Source: CCTV.com

12-08-2008 09:33

Special Report:   Mei Lanfang

"Mei Lanfang", "Forever Enthralled" premieres in Beijing. Stars of the new Chinese epic about one of the greatest Peking opera stars of all time turned out for the film's premiere in a Beijing suburb on Tuesday.

Snapshot highlights from the world premiere of Director Chen Kaige's "Mei Lanfang" or Forever Enthralled, in Beijing.  China's A-list walks the carpet including the film's star, Zhang Ziyi.(msn.com)

Zhang Ziyi and Leon Lai star in "Forever Enthralled", the story of the life and career of Peking opera star Mei Lan Fang. For director Chen Kaige, the film is considered something of a comeback.

Chen Kaige, Director of "Forever Enthralled", said, "It's only a film. From my point of view and from the perspective of the production team behind the film, we hope that more viewers can appreciate what we believe is valuable. If the message of the film is communicated to the audience, I will be satisfied. "

Cast member Zhang Ziyi (right) and host Tsai Kang-Yong are seen at the global premiere of "Forever Enthralled" in Beijing on December 2, 2008. [sina.com.cn]

Mei Lan Fang's son Mei Bao Jiu thanked the director for the film's portrayal of his father. Mei Bao Jiu said he was moved by the film.

Mei Baojiu, SOn of Mei Lanfang, said, "I was deeply touched by the film. Leon Lai did a fine job. He successfully recreated the "larger than life" image of my father."

The film's premiere at Huarou Film Base in a suburb Beijing turned the setting into a sort of theme park on Mei Lanfang. The star-studded cast walked the red carpet in company with apprentices of the Mei school of Peking Opera.

"Forever Enthralled" opened in theatres across China, on December 5th.