Source: Xinhua

11-04-2008 14:46

Special Report:   Mei Lanfang

Director Chen Kaige's much-anticipated blockbuster 'Mei Lanfang' finished post-production in Tokyo on Monday. Scenes involving controversial actress Gillian Chung were removed. The actress withdrew from the project at short notice following her involvement in an explicit photo scandal earlier this year.

Hong Kong actress and singer Gillian Chung who originally played Mei Lanfang's young wife, Fu Zhifang. [Photo: ent.sina.com.cn]

Sina.com quoted the film's producer China Film Group as saying on Monday that Hong Kong actress and singer Gillian Chung's performance as Mei Lanfang's wife, Fu Zhifang, were cut. Director Chen expressed his regret over the decision and said he appreciated the effort Chung had put during filming.

The star-studded film featuring Chinese mainland actress Zhang Ziyi and Hong Kong singer-actor Leon Lai has been under the spotlight since shooting started. There was public speculation whether Chung's scenes would be withdrawn after the naked photo scandal came to light.

The task of eliminating Chung's scenes from the production was said to be incredibly difficult. The director is reported to have used computer techniques during the scenes of Mei Lanfang's wife, Fu Zhifang, played by mainland actress Chen Hong, to capture her development over time.

The article adds that director Chen said Chung had presented her acting talent and professional ethic during filming. He hoped people would focus on the film itself and show understanding for the actress.