China Showbiz 2013/02/23

• Chinese film director criticises Hollywood for turning a blind eye to censorship - ITV News

  
  

   Big-budget US movies are taking the bulk of the box office takings in China Photo: ITV News

  On the eve of the Oscars, an award-winning Chinese director has criticised Hollywood's 'collaboration' with China's film censors.
  Zhang Yuan, who has been making critically acclaimed films for more than 20 years, accuses US studios of being too willing to accept a system that restricts Chinese filmmakers.
  For a slice of lucrative box office takings, US studios are agreeing to change plots and scripts.
  Skyfall, the latest Bond movie, was censored before it could be seen by a Chinese audience.References to prostitution and gangsters were changed. The plot was altered, removing lines about the villain being held in Chinese custody.
  For leading director Zhang Yuan, Hollywood's cooperation with the censors undermines the fight for freedom of expression by China's filmmakers.
  He told me: "After so many years of reform, China is still among a small number of countries, including North Korea and Iran, which has a censorship system."
  Zhang Yuan's groundbreaking work has led to him being blacklisted in the past. He criticises Hollywood's willingness to accept censorship.
  "Hollywood gets away with just making a few cuts, it's a lot more strict for Chinese films ... Hollywood directors should stand up and appeal against censorship."
   The latest Bond movie Skyfall was censored for Chinese cinemas Credit: MGMAround 10 new cinemas are opening every day in China; a growing middle class is looking for ways to spend time and money. Ticket sales are up a third; the box office is now worth a blockbusting £1.9 billion.
  Although there's a quota imposed on foreign films, 30 have been allowed in this year as long as some are 3D or IMax. The all-action, big-budget US movies are taking the bulk of the box office takings.
  Chinese movies are struggling to get mass audiences. American action movies, with big explosions and gun fights, don't tend to deal with the gritty issues facing Chinese society and are passed more easily.
  The problem is partly the lack of a classification system, without 18 or 15 certificates. This means all films have to be cut until they are family friendly.
   Zhang Yuan's award-winning films have sometimes seen him blacklisted Credit: ITV NewsThe new film Cloud Atlas had around 40 minutes cut out - mainly sex scenes - before it could be shown in China.
  Most Chinese directors stick to patriotic war films, which are easier to get past the censors. Films that might raise questions about the government or scripts based on modern politics face a bureaucratic brick wall.
  Zhang Yuan's latest film Beijing Flickers follows the lives of a young group of friends as they struggle to make their way in modern China. The movie has been with the censors for a year.
  While the number of Hollywood movies allowed to be shown is increasing, the pioneering director sees no end to censorship.
  
  
• Movie-themed Fortunes 'Never Guaranteed' 
  While Stephen Chow's Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons, is probably on the way to creating another box office record in the history of Chinese cinema, his hopes for Journey to the West aren't confined to the silver screen.
  ChinaVision Media Group Ltd, one of the blockbuster's investors, announced on Tuesday that its wholly owned subsidiary West Gold has entered into an agreement with the city government of Tongxiang in Zhejiang province to cooperate on the establishment of a Journey to the West Film Art Center project.
  The government of Tongxiang will make available approximately 70 hectares in Wuzhen for the project. The planned area consists of a parcel of land with an area of 46 hectares, which is for sale, and another parcel of 24 hectares, which is for lease, according to the agreement.
  If West Gold completes the acquisition of the land use rights and leasehold interest, it will develop the area by establishing a joint venture, in which it will hold 75 percent of equity interest, while Stephen Chow holds the remaining 25 percent, according to the Film Art Center Framework Agreement, which was signed in October 2012.
  It is expected that the cooperative agreement will be signed within the next few days. As planned, the movie-themed project will feature cultural tourism, entertainment and technology.
  The project is scheduled to be launched at the end of this year, and is due to be completed in 2015.
  However, actor-director Chow is not the first to have plans to develop movie-themed parks on the Chinese mainland. Huayi Brothers Media Group Co Ltd, one of the leading private film production companies in China, expanded into the field in 2011.
  The listed film company signed an agreement in February with the Shanghai Jiading Industrial Zone to build a cultural complex in the area. The project will be primarily used as a film production base, such as Zhejiang Hengdian World Studios.
  In May 2011, Huayi Brothers also announced its cooperation with other partners on its first movie-themed park in Suzhou Industrial Park, a project with a total investment of 3 billion yuan ($481 million).
  The latest move by the entertainment conglomerate came in May 2012, when it announced its co-investment in a movie-themed commercial zone in Haikou, Hainan province. In this commercial zone, there will be streets and blocks that imitate the cinematic scenes of Huayi Brothers' film productions.
  However, although the number of theme parks may have grown in China in recent years, few of them are making money.
  Zhao Huanyan, a senior researcher at the Tourism Research Institute under the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, said that a total of 150 billion yuan has been invested in more than 2,500 theme parks in China, and 70 percent of them are in deficit, 20 percent are breaking even, and only the remaining 10 percent are making profits.
  Creativity and market positioning are the most important elements in successfully running a theme park, and for movie-themed parks, professional support facilities, diverse scenes and competitive pricing are also crucial, added Yang Yanfeng, an associate professor of the China Tourism Academy.
  "Blind investment is the biggest reason for the widespread losses. The first investment boom in theme parks took place in the 1990s, while the third boom is currently under way," Yang said.
  

