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April 2002
The Bigwig (32 episodes) is being telecast daily on TCS 8, at 2.30pm, from 29 April 2002 onwards.
-- Drunken Monkey Behind the Scene Videos -- NetandTV has put up two behind the scene videos from Drunken Monkey. Video 1 | Video 2. The apparently emaciated Liu Chia Liang never yields to old age. Beside directing, he also acts in Drunken Monkey as an armed escort. With a blade in his chest, he still moved around the set with ease, issuing orders as if nothing had happened. It turned out that his chest was first wrapped with a piece of extra thick cloth, after which a piece of wood was attached, and on it was a short blade. Under the cover of his coat, with only the hilt was exposed, it looked as though he had been stabbed.
-- Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils -- Director Zhou Xiao-Wen talks about his ideal casting of Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils in this NetandTV Interview. He says that both Wu Jing and the younger days Jet Li fit the bill of being Duan Yu, the young prince of Dali. Both carry the air of nobility. However, casting will only be confirmed in June and the investors' decision will carry more weight. He says that the series will be using special effects only when necessary, such as Miraculous Six-Pulse Sword, an unparalleled skill belonging the Duans of Dali. Miraculous Six-Pulse Sword is an invisible stream of intangible energy that hits the target when unleashed. All together, there are six different streams of energy. Each sword stream is formed by gathering and directing the energy through a unique channel in the body and forcing the energy out through a finger (The sixth stream is channelled through the finger on the other hand). In the novel, only Duan Yu manages to master the skill, which demands someone with great internal strength. Ironically, Duan Yu is someone who dislikes learning martial arts for, being influenced by the Buddhist teachings which are prevalent in Dali, he doesn't advocate killings.
-- Shurayuki-Hime Trailer --
--Drunken Monkey -- Shaw Brothers had long wanted to invite Liu Chia Liang (Lau Kar Leung), who retired in 1994, (On the other hand, Liu Chia Liang did a short drama serial, Kungfu Master, with Mediacorp in around 1996), to return to the entertainment circle. Last year, Shao Yi Fu arranged for an appointment with Liu Chia Liang, and laid down their plan to work together. Their first project is Drunken Monkey, which began production in March, with newcomer, Yao Yao (Yiu Yiu), taking on the lead female role. Yao Yao, who passed the audition with flying colours, was formally accepted by Liu Chia Liang as his last disciple. And Shaw Brothers, seeing Yao Yao's potential, signed a six picture agreement with her, hoping to groom this Malaysian born dancer into an international action star.
-- Fann's Flight of Fancy -- It's lights, camera and too little action for actress Fann Wong, who's in Prague shooting her first Hollywood movie, Shanghai Knights. >> Full Story <<
-- Kelly Who? -- Kelly Hu prefers her leading men beefy, but without the fat. The 34-year-old Asian-American actress breaks out into a naughty, sorority-girl giggle when asked who is more delicious - gongfu star Sammo Hung or World Wrestling Federation bad boy The Rock? 'If I have to tell you that The Rock is sexier than Sammo, then I think you need some glasses,' she laughs over the phone from Taiwan, where she was promoting The Scorpion King in which she stars opposite the wrestler. 'I've never kissed Sammo, so I'm going to say the Rock, because he's a great kisser. And the fact that we both come from Hawaii adds to the connection.' Then there is the question of who has the best chops. '>> Full Story <<
-- Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils -- The Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils, an adaptation of Jin Yong's novel, may be Zhang Ziyi's first drama serial. Her manager brother, Zhang Zinan, explained that Ziyi already had plans of doing drama serials two years ago. She was approached by production of Wandering Insouciantly through the Martial Arts World (Xiao Ao Jiang Hu) in 1999 but turned down the offer as she was invited to be in Lee Ang's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Zhang Zinan said that she is exercising extreme care about doing TV series and would only confirm her role after having read the script. If Zhang Ziyi signs up with the production, she should be playing the two sisters, Ah Zhu and Ah Zi, one is a kind maid brought up in the Murong family, while the other, due to her upbringing in the unorthodox Xingxiu Sect, grew up to be a devious person. Both fall for Beggar Sect Leader Qiao Feng. Producer Zhang Jizhong says she admires Zhang Ziyi greatly and would be happy to work with her. Director Zhao Xiao Wen said that Zhang Ziyi was suggested by the producer and the investors when Vicky Zhao Wei has yet to make any confirmation about her acceptance of the twin roles. However, Zhao Xiao-Wen also said that the only confirmed role is that of his where he is playing a transcendental martial arts doyen.
