“Memoirs of a Geisha” star Gong Li to play “The Last Empress”September 19, 2012 - 20:45 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Chinese actress Gong Li will take the lead role in the Chinese-U.S. joint production of “The Last Empress,” co-producers Seven Stars Film Studios announced, according to TheWrap. The film, set in a turbulent moment in Chinese history, tells the story of Empress Cixi’s life and her complex relationships with Emperor Guang Xu and Imperial advisor American Costa, both of whom shared a desire to modernize China. “Gong Li was our first choice to play the complex empress," Seven Stars Entertainment Group Chairman Bruno Wu said in a statement. "With Gong Li’s international appeal, we are confident the movie will excite and resonate with audiences across the world.” The film is set to begin production at the end of 2013 and will be dedicated to the memory of Jake Eberts, whose joint venture with Seven Stars had been developing the project. Top stories The creative crew of the Public TV had chosen 13-year-old Malena as a participant of this year's contest. She called on others to also suspend their accounts over the companies’ failure to tackle hate speech. Penderecki was known for his film scores, including for William Friedkin’s “The Exorcist”, Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining”. The festival made the news public on March 19, saying that “several options are considered in order to preserve its running” Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. |