Film lovers will be excited that China and the US plan to jointly shoot a 3D version film of the Chinese classic 'Journey to the West'. The project was launched on Wednesday and plans to stay faithful to the original story while introducing new elements.

Film lovers will be excited that China and the US plan to jointly shoot a 3D version film of the Chinese classic 'Journey to the West'.

Actor Zhang Jinlai starred as Monkey King in the remarkably successful 1986 television series. The series was based on the classic novel 'Journey to the West'. He will take up the role again in the 3D film version. Ma Dehua will also be back as Pigsy. Though now in his fifties, Zhang remains confident about once again donning the monkey crown.

"I've still got my moves! What matters is portraying the uniquness of the role and his emotions. Special effects help, but they're there to enhance the content, not replace it. No amount of technology can replace the traditional oriental money show," said Zhang Jinlai, actor of 'Journey to the West'.

The China production team is joining forces with Paramount Pictures. The Chinese will be responsible for the script and filming while the American side provides technical support and market promotion. The film aims to honor the orginal story but also make it appealing and approachable for an international audience.

"The main plot is certainly faithful to the original, but we want to help people understand what sort of character the Monkey King really is. I often tell my foreign friends that once you understand the monkey king, you understand China," Zhang said.

The producers are hoping that people across the world will soon understand China.

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