The Robbers expected to hold up at the boxoffice

The action-comedy drama The Robbers stole the spotlight a promotional event this week at Peking University. Producer and actor Hu Jun, along with the cast, joined in a discussion with students.

The laughter from the audience greatly soothed Hu Jun's anxiety over the film's reception.

Hu Jun, lead actor and producer, said, "If every cinema reacts to a scene like this, I'm sure this movie will make money."

A Tang Dynasty village is the setting for Yang Shupeng's The Robbers. It's about two professional thieves who unwittingly come to the defense of a community being harassed by soldiers.

The film is a mix of comedy, drama, action and romance. It explores the themes of loyalty and brotherhood.

An audience member said, "This movie challenged the audiences's thinking. For example, Hu Jun made a lot jokes and they are quite novel. It also impressed me with its scenes, the actors' lines and fight choreography."

The Robbers will steal the show at cinema's across China on Friday.