Dong recounts filming a scene where his character is pushed into icy water following a sauna. The scene is inspired by a traditional Russian custom to enhance children's physical endurance.

A fan of Soviet-era films, Xia says the Russian film industry stagnated in the 2000s, and its influence among domestic moviegoers fell.

China and Russia share some cultural similarities, he says, and adds that the two countries could cooperate more to make movies that can challenge Hollywood.

Additionally, he believes that films can increase mutual understanding and shake off stereotypes that exist about one another among the people of both countries.

China's rapid expansion in the internet era has been exemplified by mobile apps and electronic payment models that stunned some Russian members of the crew, Xia says.

Contact the writer at [email protected]