-- Hero and Empire is of More Importance Photos -- Hengdian Orient Hollywood has put up four Zhang Yimou's Hero photos and quite a few The Empire is of More Importance photos.
-- Donnie Yen - Perfect Somersault --
Crossing over the straits from Hong Kong to America, with his
martial arts skills, Donnie Yen presents a flawless somersault. No matter how
advanced Hollywood's technology is, it can never replace a live action star's
immaculate somersault. "The audiences are getting more and more demanding. In
the past, when Arnold Schwarzenegger knocked down the enemy with a single blow,
they would be pleased. But now, if they still do the same thing, who would
bother watching?" Donnie Yen believes that the international movie market now
calls for real martial arts scenes due to the audience's yearning for
authenticity. >>Full
Story<< -- Wu Jing, the Seed of Happiness -- Wu Jing has been to Hengdian countless times to do filming, but it wasn't until China Hengdian Films Conference Evening that I met Wu Jing. At that time, when Director Tsui Hark, Lai Shui Qing were propelling the event to one peak after another, under the coaxing of the compere, Wu Jing went onto the stage. Rubbing his shiny bald head which was shaved for his role as Emperor Qianlong in Empire is of More Importance, he claimed that his head was shinier that the hanging bulbs, bringing about a string of laughter. Next, the self-confessed poor dancer and singer did not perform any entertainment. Rather, he delighted the crowd with his free-style debate.
Once, when I was interviewing the acclaimed director, Tsui Hark, when we talked about the new blood in the entertainment field, Tsui Hark especially mentioned Wu Jing, "Wu Jing is a colourful, exciting character, he is the type with plenty of potential to be mined. I hope he will achieve success and status in the film industry." While Wu Jing has not been in the field for very long, his acting talent is reaching an immaculate stage. Last year, on the set of Empire is of More Importance, Wu Jing was able to get into his character instantaneously, showing an exceptionally accurate mastery of his role, of the drama, right down to the minutest details. Director Jing Quan kept showering him with heaps of praise, saying that he had got it right. However, Wu Jing still humbly shuffled back to see the replay, asking if there was a need to do a retake. His earnest, no-frills work attitude was greatly admired, respected by the production.
Wu Jing said that he is now leading a dazzling life. His life in the past was simplistic. He said that he likes both types of lifestyle. Nowadays, many young people look forward to entering the entertainment circle. They idolise the stars greatly and yearn to be stars themselves. However, Wu Jing told us that, there are unpleasant sides to being an artiste, for there are many hidden sufferings that other people would never see. A winding, undulating path needs an optimistic person to walk on till it's flat. At the same time, it needs a believer of happiness seed - Wu Jing is always able to to deal with his happiness and sadness. This time, Wu Jing came to Hengdian with the production of Drunken Monkey. He is acting as the lead man, Ah-De in the movie. He is putting all his energy into the character. What others possess, Wu Jing may not have. What others lack may perhaps be found on Wu Jing, such as the happiness that forms one of the elements of Wu Jing's life, the success that demands much hard work.
Hengdian Orient Hollywood Tour, Issue 13, April 2002, Lang Ying-Xiu
-- Southern Shaolin TV Series -- Recently, over 30 selected people turned up to audition for for major parts in Southern Shaolin series, including some elderly, experienced actors and drama school students. The roles available were Fang Shiyu (Fong Sai Yuk), Hong Xi Guan (Hung Hey Kwun), Hongli, Zhuo Lin, Li Meng Yao, etc. That was but the initial screening to see if the appearances of the nominees match to characters in the series. The prospective actors and actresses had to gave a self-introduction themselves in front of the camera, put up a few poses, and perform a martial art display. The director will be further testing the nominees regarding their acting skills. The cast will be finalised by the end of April and shooting is to begin in May in Fujian. Video of the Audition from Net and TV.
