Chinese films look ripe to break new records in 2005, with a further eight hit releases expected.

Chen Kaige's The Promise combines a star line-up of actors and magnificent computer stunts. It's previews have already been hailed by the critics, and there are high hopes for it at this year's Chinese Film Circle Awards.

Then there is Night Feast, starring Takeshi Kaneshiro and Gong Li. This latest effort from the celebrated director Feng Xiaogang is the first attempt at a Chinese court drama.

Also on the potential blockbuster list are Riding the Lonely Bike Thousands of Miles directed by Zhang Yimou and John Woo's Battle of the Red Cliff.

(CRI January 4, 2005)