Contrary to what have spread over the internet, “The Lady from Shanghai” is not a remake of the 1947 film which is originally based from the best-selling novel “If I Die Before I Wake” written by Sherwood King.  That was a classic Hollywood movie which starred Rita Hayworth, Everett Sloane and Orson Welles who also directed the film.  The story was about Michael, portrayed by Welles, a seaman who‘s instantly fascinated with the gorgeous Mrs. Bannister played by Hayworth.  In his desire to pursue his relationship with the woman, he became involve in a bizarre arrangement and ends up trapped in a murder plot.

This movie of the same title is entirely different from the said classic film because it is originally written by director Kar Wai Wong who will be directing the film himself.  The new “Lady from Shanghai” movie is set in the 1930’s and the story revolves around a mysterious woman who claims that she came from Shanghai and has a dangerous affair with a spy.

The film is currently in pre-production stage, shooting will start this winter 2009.  It was pre-scheduled to be released in Hongkong by December 1, 2010.  There is no final list of casts for the movie yet but for sure there will be a cluster of Asian stars.  Why not, if it will be directed by an award winning Chinese/Hongkong film director, moreover, the story speaks about the largest city in China to where director Wong was born.

But according to sources, Hugh Jackman has been recruited for the film yet unfortunately, he backed out.  Nicole Kidman was also originally cast for the role since Oct 2006 but gave it up to support her husband, Keith Urban who, at that time, is undergoing an alcoholism treatment.  Rachel Weisz was also said to be called for the project.  I wish that the lead roles be given to Asian stars instead which I think is more appropriate.

There are rumors that the movie’s production was postponed indefinitely but we wouldn’t want to believe it right? Let’s just wait and see.

Sources:  imdb.com, aceshowbiz.com