-- Cover Story: Zhao Wen Zhuo -- Currently, Zhao Wen Zhuo is shooting Channel U's heavyweight drama serial, Romance of the Book and Sword in Hengdian, China. He's playing the lead role, Chen Jia Luo. Romance of the Book and Sword is Jin Yong's first novel and has been brought many times onto the screens. Adam Cheng's version of Chen Jia Luo has the most impact on the viewers. Now that Zhao Wen Zhuo is acting as this character, is he carrying all the cares of the world on his shoulders? >> Full Story <<
-- Drunken Monkey: Shanghai Set Report -- When interviewing Wu Jing, the action actor of Drunken Monkey (zui hou) that was in production in Shanghai, Wu Jing, he puckishly passed the microphone to an assistant director from Hong Kong, confounding this reporter with his half-baked Hong Kong style National Language. Grinning, Wu Jing spoke in properly enunciated Mandarin, "Let me talk, but my National Language is not as good as his." >> Full Story <<
-- Romance of the Book and Sword series -- Zhao Wen Zhuo read lots of wuxia novels when he was schooling. He feels that Jin Yong novels are more technical, have a strong storyline, is well segmented and is easy to adapt into a drama serial. Zhao Wen Zhuo does not like the character, Chen Jia Luo, in Romance of the Book and Sword, for he is wishy washy. However, he is acting as the same character in the series for he thinks that the script for the adaptation is very well-written, the drama is very intense. Chen Jia Luo of the 40 part series is more rounded, less indecisive, compassionate, is a swordsman whose word is his bond. Chen Jia Luo's views on life and love are heavily modified, such as his political struggles with his brother, Emperor Qianlong and their relations, his love entanglement with Huo Qing-Tong and Princess Fragrance. Chen Jia Luo is very smart and able to foresee other people's thinking. Despite technological advancement, Zhao Wen Zhuo feels that Chinese movies can't compete with Hollywood in terms of special effects and that the viewers' imaginations far surpass what the special effects per se can achieve. Special effects and actions are two different matters. Many scenes, actions still need the presence of live actors and actresses. Zhao Wen Zhuo's weapons in the series are a fan and a sword. As Chen Jia Luo doesn't wish to hurt anyone in the fights, his movements need to be particularly gentle and this is something special effects cannot do.
Meri Paper, Shiyu
-- Wenlian Studio and Jin Yong novels -- Besides Return of Condor Heroes and Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils, Wenlian Studio has also acquired the rights to Jin Yong's Flying Fox of Snowy Mountain and Legend of Flying Fox. The Flying Fox contract lasts for four years, which means that they have plenty of time to come up with a good script before producing the series. Meanwhile, Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils, which is about the three blood brothers, Qiao Feng, Xu Zhu and Duan Yu, is scheduled to begin production this September and ends in next January. The adaptation, which is told in three parts, seems to focus more on the Northen Beggar, Qiao Feng rather than the Dali Prince, Duan Yu. Hu Jun (of the Golden Horse award winning movie, Lan Yu) may be acting as Qiao Feng while Lu Yi as Duan Yu. While Vicky Zhao Wei is not interested in doing TV series anymore, Producer Zhang Ji-Zhong still hopes to talk her round to act as the two separated sisters, Ah Zhu and Ah Zi.
-- Hero: Everyone
Working their Fingers to the Bone for Zhang Yimou -- Huaxi City Paper, 7 April, Xiao Wu
-- The Four Great Young Constables -- The cast for, The Four Great Young Constables drama serial (shao-4 nian-2 si-4 da-4 ming-2 pu-3), an adaptation of Wen Rui-An's novel, has been decided: Life Chaser - He Run-Dong, Cold Blood - Huang Shao-Qi, Without Compassion - Nie Yuan (The actor who is to appear in Tsui Hark's Romance of the Book and Sword as Emperor Qianlong), Iron Hand - Wu Jing. Production of The Four Great Young Constables series, produced by Hai-Run Films & Drama, is to begin in June. (On the other hand, filming of Drunken Monkey production may take an extra month or two and go well beyond June for everyone is very serious about this first Shaw Brothers movie since it is restructured.) Producer Luo Xiong says that Wen Rui An's works are selling very well in Mainland and that besides The Four Great Young Constables, he has also bought the rights to Who is Hero. The Four Great Young Constables is about four youths of humble origin. Being righteous and well-versed in martial arts, they help rid the capital of the powerful villain (played by Xu Jin-Jiang) and are thus being bestowed the title, The Four Great Constables, by the Imperial Court. Chen Hao, Sun Li and two other yet be decided actresses will be the female leads.
