Exclusive: World-renowned actor and influential Hong Kong action filmmaker Donnie Yen is set to star in a film from 87North and Universal Pictures. kung fu, an adaptation of the classic 70s TV series. Kelly McCormick, David Leitch and Guy Danella will produce through 87North, with Leitch set to direct.
Stephen Chin wrote the screenplay. Stephen L'Hereaux will also produce, and original author Ed Spielman will produce. kung fu The television series will executive produce.
The original ABC series starred David Carradine as a martial arts master who fled China after his master was murdered. He wandered the Old West, escaping assassins trying to kill him and helping people who were oppressed and endured rampant racism. He was a peaceful person until he got angry, which happened at least once.
With his groundbreaking work both on and off camera, Donnie Yen is one of the very few actors of his generation to have worked at the highest levels of the Chinese and Hollywood film industries. The studio saw this as a big factor when they made him an offer. role. Uni and 87North recognize the global appeal of the original series and knew they needed a star with the same global reach to lead it.
Senior Vice President of Production Development Matt Reilly and Director of Development Tony Ducret will oversee on behalf of the studio.
“Donnie Yen is an incredibly talented actor and action movie legend. It is a privilege to have a true martial arts master helm this global film,” said Ritchie. “Work with him, our creative partners, and Universal to reimagine this beloved story for the big screen.”
Yen pioneered the depiction of mixed martial arts moves in films such as: SPL/Killzone and flash pointThe following projects are iron monkey, bodyguard and assassin, Usha and kung fu jungle Sets a new standard in screen kung fu fighting. He has since become a major figure not only in Chinese action films but also in global cinema.
He is also immensely popular and well-received. IP Man The film series is a U.S. box office hit. John Wick: Chapter 4, star Wars divan: log one and xXx: The Return of Xander Cage N received rave reviews and audience reviews. He also appeared in the Disney Feature. Mulan The same goes for hit Asian movies. dragon city and raging fire It was also produced by him.
NC recently completed producing, directing, and starring in a passion project. hellIt is an adaptation of the classic Chinese novel Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils, which Yen characterized as one of the greatest challenges of his career.
Chin wrote it war dogs, starring Jonah Hill and Miles Teller and directed by Todd Phillips. He is currently writing AMC's original spy series. A long-time fan and student of classic martial arts films, he << Enter the Dragon At Warner Bros. Studios.
Yen is represented by Independent Artist Group and R&CPMK. Leitch is repped by CAA, Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole and 42West. Chin is president of Syndicate Entertainment.