Malaysia has been the filming location for many international projects, including the Hollywood film “Worth The Wait”. Now, reports are saying that another blockbuster movie will be filmed in Malaysia, starring Chinese stars Liu Yifei (刘亦菲) and Xiao Zhan (肖战).
Earlier this week, Chinese social media was buzzing with rumours that the two stars will be part of an upcoming blockbuster produced by Hong Kong director Tsui Hark (徐克). According to reports, the international production, tentatively named “Shih, Queen Of The Sea”, is an epic about the female Chinese pirate Shih Yang. The project has a reported budget of 500 million RMB (approximately RM294 million), sparking a lot of interest from the public.
New Zealand director Anthony McCarten will helm the director’s chair, on top of taking charge of the script. Besides Liu Yifei and Xiao Zhan, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh (楊紫瓊) and Taiwanese actress Shu Qi (舒淇) are also reportedly in talks to join the project, adding to the already star-studded cast. The movie will allegedly be filmed in various locations, including China and Malaysia. Filming is scheduled to start in early September.
According to reports, “Shih, Queen Of The Sea” will be based on real historical events and explore Chinese pirate culture. Liu Yifei is expected to play Shih Yang, while Xiao Zhan will likely play her husband. Noting Anthony McCarten’s many successful biopics, like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “The Darkest Hour”, film buffs are looking forward to this new project and what the film has to offer.
However, at present, nothing has been set in place and neither Liu Yifei nor Xiao Zhan’s have confirmed the rumours. News outlets reported that the signing for the film will take place until 25th August (Monday), so any official announcement will likely happen after this date. Nevertheless, netizens are already looking forward to the film and Liu Yifei and Xiao Zhan’s on-screen chemistry.
We in Malaysia are also looking forward to welcoming the star-studded cast to film on our shores. What are your thoughts about this?
Sources: United Daily, Xuan, Deadline