-- Drunken Hero -- In Drunken Hero (da-4 zui-4 xia-3), Mi Wen-Tian (Zhao Wen Zhuo) and Chu Qing-Yang (Max Mox) are Emperor Minghui sons but were separated when young due to the Emperor's uncle attempt to usurp the throne. Mi Wen-Tian was rescued by an imperial guard and brought up in the mountains, while Chu Qing-Yang landed in their enemy, Eunuch Chu's hands and was raised by him in the East Wing. Emperor Minghui made Mi Wen-Tian and Chu Qing-Yang swallow the Water Dragon Pearl and Fire Dragon Pearl respectively when young. Mi Wen-Tian grows up to be one who values loyalty to friends while Max Mok is power hungry. They meet twenty years later and, due to their blood relations as well as the effects of Water Dragon Pearl and Fire Dragon Pearl, they are drawn by and admire each other greatly and swear brotherhood to each other. Later, Chu Qing-Yang is betrothed to Bai Yu-Tong (Kristy Yeung), but she, being appalled by the the evil-doings of the East Wing, disguises herself as a chivalrous bandit, Golden Swallow, and goes around doing good deeds, setting herself against the East Wing. When Bai Yu-Tong meets Mi Wen-Tian, the Drunken Hero, she becomes enamoured with him. Chu Qing-Yang later replaces Eunuch Chu as the Head of East Wing. When he learns that Mi Wen-Tian is Emperor Minghui's son and Bai Yu-Tong's love for him, he disregards their blood ties and resorts to all kind of schemes deceiving his brother and also covets the Water Dragon Pearl in Mi Wen-Tian's stomach, hoping to master the ultimate kungfu and gain immortality by combining the two pearls. Available at Dianshiju (Chinese). Picture.
-- The Tuxedo -- Jackie Chan and Jennifer Love Hewitt star in this movie about whosoever puts on The Tuxedo will be granted superhuman ability. Trailer.
-- What the Future Holds for Kungfu Movie Industry -- In the diverse movie industry, Chinese kungfu movies hold the audience spellbound and bowl them over with their deep cultural influences, dangerous, exhilarating scenes, adept, extraordinary martial arts. Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Jet Li, with their exceptional martial arts skills, their tough bodies, with little or no reliance on stunt doubles, real fights in the shows, managed to break successfully into Hollywood. John Woo and Lee Ang adroitly blend Chinese kungfu with Western art of filmmaking and conquer the world's movie-goers. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, having won four Oscar awards, is the envious of its Chinese counterparts. However, driven by profits and competition, kungfu movies (including drama serials) are massed produced, with disastrous over-saturation in the industry. >> Full Story <<
--The Empire is of More Importance Script Highlights -- Part (iv) Double Identity, Double Agenda - Crown Prince Hongli, having discovered that he may not be Yongzhen's son, takes the opportunity during his undercover inspection tour to visit his possible natural father, Chen Yuanlong, in hopes of finding out the truth Part (v) The Older the Ginger, the Spicier it Becomes - However, Chen Yuanlong, the wily old fox, wittily evades his questions and shows him the door. Just when Hongli is about to leave, Lady Chen rushes to see him. She uncontrollably hugs him, alarming Chen Yuanlong, fearing that she might gives away the secret.
-- Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabre -- TCS is teaming up with Taiwan and China companies to bring Jin Yong's Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabre onto the small screen. Su You-Peng is playing Zhang Wu-Ji while Phyllis Quek and Chen Xiuli may be possibly playing the lead female roles. With production fee of 650 thousand Renminbis per episode, S$5.77 million will be spent in this forty part series, which seeks to produce a Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabre serial with brand new feeling feeling. (In other words, does it mean that TCS is desecrating Jin Yong's work yet again?)
