Andy Lau and Maggie Q. (Source: CCTV.com.cn)

Romance of Three Kingdoms ranks among China's four most important pieces of ancient literature. It tells amazing tales of the era between 184 and 280 AD. when China was divided into the three kingdoms of Wei, Shu and Wu. The vast 600-year-old novel has been a favourite for many generations. Now veteran Hong Kong singer and actor Andy Lau brings to the screen his interpretation of one of the story's heroic Generals Zhao Yun.

Romance of Three Kingdoms. (Source: CCTV.com.cn)

There's really a long list of heroes in "Romance of Three Kingdoms." General Zhao Yun or Zhao Zilong from Shu Kingdom is one. The FILM, "Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon" focuses on the legendary life of General Zhao. Andy Lau portrays Zhao Yun, who obeys the command of his dying leader, Liu Bei, to fight, to unify central China.

Another film John Woo's "Red Cliff" which is now in production is also adapted from "Romance of Three Kingdoms". Chinese mainland actor Hu Jun takes the role of General Zhao in this one.

Andy Lau, lead actor, said, "I think Hu Jun is also a wonderful actor. We believe he has did as much homework as me. I did a lot of research. The difference is he plays Zhao Yun at the age of 28. In my role, I cover a much longer period between the ages of 20 and 70. Clearly, different actors will give different interpretations of the same character."

(CCTV April 8, 2008)