film’s trailer, released on May 27, 2025, amassed over one million views within days, sparking widespread excitement on social media. Comments like “Taiwan finally has a blockbuster action film!” and “The trailer gave me chills!” reflect the audience’s enthusiasm. Notably, Korean actor Ok Taec-Yeon publicly praised the trailer, boosting its international visibility. This social media buzz, combined with critical acclaim, positions 96 Minutes as a cultural phenomenon with the potential to redefine Taiwan’s place in global cinema.
Conclusion: A New Era for Taiwanese Film
96 Minutes is more than a film; it’s a testament to Taiwan’s cinematic ambition. With a NT$160 million budget, innovative technology, and a stellar cast, it breaks free from the constraints of small-scale arthouse films, proving that Taiwan can produce commercially viable, internationally competitive blockbusters. The film’s success at festivals and its viral online presence suggest it will resonate with audiences worldwide. As it hits theaters, 96 Minutes invites viewers to experience a thrilling 96-minute journey that blends heart-pounding action with profound human stories, heralding a new era for Taiwanese cinema.