March 2002
--Drunken Monkey -- On Drunken Monkey set, Wu Jing is, without doubt, an ebullient character and mingles easily with fellow students, joking with them, a sign that he is well at ease. In this Liu Clan production, Liu Chia Liang, Liu Chia Hui, Liu Chia Yung and Liu Yong Jian all belong to the Liu family while Wu Jing, though an "outsider", is still very much doted upon by Master Liu. Liu Chia Liang doesn't not speak very fluent Mandarin and every word he says needs "translation" from disciple Wu Jing. When Wu Jing was not attentive and chatting with the lead actress, Yao Yao, Liu Chia Liang would "beat" him up, telling him to pay attention. The master and disciple would frequently create a scene, making the atmosphere very interesting. People who practises martial arts are bound by many rules and under the direction of Master Liu, everyone doesn't not drink and smoke very little. It's easy to see their concerted effort and determination to produce a great movie in this wholesome environment. Shanghai Drama
-- Zhang Yimou Talks about Hero --
-- Drunken Monkey Video Clips -- NetandTV Videos (In Chinese): Camera Rolling Ceremony/Press Conference (with some martial arts displays from the crew) | Interview with Liu Chia Liang (with flashbacks from Jackie Chan's Drunken Master 2)
-- Zhao Wen Zhuo's Martial Skills Not Put to Use in Wind and Cloud -- Zhao Wen Zhuo may be well-versed in martial arts, but when filming Wind and Cloud (Storm Riders TV series), he barely got to use his skills, for this drama serial employs tons of CGIs and all the actors and actresses in the project became highly skilled pugilists overnight. On the other hand, all of them need not use too much strength to fight, for the computers would be used to enhance the scenes with special effects. When interviewed, Zhao Wen Zhuo said, "This is the least strenuous show I have ever done, for, with the aid of the computers, all I need is striking a few poses and the computers would handle the rest."
Zhao Wen Zhuo acted as Wind in Wind and Cloud: Conquer the World, the role played by Ekin Cheng in the Storm Riders movie. When asked about how he felt about the movie, he laughed, "I only saw half of the movie, so it's hard to say if there is any differences between me and Ekin Cheng. My role is more human, so I did it along this path."
The series is about two young men, one's fate is related to Wind, while the other Cloud, who join Tianxia Society, and become Conqueror's disciples. Conqueror, whose mind is set on taking over the world, shares a complicated relations of teachers, friends and enemies with Wind and Cloud. The conflicts between Wind and Cloud lead to many struggles and injuries. Can Conqueror changes his destiny? Can Wind and Cloud forestall Conqueror? Everything happens in the twinkling of an eye...
Zhao Wen Zhuo is currently in production of Romance of the Book and Sword TV series (Photos: 1 | 2 - from United News Daily ) in Hengdian. Wind and Cloud would be aired in Channel U from 18 March onwards, Monday to Wednesday, 10.30 pm. Lianhe Wanbo 15 Mar 2002
-- Mendam Berahi -- The
Malaysian action film Mendam Berahi is said to take after Charlie's Angels. But
its three models-turned-actresses, Shaleen Cheah, 24; Rita Rudaini Mokhtar, 26;
and Indonesian Tracy Trinita, 22 say they are more than just eye candy.
>> Full Story <<
-- Southern Shaolin -- 14 March 2002, FM365
-- Drunken Monkey: A
Kungfu Movie or Love Story? -- -- Drunken Monkey -- Drunken Monkey will not be relying on CGIs. It will showcase authentic kungfu and full-contact sparrings. Besides Wu Jing, it will also be featuring Liu Chia Liang's (Lau Kar Leung) brothers, Liu Chia Yung (Lau Kar Wing) and Gordon Liu Chia Hui (Lau Kar Fei), senior martial arts stars - Qi Guan-Jun and Zhang Zhen-Huan - and National Wushu Champion Li Hai-Tao. Its overseas distribution rights had already been sold even before the movie began production.
So how's Wu Jing's ability in doing the Drunken Style? Below is a quote from Raffi's Wushu Page:
-- Fist of Fury remake -- In a gathering by Eastern Entertainment Co, Raymond Wong Pak Ming said that they will be doing remakes of Buddhist Palm and Fist of Fury. Ching Siu Tung shall direct both movies. Nicholas Tse and Joey Yung Tso-Yi will star in Fist of Fury while Wong Kar Ming in Buddhist Palm.
-- Happy, Suffering Kid -- Wu Jing's wonderful, ever bewitching smile indubitably leaves the deepest impression in people's hearts. Although he has not been in the showbiz for a very long time, his smile seems set forever in his face. No matter what shows or roles, Wu Jing's smile never changes and the charm of his smile never wanes.Wu Jing seems to have grown up in a honey jar. However, we know that those who enjoy being in the company with many people, are nearly always very lonely in the heart. They like rowdiness for they fear loneliness. In that case, are those who are always grinning filled with sorrows? They are always smiling for they covet happiness, to bid goodbye to hardships? Is Wu Jing a happy kid or one who was brought up leading a dog's life? >>Full Story<<
-- Voting for Protagonists of Ping Zong Xia Ying Lu -- When the poll ended, Huang Haibing and Vicky Zhao Wei received the most number of votes. The production is visiting the top five male -Huang Hai Bing, Wu Jing, Ren Quan, Zhou Jie, Huang Lei- and female stars -Vicky Zhao Wei, Huang Yi, Han Xue, Tao Hong, Ruby Lin Xin Ru- this month in the order of the number of votes they received. Producer Fan Xiao Tian said that whether the actors or actresses agree to join the production, they will still talk to them, though Vicky Zhao is unlikely to be doing the series for she prefers being in movies nowadays.
