Alfred Hsing Lands Role as Chinese Laborer Opposite Joel Edgerton in Train Dreams, Now Picked up by Netflix
Alfred Hsing lands an emotionally impactful role as a Chinese laborer (named Fu Sheng 福生) who works alongside Robert Grainier (Joel Edgerton) who one day is brutally hauled off by a group of men for an unknown reason. Grainier caught up in the confusion is swept in, briefly joining the group of men. Later throughout the film, Grainier is haunted by the actions of that day and regret and guilt follow him.
In the film the Chinese laborer was one of many that worked on the railroads and serves as a representation of the widespread prejudice and violence against Chinese immigrants, highlighting their vulnerability and exploitation.
But he also had a name: Fu Sheng. 福生.
福 (fú) means “blessing” or “good fortune,” and 生 (shēng) means “life” or “birth.” Together, the name suggests a life full of blessings. A full and abundant life.
There’s something bittersweet in this name because in a way he attempted to live his life to the fullest, coming to America, making the most of what he thought would be best, but of course also facing the harsh realities of the times.
Train Dreams premiered at Sundance 1/26 and stars Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, with William H. Macy, Alfred Hsing, Kerry Condon, Nathaniel Arcand, and more. It is directed by Oscar nominee Clint Bentley (co-writer Sing Sing) and produced by Marissa Mcmahon, Teddy Schwarzman, Will Janowitz, Ashley Schlaifer, and Michael Helmler. Executive producers: Joel Edgerton, Scott Hinckley.
Train Dreams was picked up by Netflix immediately following its premiere at Sundance.
