Callina Liang’s Behind-the-Scenes ‘Street Fighter’ Photos Reveal Chun-Li’s Journey

As ‘Street Fighter‘ hit theaters this week, the buzz around Chun-Li had been intensifying for over a year. Fans meticulously followed every costume reveal and casting decision, with Callina Liang at the forefront of this excitement. The latest behind-the-scenes photos from ‘Street Fighter’ provide a glimpse into why her portrayal of Chun-Li has sparked such discussion.

Liang was cast in June 2025 following her standout performances in Steven Soderbergh’s ‘Presence’ and the ‘Bad Genius’ remake. Since then, she has consistently shared set photos, each one capturing the attention of a fan base that has experienced a rollercoaster of live-action adaptations over the decades.

The latest images offer an unusually candid perspective on life behind the scenes. One photo features Liang taking a mirror selfie in Chun-Li’s iconic blue costume, her hair styled in the character’s signature buns, with visible scrapes and dirt on her arms from a fight scene. Another shows her being lifted by a large, bearded man in a black tank top, with a brick building and waterfront in the background.

The playful second image contrasts sharply with the gritty first, together encapsulating both the challenges and enjoyment of creating an action film.

This isn’t the first time Liang has shared such images. Previous posts showcased the complete outfit, including the ox-horn hair buns and spiked wrist cuffs, with one revealing a torn, scuffed costume marked with what appeared to be blood and dirt. She humorously noted on Instagram that she didn’t have time for touch-ups, a candid response to the intense scrutiny.

Other posts depicted her lying on the floor among broken bricks and crew members, and another featured her executing sharp kicks. These images have quickly gained traction, with one post of the Chun-Li actress surpassing 5.2 million views on X.

The film was primarily shot in Sydney, with production taking place from August 18 to November 12, 2025, across various locations in the city and at Disney Studios Australia in Moore Park. The NSW Government reported that the shoot created 317 jobs, including 24 cast members and 293 crew, generating an estimated $80 million in economic impact for the state.

The production utilized five sound stages for principal photography and stunt rehearsals, filming at notable sites like Luna Park and Maroubra Beach. Although the initial plan was to conclude in late October, the schedule extended a few weeks longer.

According to Skydance, the film features 14 major fight sequences, choreographed by second unit director and stunt coordinator Jon Valera and his team. Chun-Li’s fighting style incorporates elements of Chinese martial arts, and for her iconic spinning bird kick, a former Cirque du Soleil performer assisted, utilizing harnesses and rigs to enhance the aerial effect.

Liang prepared for her role by practicing kicks for two hours a day, six days a week before arriving in Sydney. Her co-star Andrew Koji trained for six months in the UK prior, and their training sessions together in Sydney helped strengthen their on-screen chemistry. Director Kitao Sakurai emphasized to Skydance that the film aims to be a standalone entity while still respecting the source material.

Set in 1993, the film follows estranged fighters Ryu and Ken Masters, portrayed by Koji and Noah Centineo, who are drawn back into battle when Chun-Li recruits them for the next World Warrior Tournament. The cast also features Jason Momoa as Blanka, Cody Rhodes as Guile, Roman Reigns as Akuma, 50 Cent as Balrog, Orville Peck as Vega, and David Dastmalchian as M. Bison.

Liang has mentioned that she closely studied the games, downloading every version onto her PlayStation 5 and recording Chun-Li’s moves in slow motion. She also focused on building her leg strength through a rigorous workout regimen and a bulking diet to achieve the character’s distinctive appearance.

The film premiered in theaters and IMAX on October 16, receiving a mixed response. Critics have been divided, with the Rotten Tomatoes score hovering around 45%, while audience ratings sit at 82%. Many reviewers praised the cast, fight choreography, and stylish animated sequences, but criticized the screenplay.

This division makes Liang’s on-set photos even more significant, offering a glimpse into what fans value: a cast that has clearly dedicated themselves to the material.

PERFECT! Watch the New Trailer for Street Fighter, hitting theaters everywhere October 16. https://t.co/jAAPf1k9jf

— Street Fighter Movie (@Street_Fighter) September 1, 2026

There’s something refreshing about seeing a lead actress reveal the raw side of making an action film. Bruises, ripped costumes, and playful lift photos tell a different story than polished promotional images. They also highlight the immense physical effort that goes into every kick performed on screen.

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