Zhang Ziyi Directs a Film on Cross-Strait Relations, Wu Kang-ren Replaced Due to 'Political Stance Risk'

Chinese film queen Zhang Ziyi has turned to directing, and after her short film "My Country, My Parents: Poem," she is taking on her first feature film as both director and actress. The movie, "Swimming 100 Meters Across the Shore," focuses on cross-strait family bonds and features a cast including Wen Qi, Wu Kang-ren, and Mark Chao, with filming expected to start in Qingdao in March. However, on the 24th, Zhang Ziyi suddenly followed Tian Xuning—who became a top star due to the BL drama "Defying Love"—on Weibo. Shortly after, Tian Xuning also followed Zhang Ziyi. This sparked rumors that Wu Kang-ren was being replaced due to 'political stance risk controversy.'

"Double Golden Actor" Wu Kang-ren signed with a Chinese management company at the end of September 2024. The next day, which was China's National Day, he posted on Weibo, saying, "Blessings to a Splendid China." However, because he didn't mention the 'motherland,' he was slammed by Chinese netizens for being insincere. Within days, there were reports that actress Sun Li—who was working with him—went on strike; another rumor stated that after Sun Li signed on, Wu Kang-ren replaced the originally chosen Vic Chou. But due to Wu Kang-ren's previous appearance at the Sunflower Movement, he was accused by Chinese netizens of being 'pro-Taiwan independence.' Sun Li reportedly raised concerns about Wu Kang-ren's political stance risk, and although Wu promised to make a statement, it was deemed insufficient, which directly angered Sun Li. Even with rumors of strikes and production halts flying everywhere, the two were later seen filming again in Shanghai, eventually finishing the shoot and moving into post-production.

Now it is being reported again that Wu Kang-ren has been replaced due to political stance controversy, and the rising actor Tian Xuning may take over his role, having impressed Zhang Ziyi with his emotional audition. As of yet, the film studio, Zhang Ziyi, and Tian Xuning's studio have not responded.

News Source: Apple News Network