Singapore’s New Action Flick: Women, Boots, and Fake Rifles
When director Jack Neo hinted that his upcoming film would thrust female Singaporeans into the world of compulsory national service, the reaction was immediate and electric. After all, this concept has been a hot topic on chat forums for years—now it’s finally getting a blockbuster treatment.
Behind the Scenes: The Boot‑Camp Adventure
To get the actresses truly into the ditch, Jack figured the best approach was a real‑world boot‑camp simulation. None of the cast had previous military experience, so the crew brought in former soldiers and professional trainers. They spent a series of days teaching the film’s “soldiers” everything from:
- Basic drills
- Holding a rifle properly
- Proper posture when firing
Even though the guns were just props, they were surprisingly heavy—so heavy, in fact, that the actors felt like they’d stumbled onto an “unreal” battlefield.
Why Fake Rifles Feel Real
Jack joked that the prop rifles are “even a little heavier than the real ones.” The actresses marveled at how intimidating the weight felt after holding them for the first time. One actor laughed, “I wondered if the soldiers actually carry that heaviness during training, but I guess our Singaporean soldiers are pretty used to it.”
What the Training Revealed
Beyond the physicality, the boot camp was a sneak‑peek into the characters’ personalities. The director noted “everyone was very positive,” and the crew confirmed they were all buzzing with excitement.
Is This Military Reality?
The film isn’t officially supported by the Singapore Armed Forces, so the crew had to roll their own version of basic training. Jack Neo explained that the movie’s training segment will showcase fresh, inventive takes—yes, we’re talking custom obstacle courses and inventive drill routines that differ from the regular male recruit training.
Film Details: Stars and Release
Premised for the Chinese New Year 2022, Ah Girls Go Army features a formidable lineup:
- Apple Chan
- Ke Le
- Samantha Tan
- Xixi Lim
- Eswari Gunasagar
- Kelly Kimberly Cheong
- Glenn Yong
If you’re eager to see whether these women can survive “real” military training, stay tuned for the film’s release. Bear in mind this is all staged drama, but the humor and heart may just make you believe the action is legit—at least until you realize the rifles aren’t real.
