A comedy about the ordeals of two unlucky men is slated to hit theatres on August 28. China's best-known comedian, Ge You takes the lead role. He is going to test his popularity during the fiercely competitive summer season.

The film, titled "Gasp," portrays two frustrated businessmen. American Frank is suffering from a mid-life crisis and tries to solve it by finding someone to buy his failing cheese factory. He comes to Beijing and meets Chinese investor Li Qiang, played by Ge You. However, Li Qiang also has a failing business and a dysfunctional family.

Teaming up with Hollywood actor John Savage, Ge You gets the chance to show off his recently acquired English skills.

Ge You often appears on screen during the Spring Festival season. He is still considered a box office draw. But whether this movie will become a blockbuster remains unknown.

This summer, domestic productions with smaller budgets have topped the box office in the Chinese mainland. The crime thriller "Overheard," animated film "McDull Wu Dang," and comedy "On His Majesty's Secret Service" currently top the box office charts.

They are going to be challenged by upcoming sci-fi thriller "Metallic Attraction" and light-hearted comedy "Sophie's Revenge."

(CCTV.com August 13, 2009)