Leon Lai and Zhang Ziyi

Chen bears some link to the late Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang, "Farewell My Concubine" was the name of one of Mei's Peking Opera hits. The operatic piece was created by Mei and his collaborator Yang Xiaolou in 1921. Mei played the Concubine, while Yang played the warrior Xiang Yu. It was a smash stage hit at the time. Chen's story is about two actors of the Peking Opera. It proved a heart rending story about a performer unable to distinguish between his real life and his role at the opera.

Directing an epic like Mei Lanfang, is a challenge for Chen. But it's also a tribute to a master, who gave him much inspiration. The story of "Mei Lanfang" tells of the formation of the Mei school of art. It reveals how Mei became a legend, whose patrotic efforts inspired others. Audiences will learn of his love connection with peking opera performer Meng Xiaodong. There are similarities between Farewell My Concubine and Mei Lanfang. Both recount the fate of individuals swept up in the tide of major historical events and of their unconventional love affairs. Hong Kong actor Leon Lai plays Mei Lanfang while Zhang Ziyi plays Meng Xiaodong. The production team from Farewell My Concubine was reassembled for the latest film. Post production on the film is being done in Japan.

Everyone has a question if the epic "Mei Lanfang" will continue the aura of "Farewell My Concubine", let's expect its release together.

(CCTV November 18, 2008)