  'Hobbit: An unexpected Journey' premieres in Beijing

  

  Actress Jin Ming attends the premiere of "Hobbit: An unexpected Journey" in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 21, 2013. The film is to be on show on Friday. [Photo: news.cn]
  
  
  

  Yu Zheng’s “Swordman” Finale Accused of Copying “Painted Skin 2″

  Swordman <笑傲江湖>, Yu Zheng’s (于正) 40-episode adaptation of the Jin Yong (金庸) wuxia novel The Smiling, Proud Wanderer, will air is finale episode next week on Hunan TV. The serial has been receiving mixed critical reception from the audience, with both praises and criticisms. Fans of the original novel bashed the serial for its nonsensical story line and unfaithful adaptation. Other fans lauded the serial for its addictive storytelling fashion, also gushing at the Linghu Chong (Wallace Huo 霍建華) and Dongfang Bubai (Joe Chen 陳喬恩) pairing.
  Yesterday, Chinese media sources spoiled that the ending of Swordman will dramatically differ from the novel’s ending. Dongfang, who initially plots to kill Linghu’s lover, Ren Yingying, in order to keep Linghu to herself, ultimately decides to save Ren’s life by giving her heart. This finale strongly resembles the ending to Wuershan’s (乌尔善) Painted Skin: The Resurrection <画皮II>, in which the demon Xiaowei sacrifices herself to return the heart of Princess Jing, out of love for the protector, Huo Xin.
  Yu Zheng denied the plagiarism allegations, claiming that Swordman had already ended production when Painted Skin: The Resurrection first opened in cinemas. Dongfang’s heart sacrifice arc was instead inspired by an Iranian novel Yu Zheng read a few years back.
  In a press interview with actress Joe Chen, she expressed that she was expecting her character to generate mixed reception when she first took on the role. “I need a strong heart in order to face the viewers’ criticisms,” Joe joked. “I really like Dongfang’s character. I portrayed Dongfang Bubai in the way I perceived the role, and I want to thank those who support my portrayal of him.”
  Yu Zheng’s decision to cast an actress to portray Dongfang Bubai was most likely inspired by the 1992 Hong Kong film, Swordsman II <笑傲江湖之東方不敗>, in which Dongfang was famously and classically portrayed by Taiwanese actress, Brigitte Lin (林青霞).
  Open Ending
  Many romantic elements were added in Yu Zheng’s Swordman. Among the most heatedly discussed topic was the triangle relationship involving Linghu, Dongfang and Ren Yingying (Yuan Shanshan 袁姗姗). As Dongfang’s presence dramatically outnumbered Ren’s screentime, many more fans of the drama were beginning to support Linghu to choose Dongfang as his lover instead of Ren.
  When fans asked if Yu Zheng would change the ending so Linghu would end up together with Dongfang, Yu Zheng said that Dongfang and Linghu were already “endgame” to begin with. The producer explained that the ambiguity of the ending will be able to satisfy the fans of both “Chongdong” and “Chongying.”
  Source: 21CN.com

  
  
  
  

  DB3Xchange Assists Chinese Actress Zhang Meng with 2013 Spirit Awards Appearance

  
  

