In Taiwan for a day to promote his new film, Journey to the West <西遊：降魔篇>, director Stephen Chow (周星馳) explained his choice to not star in the film, “I want to put all my energy into directing. Anyway, you will see parts of me in all the actors – Shu Qi (舒淇) knows kung fu, Wen Zhang (文章) has ideals just like mine, and Show Luo (羅志祥) is devoid of emotions like myself.” In an interview with Taiwan’s Apple Daily, Stephen Chow said of Show Luo, “Initially I wanted to play the role of the Persian prince myself, but I see that he looks more empty and more lonely. He’s handsome and comical – of course I have to choose him!” After almost a 4-year break since CJ7 <長江七號>, Stephen Chow is back with Journey To the West, which will be aired in time for the Lunar New Year. Despite not appearing in front of the cameras, Stephen promised his fans the movie will not be lacking his signature humor. However, viewers may not see the last of him onscreen yet. The “King of Comedy” promised that he will be back, even better than ever. “I am always thinking of something, no matter whether I’m awake or asleep. When my head is empty, I’m uncomfortable and I will look at pictures, watch movies or just talk to someone just to seek inspiration.” It is no wonder that with so much on his mind, he has no time or the inclination to pay much attention to the recent criticisms about his high regard for money. Still Single Nor does Stephen have time for romance. Even though ex-lovers such as Athena Chu (朱茵) and Karen Mok (莫文蔚) are already happily married, 50-year-old Stephen is still very much single and in no rush to get attached. Instead, he chooses to leave it to fate. Perhaps reel life reflects real life as most of the onscreen lovers in Stephen’s movies do not have a happy ending. “A sad and poignant romance is the most beautiful.” Delighted to Be Able to Work with Idol and Goddess Throughout the interview, Show Luo could not stop glancing at Stephen. Self-confessed to be Stephen’s fan, Show’s biggest achievement in this project is obtaining Stephen’s telephone number. Show said, “I told Stephen I would like to be in a movie with him, even if it’s only standing next to him.” When Show came face-to-face with his goddess, Shu Qi, for the first time, he was too dumbfounded and stunned by her beauty and elegance. Journey to the West will released before the Lunar New Year holiday simultaneously in Taiwan, mainland China and Hong Kong. Journey to the West Trailer (Taiwan Edition) [video=youtube;1TDmfkTfVZM]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=1TDmfkTfVZM[/video]
