Antoine Fuqua directing love story about Chinese concubine Yang Guifei
Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) is set to direct a biopic on legendary Tang Dynasty imperial concubine Yang Guifei, according to producer Xi’an Qujiang Film & TV Investment Group. The Xi’an Qujiang group is the only current investor in the untitled historical epic that has a price tag of 200 million yuan (US $30 million). Production is scheduled for later this year on location throughout China later for a targeted 2012 release.
The film will "tell the tragic love story between imperial consort Yang, one of the four famed beauties of ancient China, and 8th century EmperorXuanzong, the longest reigning monarch of the Tang Dynasty, who ascended to the throne at the summit of the dynasty's power and influence. Their love affair has been widely celebrated by classical poets and is the subject of paintings, Chinese operas, books and television shows in the subsequent millennium."
Here is a statment from Xi’an Qujiang chairman Zhao An:
The film will "tell the tragic love story between imperial consort Yang, one of the four famed beauties of ancient China, and 8th century EmperorXuanzong, the longest reigning monarch of the Tang Dynasty, who ascended to the throne at the summit of the dynasty's power and influence. Their love affair has been widely celebrated by classical poets and is the subject of paintings, Chinese operas, books and television shows in the subsequent millennium."
Here is a statment from Xi’an Qujiang chairman Zhao An:
“It’s a big subject, well known in Chinese circles around the world, with director Antoine Fuqua at the helm, we’re hoping to bring this story on to the international stage.”
The Chinese-language project has been in development for two years. Finishing touches are being done to the script and casting is underway. Fuqua is also helming the Tupac Shakur biopic in late spring/early summer for Morgan Creek.