Johnnie To Kei-Fung's films never have women playing the lead role. However uncharacteristic, recent reports say Johnnie To will shoot a movie featuring a female lead this year.

 

　　

Li Bingbing

 

Xu Xiaoming, CEO of the film's investment company, revealed to the Oriental Morning Post that Johnnie To has decided to invite Chinese mainland actress Li Bingbing to play the lead in his new film. 　　

 

The male lead will reportedly be filled by Taiwan actor Zhou Yumin. 　　

 

A far cry from his famous gangster movies and comedies, Johnnie To's new film is an art house love story. Hong Kong Film Award-winning screenwriter An Xi has revised the script seven times. 　

 

The name of the new film has yet to be decided. Shooting will begin this August.

 

(CRI June 21, 2006)