Gillian Chung Thanks Andy Lau for Adapting Stage Play to Film, Unfazed by Edan's CNY Rival
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong superstar Andy Lau has taken on the role of producer for a film adaptation of the hit stage play "The Tale of That Turtle's Soul Return," featuring original cast members Gillian Chung and Yammer Cheng. The movie, directed by Qiu Haitao, is scheduled to begin filming in November 2026 with its sights set on the lucrative 2027 Chinese New Year market. Gillian Chung confirmed the news during a hosting engagement, expressing heartfelt thanks to Andy Lau for keeping the entire original cast intact. When asked about potential competition from Edan Lui's rumored CNY film, she responded with characteristic humor, saying she hopes for more options to entertain Hong Kong audiences during the holiday season.
Key Points
- Andy Lau became inspired by the stage play "The Tale of That Turtle's Soul Return" starring Gillian Chung and Yammer Cheng, deciding to produce a film version
- Director Qiu Haitao will helm the movie, with filming scheduled to start in November 2026 targeting the 2027 Lunar New Year holiday
- Gillian Chung confirmed she will reprise her stage role as the female lead, though the film script has not yet been completed
- She clarified that her involvement is limited to acting, as she has no knowledge of the production's behind-the-scenes arrangements
- Regarding competition with Edan Lui's rumored CNY release, Gillian Chung said she welcomes more choices for audiences and feels no anxiety about the rivalry
Why It Matters
Andy Lau's involvement brings mainstream commercial appeal to an otherwise niche stage production, potentially introducing Cantonese theatrical works to wider audiences across Asia. The collaboration between veteran star Andy Lau and rising talent like Edan Lui during the highly competitive CNY frame signals a new generation of Hong Kong entertainment partnerships, while also highlighting how stage performers like Gillian Chung can transition successfully to cinema.
Andy Lau's involvement brings mainstream commercial appeal to an otherwise niche stage production, potentially introducing Cantonese theatrical works to wider audiences across Asia. The collaboration between veteran star Andy Lau and rising talent like Edan Lui during the highly competitive CNY frame signals a new generation of Hong Kong entertainment partnerships, while also highlighting how stage performers like Gillian Chung can transition successfully to cinema.