Back better than ever
By Liu Wei (China Daily)
Updated: 2010-04-01 15:56
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Anything but 'blacklisted'
Crossing Hennessy is Tang Wei's second film, the only other being Lust, Caution in 2007. For most actresses three years out of the limelight would be enough to signify the end of her career, but Tang has some powerful friends.
Ang Lee asked his friend, Hong Kong film mogul Bill Kong to take care of her and the investor in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Lust, Caution has done so.
He made sure Tang kept a low profile and was seen at just a few charity campaign events, working as volunteer without any makeup, or in bookstores, and at several top brands' fashion shows overseas.
Additionally, she attended drama courses in London and hired a teacher to learn ancient Chinese at home.
As such she has won favor for being a woman who has maintained her dignity and self-restraint.
Her second movie has been carefully chosen. The role is quite different from Lust, Caution, a plain girl with good manners and a smile that melts hearts.
The lead actor, Jacky Cheung, has a flawless public image among Hong Kong entertainers because of his professionalism and loyalty to family.
The supporting cast members are all senior Hong Kong actors who have avoided tabloid gossip, such as Paw Hee-Ching and Danny Lee.
Promotion for the film was also cautiously arranged. Few media institutions were granted an interview and questions had to focus on the new film.
At the ongoing Hong Kong Film Festival, reporters were told that any questions about being "blacklisted" would end the interview. Most reports have given Tang credit for her performance on and off the screen. The consensus seems to be: As one of the most talented actresses of her generation, Tang deserves an opportunity to work.