Movie Industry Gets a Boost as Rich Slate of New Domestic Productions Announced

An array of events sure to boost the domestic film industry were announced yesterday.
 

　　An array of film projects and events sure to boost the domestic film industry were announced yesterday at the ongoing 2016 Shanghai International Film and TV Festival.

　　Contemporary writer Yan Geling\'s 2009 novel "Shanghai Sojourners" will be adapted into an epic romance film, co-produced by Kylin Pictures and Beacon Pictures. Hollywood film-maker and actor Kevin Costner will be the film\'s co-producer. Set against the backdrop of Shanghai during World War II, the story is a touching tale of love, redemption and humanity. It will start shooting in October.

　　The highly-anticipated fantasy adventure film "Legend of the Naga Pearls" will hit cinemas across China next year.

　　The film stars Zhang Tian\'ai and Simon Yam and is an adventure into the fantasy world of mermaids. Stunning CG visual effects will be featured in the movie to cater for young audiences.

　　Hong Kong stars Nick Cheung, Louis Koo and Charmaine Sheh also gathered yesterday to promote the cop drama "Line Walker" which is slated for release this summer.

　　Qin Hong, chairman of the film\'s producer J.Q. Pictures, announced that more than 20 films of diverse genres and styles will be released by the company in ensuing years.

　　The film projects include Hong Kong director Peter Chan\'s biopic about Chinese tennis player Li Na, Zhao Wei\'s second directorial film "No Other Love," and producer Li Qiang\'s suspense film "Shadow of Ashes."

　　Also at the festival yesterday, the release date of comedy crime film "Foolish Plans," a realistic, black-humored story, was revealed to be July 8. Comedy stars Wang Ning, Xiu Rui and Wang Zijian star in the tale of a hilarious fight for 100 million yuan.

　　Celebrated scriptwriters and producers from the United States also launched a two-day workshop yesterday for students of the Shanghai Vancouver Film School.

　　Zack Estrin, co-producer of the classic American series "Prison Break," and Vince Gerardis, producer of the fantasy series "Game of Thrones," shared their expertise and experience in production and scriptwriting with local students.