  New Partnership Between DB3 Agency and Mega World Media Manages International Media, Film and Entertainment Projects
  
  Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) February 22, 2013
  
  Mega World Media and DB3 Agency have joined forces to form DB3XCHANGE, a joint venture that will develop an exciting new platform that connects brands, adopters, and emerging markets with multifaceted media, film and entertainment platforms. On February 23, 2013, DB3Xchange will coordinate and produce an interview lounge “press junket” and coordinate Chinese actress Zhang Meng’s appearance at the Spirit Awards in Los Angeles.DB3Xchange will work with actors and actresses such as Meng, but also with media and associate partners, for production and integration seeding of global showcases and entertainment ventures. Film and platform opportunities will include equity, licensing, distribution, studio and independent film projects.
  Zhang Meng, a supporter of the DB3Xchange, is an emerging Chinese film actress. Meng will be attending the 2013 Spirit Awards with the help of DB3Xchange’s unique services. Thanks to DB3Xchange, Meng will be completing a 'press interview round' while in Los Angeles.
  "These collaborative efforts are important opportunities to promote mutual business growth and a collaborative exchange of craft and talent. China has been a supporter of film production and a strong film funding partner and creator. Last year’s Hollywood box office was the healthiest it has been. I know a vibrant industry and across Pacific extension is important.” says DB3 Agency partner, Mark A. Dayoub.
  The DB3Xchange parameters are to recognize top emerging talent and maximize the profile of existing new extensions from media, branding, marketing, and technology leaders. Collaboration across the board with categories from music, fashion, and film is a final component.
  "This exchange fosters culture and business opportunities across a variety of communication platforms. We already connect on social, mobile, gaming, and share experiences with film and television. This was a natural fit to be involved in fostering growth and exchange of business and culture opportunities, being in a position to help people talent like Ms. Meng to reach their career goals is nothing short of an honor,” explains Travis Cloyd, CEO of Mega World Media.
  DB3Xchange also coordinated media partners and premier locations to have Meng engage her fanbase and North American presence. As Meng builds with the media and public, her management will be free to explore new business collaborations and film co-production opportunities thanks to the work of DB3Xchange.
  About Zhang Meng
  Zhang Meng (a.k.a. Lemon) is an actress from Mainland China and director of Actors Working Committee of the China Television Artist’ Association. Her role as “Biyao”, the female leader of the online game, Jade Dynasty, was her national breakthrough. In 2012, Meng’s career peaked with roles in five Television Programs from network giant Golden Eagle TV: My Sassy Girl, The Battle Wizard, The Magic Blade, In Love with Power, and Sop Queen. Her filmography credits include: Crazy in Love (2007), The Deserted Inn (2008), Virtual Recall (2010), My Own Swordsman (2011), and her latest Tian Long Ba Bu (2013). Meng also is a Recording Artist as she launched her first EP, Meng Knows.
  ###
  For additional information or to book a consultation with DB3Xchange, please contact:
  LuCreative Group PR
  612.217.0812
  info@lucreativegroup.com
  http://www.lucreativegroup.com
  
  

  
  
