Lewis Tan on Elevating Action in 'Mortal Kombat II' and His Functional Training Philosophy
Lewis Tan, the action star celebrated for his dynamic roles, recently offered a candid glimpse into his life, spanning from the intensified action sequences in his latest film, 'Mortal Kombat II,' to his unique approach to physical conditioning and diet. The actor, whose upbringing was deeply rooted in martial arts, champions a philosophy of constant readiness, a principle that dictates both his professional endeavors and personal wellness choices. His insights reveal a dedication not just to performance, but to maintaining an authentic physical prowess that translates convincingly on screen.
Tan, who reprises his role as Cole Young in 'Mortal Kombat II,' underscored the evolution of the sequel's combat choreography. He highlighted a collaborative process with stunt professionals and fight choreographers, many of whom he shares a long-standing connection with through the martial arts community. This synergy, combined with lessons learned from the first installment, allowed for greater creative freedom, leading to more impactful and visually striking fight scenes. Tan emphasized that the new film pushes boundaries, delivering action that is not only more intense but also integrates seamlessly with a more profound, almost Shakespearean narrative, particularly focusing on the relationship between Princess Kitana and her father, drawing from the rich lore of the video game.
Reflecting on his early life, Tan recounted a childhood immersed in the world of stunts and martial arts, influenced significantly by his father, a renowned stunt coordinator. From practicing kickboxing and Muay Thai to daring feats in grade school, his formative years instilled in him a deep understanding and passion for physical storytelling. This background enables him to excel in diverse roles, seamlessly transitioning between various martial arts styles required for complex choreographies. He expressed a concern for the potential erosion of practical stunt work in an era dominated by CGI and AI, advocating for the preservation of raw, visceral human performance in cinema, much like the iconic work of Buster Keaton.
Beyond the silver screen, Tan detailed his holistic approach to health and fitness. His training regime, which includes martial arts four days a week and weight training, prioritizes functionality and movement over bulk. He shared his preference for specific cardio exercises like the rowing machine and incline walking over treadmill sprinting, citing their effectiveness and reduced impact. His diet, which he humorously refers to as "man food," is centered around lean proteins like elk and wild-caught salmon, along with nutrient-rich vegetables and whole grains. He advocates for listening to one's body, emphasizing the importance of real, unprocessed foods and mindful eating patterns, including intermittent fasting, to optimize energy and well-being.
Tan's journey underscores the intricate balance between artistic expression and physical discipline. His commitment to authenticity in action roles is mirrored by a thoughtful and personalized approach to his health, demonstrating that true mastery extends beyond the performance to encompass a lifestyle of continuous learning and self-optimization. He continues to inspire by not only pushing the boundaries of on-screen action but also by embodying a philosophy of sustained physical and mental readiness.