Cast members Shu Qi (left) and Donnie Yen promote the Hong Kong premiere of their film "Legend of the Fist: The Return of Chen Zhen" on Monday, September 20, 2010. [Photo: Tungstar/ent.sina.com.cn]

The new kung fu blockbuster "Legend of the Fist: The Return of Chen Zhen" has had a gala premiere at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center.

Director Andrew Lau, lead actor Donnie Yen and lead actress Shu Qi were all in attendance.

The film marks Yen and Shu's first collaboration. Shu says she admires Yen's work ethics.

"Donnie Yen wakes up early to practice martial arts and shape his figure. He watches his diet, and doesn't eat that much unless needed. He is highly self-disciplined and really respects his work. I learned a lot from him."

And the admiration is mutual.

"I also learned a lot from Shu Qi. Besides her acting skills, she is such a sincere person and she is an actress with real personality. I am looking forward to our next collaboration. I don't know when but I hope soon."

"Legend of the Fist: The Return of Chen Zhen" opened on the Chinese mainland on Tuesday (September 21). It will open in Hong Kong and Taiwan later in the week.