• Bobby Au Yeung Discharges from Hospital, Emotionally Thank his Wife in Tears
  

  'TVB Lucky Star' Bobby Au-Yeung was having a Lunar New Year celebration with friends - Michael Tao, Michael Tse and Ron Ng - when he suddenly felt unwell and fell unconscious. He was rushed to the ER immediately, but due to the criticial condition, Bobby was sent to ICU for several days. Many good friends including Lawrence Ng, Esther Kwan, Nicholas Tse, Ron Ng, Michael Tao, Florence Kwok and Toby Leung were all very worried about him and visited him during his hospitalization. Luckily Bobby remained strong and got through the crisis.
  Yesterday morning at 11am, Bobby's manager (Lydia) and his wife (Rosanna) appeared at the hospital to take Bobby home. Bobby appeared in bundled up and a beanie on his head, it was clear Bobby lost a lot of weight, but he's still well-spirited. When taking pictures, he put up the 'V' sign with his hand and had a wide smile across his face. During the interview, Bobby frankly expressed his condition has improved 80-90%, "It was all because they rescued me during the critical period. The doctor praised I had good willpower. I fell unconsicious at 3am and didn't wake up until the next afternoon at 2pm. When they hooked me up to the tubes, I felt something, I was aware of what's going on, just I couldn't move." He also joked he's now healthier than before being admitted to the hospital, "Earlier when I was hooked up to the tubes, it was very difficult, I really don't want to try that again." When speaking of Bobby losing a lot of weight, he said: "My wife lost even more, my heart is aching." Bobby frankly expressed he really feels thankful of his wife and signaled his wife to go by his side, the couple engaged in a deep embrace. Rosanna was immediately touched and teared up. Lydia was also emotional as she said to Bobby in tears: "I'm not that much younger than you, don't scare me like that again!" Bobby said: "Actually, my wife was really startled this time. She definitely needs to nurse her health more than I do. I promised her, I will be more cautious on drinking from here! on out. Moderation to everything, I won't go too far in playing and eating. I have many friends and colleagues who care about me." When Bobby made his little speech, he started feeling emotional and teared up along with his wife and manager. Then Bobby gave his wife a kiss on the cheek, thanking her for everything she done during this period. The scene was very touching.
  Bobby disclosed the cause of his mishap, he said he ate too much the previous night, he had sea urchins and fatty beef, then the following day he went out late at night with friends. The food went down the wrong way. When asked if it has anything to do with alcohol? He said: "I did drink, but not that much. (Give up on drinking?) I don't want to make empty promises, drinking isn't poison, I can't just drink tea during social gatherings! Unless I find a new group of friends, but I will drink in moderation in the future."
  As for his work schedule, Bobby expressed he'll be resting for several days before resuming work. Then he'll be heading to Foshan to wrap up th filming of TVB series Love Reverse Three Lifetimes of Fate. There will be many gun battles and chasing scenes, he said: "Because I got some shots earlier, so I cannot stretch my arms too much now, can't hold a gun yet." When asked what's the first thing he wants to do after discharging from the hospital? He said: "I want to go home and see my dogs. My wife said our dogs really miss me and is always going into my room to find me."
  

  

  Esther Kwan: The whole crew will be serving Bobby
  Bobby's partner in Reverse Three Lifetimes, Esther Kwan, was filming the series yesterday, she said: "I know, Bobby discharged from the hospital. He called me to let me know he's doing fine." Esther expressed after she completes the scenes from yesterday, the crew will be taking a break from filming until Bobby returns. On March 5th, the entire crew will resume to wrap up the HK filming and then the Foshan outdoor filming will be postponed to April. She said: "But even when Bobby gets back to work, the schedule cannot be too tight. We have to see if he can physically handle it or not. When the time comes, the whole crew will be serving him, I'll bring my chair for him to sit on. He really injured himself this time, the biggest problem was his lungs and that's okay already, but he had to hook up to those tubes, which damaged his veins. That needs time to recover too." When asked if she'll host a non-drinking party to celebrate with Bobby? She laughed: "We'll see how it goes, he can only drink water."
  Rebecca Zhu plays Bobby's mother in the series, she joked: "He got through the crisis this time, he needs to look after his health. I hope he won't get sick again. When he comes back to work, I will attend to him with tea and water, a mother looking after her son is the right thing to do."

  
• Chinese atheletes for Viva China Sports
  
  The national
  modelingbadminton team

  Viva China Sports, the management of some of China's top sports teams, recently did a new photoshoot for their athletes. Combined with a shoot from 2011, the shoots make-up an unfortunately not-for-sale calendar of some of the sports realms' best-looking athletes.
  

  
  The
  sailor crewdiving team

  
  
  

  
  Gymnast-turned-actress Liu Xuan takes on the royal sport.

  
  Tall and elegant, world number one Wang Yihan heads the national modeling team's fierce females.

  
  Wang Xin contemplating on why she gets such pretty backgrounds, but terrible umpires.

  
  Watching the Meteor Shower together with the "Gymnastics-4″?

  
  If the badminton team were fencing, this team right here would sweep teams!

  
  Chen Yibing with his signature smile, as a racecar driver

  
  Liu Xuan wondering why  equestrian was not cut before wrestling for the Olympics.

  
  Reminding you that in Canada, 5  is now the smallest change available.

  
  

  
  The not-in-elementary-school gymnastics team
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