--Being Weary of Period Dramas, Wu Jing Wishes to
Change his Image with Drunken Monkey-- FM365, 9 March 2002, Information Courtesy of Chuchu
-- Jet Li and Wu Jing -- Jet Li and Jackie Chan have been compared countless times by the people. So this time round, we brought out Wu Jing, who became famous due to Master of Taichi. Presently, Jet Li's fellow junior student can be considered as the new martial arts star with the strongest presence in the entertainment industry. When asked to compare himself with his junior, Jet Li let out a laugh, giving his usual characterless remark, said that he is in no position to judge anyone. He is an actor, so is Wu Jing; The audiences are forever the only ones who could assess the actors and actresses. This may be an evasion to discussion but what he said reminded us of a saying, "God is the customer." As such, Jet Li can consider Kungfu Emperor as a term of endearment, and tell people to watch the movies in the cinemas, whether if they are his movies or not. So long as the audience supports our movies, the Chinese movies would have a bright future ahead.
China Silver Screen, 2002, Issue 3
-- Shaw Brothers Film Company
Re-emerges, with Wu Jing Set to Star in Drunken Monkey --
--Shaw Brothers teaming up with Zhejiang Film
Workshop to produce Drunken Monkey--
Qianjiang Evening News, 7 March 2002, Reporter Chai Hong Bing
--Action Director Ching Siu Tung: Hero
Won't be Less Meritorious than Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon--
--Kungfu Youngster Makes a Leap Towards the Silver Screen, Invited by Shaw Brothers to join Drunken Monkey -- Shooting of Drunken Monkey movie will begin soon. Drunken Monkey is produced by Hong Kong's Shaw Brothers Film Studio with a production budget of over HK$10 Million (US$1.3 Million). Wu Jing, the lead star of Drunken Monkey, will be reporting in Shanghai on 8 March. Drunken Monkey will be in production for two and a half months. In the phone interviewed, when Wu Jing talked about having a great time in his house during the spring festivity (Lunar New Year), and that his face had become rounder, he complained, "Everyone was joking that I was getting plumber. How could it be? My weight is under 70 kg, and the people in the gym found me to be under-weight." Still, Wu Jing would routinely go to the gym, tone his body for two hours, and practise martial arts daily.
Wu Jing had always been cast in period dramas with either a bald head or wearing a wig. Drunken Monkey is the first time he gets to appear in a modern look. Drunken Monkey is about a "man" of the 1920s who roams about the pugilistic world. Wu Jing is particularly excited about his role in Drunken Monkey and greatly wishes that his appearance would look more macho. In the recent days, he has been struggling to let his hair grow longer, and he is not even shaving his chin, hoping to grow a beard to let the audience feel something different.
However, Wu Jing, who looks like a kid, is in no way childish. Instead, he is loyal to friends, very kind and understanding towards his parents and the weak. Majority of the productions who had worked with Wu Jing knows him as a one-phrase character. Should they complained about limited production budget and asked if it's possible for the lead actor to lower his fee. Wu Jing, without any hesitation, would nod his head. Sometimes, when his production wages have been delayed once and again, Wu Jing is loathe to chase after them for the payments. While his income is not high, Wu Jing still bought a three-room, two-hall house in the city area of Beijing's for his parents as that place's travelling around there is more convenient and shopping centres there are within a stone's throw. Beside giving a some of money to his parents for each of his productions, Wu Jing is also adopting two poor kids without letting them know of his identity, secretly taking care of their well-being.
United Daily, 4 March 2002, Reporter Liu Zi Feng
-- Virtual Twilight aka So Close -- Official English Site | Trailers
February 2002
-- Matrix Reloaded Official Site -- Official Site to Matrix sequels has been launched. Contains news, information, set reports, interviews, background on the cast and crew. Presently, it seems that no trailers (except for the original Matrix) are available yet. Click on the keyboard and enter the code "reload" to enter the site.
