Meet Naran, the model-actress rising to fame as Su Daji: the Russian-Mongolian star is a hit in Chinese fantasy epic film Creation of the Gods I, but first entered showbiz in a Jay Chou music video
Hailed as the largest-scale production of a fantasy epic in Chinese cinema, the Fengshen Trilogy under director Wuershan saw its first part, Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms, hit theatres at the end of July to both critical acclaim and box office success. The film is an adaptation of the classic 16th century Chinese novel by Xu Zhonglin.
Amid the buzz, all eyes are on 26-year-old newcomer Naran, the latest in a line of actresses to take on the pivotal role of Su Daji. Naran, who made her on-screen debut in a Jay Chou music video in 2016 and whose full name is Narana Erdyneeva, brings the enchanting character to life with her unique aura.
Find out more about the rising star who triumphed over thousands of contenders to play Su Daji.
Naran has multicultural roots
Born and raised in Ulan-Ude, the capital of Buryatia in Russia, Naran has a multicultural heritage, with Mongolian and Russian roots. She is fluent in Chinese, English, and Russian. Her background is in modelling.
10 Asian stars rocking Barbiecore in 2023: from HK’s Grace Chan to Blackpink
Reimagining Su Daji
Su Daji, a consort of the Shang Dynasty often associated with a fox spirit, is reputed to have precipitated the dynasty’s downfall. Her captivating beauty is said to have led King Zhou down a path of tyranny and immorality.
In any production of the fantasy epic over the years, each time a new actress is cast as Su Daji, it generates a significant buzz as viewers wonder just how she will interpret and breathe life into this legendary character.
Is Blackpink’s Lisa dating an LVMH heir – and will she end her YG contract?
Her performance garnered effusive praise from netizens, who marvelled at her ability to infuse new life into this timeless character. They have flocked to her Weibo account, propelling her followers to an impressive 740,000 within a remarkably brief span.
She is multitalented
Naran’s path to securing the role was no easy feat. Surpassing 15,000 contestants, she emerged as one of the final 20 chosen for an exclusive six-month training camp. Diligently, she mastered old Chinese, dance, the guqin and combat techniques with a rigorous regimen.
To accurately portray the elusive nature of a fox, she immersed herself in months of research, observing their behaviour in zoos and studying documentaries. Her commitment was exemplified by her year-long preparation for a solo dance sequence, wherein she wore hair extensions reaching her toes for a flawless performance.
Praised by the film’s director for her tenacity and unwavering resolve, Naran also loves boxing and yoga, and is committed to her physical fitness and overall well-being.
7 famous Hongkongers you didn’t know have Filipino roots
She’s a fashionista who loves Chanel
On another occasion, she was seen embracing the Chanel Métiers d’Art 22/23 collection, wearing a black lace top and printed denim jeans, along with ethnic-inspired accessories and earrings.
Naran’s airport fashion is also a delightful sight. She once confidently donned an all-pink outfit, reportedly also from Chanel, giving off a sweet and girlie vibe. She also clearly has a well-toned physique, which adds to her overall allure and captivating presence.
- Su Daji, a royal consort and fox spirit from the classic 16th century Chinese fantasy novel, has been portrayed by Fan Bingbing, Gillian Chung, Irene Wan and Ruby Lin in adaptations through the years
- Naran, aka Narana Erdyneeva, plays the role in the Fengshen Trilogy’s first film to great acclaim – off-screen, the 26-year-old is a fashionista who loves wearing Chanel