Wang Baoqiang (L) and Jia Zhangke (second from the right) [CRI]

Award-winning Chinese filmmaker Jia Zhangke is continuing his efforts to help younger directors by financing a new film called "Hello Mr. Tree."

The film will be directed by Han Jie, who assistant-directed many of Jia's films, including "Still Life," which won the top Golden Lion award at the 2006 Venice Film Festival.

"I once watched a short film made by Han. It was only about ten minutes but was very impressive. After watching that film I decided to help Han realize his director's dream," Jia told reporters on Monday. He will supervise the production.

Director Han Jie [CRI]

Filming is to start in a week.

"Hello Mr. Tree," written by Han, revolves around the title character, Mr. Tree, a thirty-something who longs to get married but suffers when he does.

Wang Baoqiang will play Mr. Tree. Wang is known for leading the extremely popular 2007 television drama "Soldiers Sortie." The female lead will be up-and-comer Tan Zhuo, who starred in Lou Ye's "Spring Fever," which won best screenplay at this year's Cannes Film Festival.

"Hello Mr. Tree" is the latest film to benefit from Jia Zhangke's 100-million-yuan (US$14.65 million) project aiming to finance new directors throughout Asia in four or five films in the coming year.

Last month, Jia announced he would back South Korean newcomer Baek Seung-Hoon's comedy entitled "Flying Duck."

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