-- Vengeance Ending Ravine -- Vengeance Ending Ravine - Duan Chou Gu - is helmed by famous Hong Kong martial arts director, Yuen Bun, and the cast includes such top Hong Kong action stars as Sammo Hung and Guan Li Jie. Derived from Peace Hotel movie, which was directed by Yuen Bun and starring Chow Yun Fatt, the 30 part series, Vengeance Ending Ravine, shares similar plot and names to the classic movie. The ideal Vengeance Ending Ravine, as came up by Yuen Bun, is a place where once anyone, be they a heinous murderer, a heartless husband, or a compulsive gambler who is heavily in bad debts, enters it, all their previous feuds are automatically ended. Besides, there is a Peace Town outside Vengeance Ending Ravine. The story of love and hatred is set in the valley and the town.
Back
then, under the coaching of Yuen Bun, Chow Yun Fatt gained some skills in doing
actions However, until Chow Yun Fatt and Lee Ang received a few little golden
people at the Oscar Awards, Chow Yun Fatt and his master, Yuen Bun, never had
the chance to collaborate again. Yuen Bun, who couldn't afford to wait any
longer, presented his script of the Peace Hotel drama serial to Liao Ning
Chinese Art Film Studio's chief, Zhang Ying, last year and brought together with
him Sammo Hung. While Chow Yun Fat was too busy to attend to Yuen Bun, Sammo
Hung was particularly gracious to his younger blood brother. Years ago, Yuen
Bun, Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, etc sworn brotherhood to each other and each had
their own glamour. However, Sammo Hung was leading a slow lane, reclusive life
for the past two years. On account of their brotherhood, Sammo Hung immediately
agreed to join Vengeance Ending Ravine production without asking about the
price, the importance of the role. And he became the Chieftain of Vengeance
Ending Valley, Wan Buo-Long. To be aired in Mainland in April. Shidai Shang Newspaper
--
Big, Big Brother Sammo Hung --
-- Web Presence of Mainland Actors: Zhao Wen Zhuo, Wu Jing, Chen Dao Ming and Jet Li -- Zhao Wen Zhuo is second to none as far as popularity on the web pages is concerned. Through Yahoo, Kimo and Open Find search engines, be it personal webpages or discussion board indicators, Zhao Wen Zhuo is number one. >> Full Story <<
-- Jackie
Chan to Establish a Modern Shaolin Temple --
Xin Quai Newspaper
Note: When a reporter of Beijing Entertainment News contacted Jackie Chan Film Co subsequently, the spokesperson refuted the claim, saying that they would have learned of such a major matter if it was true and explained that Jackie Chan's schedule is packed up till 2004 and wouldn't have time to set up a training centre.
-- Shaolin King of Martial Arts -- Northern Shaolin Temple. Warrior monks in white robe are training under the guidance of the most senior brother, keeping in mind the abbot's words: You must remember, there are no limits to learning. The highest stage in martial arts learning is to harmonize kungfu completely with Zen. You must be flexible. A martial artist who is not capable of assimilating the nature's virtues would not be able to deeply understand the essence of Buddhism and martial arts. >> More | Trailers | Wu Jing's Behind the Scenes Talk <<
-- Chinese Odyssey 2002 -- Tony Leung teams up with singer Faye Wong for another outing that has Chang Chen and Vicki Zhao Wei as co-stars. >> More | NetandTV's Video Interview <<
-- The Matrix Cast Reloads -- The Matrix Reloaded is taking over the "land down under" and Access Hollywood visited the three stars on the Australian set where they revealed that making the film is painful business! They also discussed how the first film, released in 1999, has set the bar higher for the sequels they are shooting now. Laurence Fishburne, reprising his role as Morpheus, says: "Actually I am quite confident in saying that the sequels to The Matrix will be better than the first one." The precision-choreographed fights that won Oscars® and set a new standard in filmmaking are back, but this time the goal for Reloaded is to make them even more elaborate than before. >> More <<
Trailers : Keanu's Behind the Scenes Video Clip, Alternate Version
-- Wu Jing's Next Project: Drunken Monkey -- Wu Jing is currently in preparation for his next project, Drunken Monkey, a collaboration between China and Hong Kong's Shaw Brothers Organisation, which will begin production soon, after the Lunar New Year. This project is a movie geared towards the American audience. Of late, several actors and actresses are complaining about not getting their payments after having finished shooting. Recently, Carman Lee brought a lawsuit against Lady Warriors of Yang Family's producer, Li Guo-Li, over such matter. Wu Jing is also facing the same problem, not having received his due payment for quite a few of his projects. On the other hand, he refused to point out the names, "Actually, my pay is very low. Yet, my pay has been delayed time and again, due to various reasons. So I often console myself with participation and involvement of the productions is more important than the outcome."
