Famous Hong Kong director Stanley Tong has been preparing for his new project Lady General Hua Mu Lan, ever since his latest film The Myth, starring action hero Jackie Chan and Korean favorite Kim Hee-Seon, was a big success. 

 

It is reported that the director has commenced selection for the leading roles of the US$20 million blockbuster, and he recently set his sights on the hottest Chinese star in Hollywood, Zhang Ziyi.

 

An assistant to the director confirmed that the shooting will formally begin in Canada and China in October, and that Zhang Ziyi is currently reading the script and has not yet made a decision.

 

The story is based on the historic Nan-Bei Dynasties period and embodies the popular folk tale entitled Hua Mu Lan. The film will present a variety of styles, from moving love scenes to huge war scenes.

 

(CRI February 27, 2006)