-- Romance of The Book and Sword TV Series -- Romance of The Book and Sword TV Series shall begin production in Hengdian of Zhejiang Province in 22 Feb. It's jointly produced by Hong Kong's Tang Ren Films Studio, China, and Singapore's MediaWorks with a budget of HK$ 100 million. Tang Ren Films Studio is the company behind such popular drama serials as Carman Lee's Lady Warriors of Yang Family. As opposed to Lady Warriors of Yang Family, this is an "All Manly Heroes" story. Zhao Wen Zhuo is playing the role of Red Flower Society's chief, Chen Jia Luo. Other stars include Esther Kwan, Andrew Lin (Lian Kai), Guo Jin An, Zheng Pei Pei.
-- Voting for Protagonists of Ping Zong Xia Ying Lu -- Sina is conducting an on-line poll (In Chinese) from 21 Jan to 22 Feb 2002 to decide the male and female protagonists for Ping Zong Xia Ying Lu, a series based on Liang Yu Sheng's wuxia novel. Membership registration is required in order to vote.
--The Empire is of More Importance Script Highlights -- Based on the mysteries of the Qing Dynasty concerning Emperor Yongzheng's death and the Han identity of Emperor Qianlong and blending it with real historical events, The Empire is of More Importance comes with a gripping storyline where Wu Jing plays two roles with diverse personality - Qianlong and his commoner brother, Chen Bang Guo. Below are some interesting parts from the series: Part (ii) Naming The (Real) Heir Part (iii) Preparing for Inspection Tour
-- Real Skills, Real Kungfu, Mainland Actors, An Arm and a Leg -- In the recent years, the TV stations
have been actively bringing in Mainland productions and some producers are also
pre-disposed to casting Mainland stars. The audience may think that since the
price of goods in China are very low, it also doesn't cost much to hire Mainland
stars. In reality, the real popular artistes such as Zhao Wen Zhuo, Wu Jing,
Zhou Jie, Huang Lei, Lu Yi, Li Ya-Peng and Chen Kun all command pretty hefty
price tags. That they are highly regarded, is mainly due to their unique skills.
Moreover, they are willing to spend much effort on their acting skills,
making the producers feel the worth. >>
Full Story <<
-- High hopes of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon Prequel to Begin Production in
May 2003 --
The prequel talks about Li Mu Bai
and Yu Xiu Lian in their salad days and is based on second volume of Wang Dulu's
Crane-Iron Pentalogy. Tentatively known as Precious Sword, Golden Hairpin,
the prequel begins with a Seeking Marriage through Martial Arts Contest, where Yu Xiu Lian
and Li Mu Bai become acquainted with and fall for each other. At the same time,
Li Bu Mai also becomes good friends with Yu Xiu Lian's fiancé, Meng Si Zhao.
However, the latter keeps from Li Mu Bai about his betrothal to Yu Xiu Lian.
Once, during a battle, Meng Si Zhao looses his life in order to save Li Mu Bai.
At that moment, Mu Bai discovers that Meng Si Zhao is Yu Xiu Lian's fiancé. As
one who honours friendship and loyalty, Li Mu Bai painfully forsakes Yu Xiu Lian. On the
other hand, he is unable to fall for other girls. This tragedy leads to the
suicide of the courtesan, Xie Cui Qian, who has been carrying a torch for Li Mu
Bai, while Yu Xiu Lian is contrite over the matter for life. Netease, 4 Feb 2002
-- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon Prequel -- On 18 Jan, Wu Jing met with Producer Xu Li Gong (Hsu Li Kong) and Ye Ru Feng, who was impressed by his wittiness, humour and vivacity. Xu Li Gong said that Wu Jing fits the role of Luo Xiao Hu aptly and that his horse-riding skill and agility make him a perfect choice. He especially admires Wu Jing for having solid martial arts background. However, the script is not yet completed, so his role in the CTHD prequel is not yet confirmed. Meanwhile, Wu Jian Meng, a member of F4(???), has also expressed his interest in getting the same role too. When Wu Jing visited Yuen Wo Ping during production of CTHD, he helped hoisting the wires for Chow Yun Fatt. He particularly liked the scene where the people fly about and run on the walls.
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