'Avatar' not pulled for 'Confucius': film producer
TAIPEI (AFP) - The producer of Chinese epic "Confucius" on Wednesday denied that US blockbuster "Avatar" was ordered out of some mainland theatres to make way for the homegrown film.
that Chinese authorities decided to limit screenings of "Avatar" for the patriotic film of the ancient philosopher starring Hong Kong's Chow Yun-Fat.
John Shum, head of the film company that produced "Confucius," denied that "Avatar" was pulled for his film about social harmony and respect for authority -- themes that enjoy official favour in China.
"This is not the fact. We shouldn't complicate the matter. A movie is a movie and we are simply shooting a touching story about Confucius," he told reporters in Taipei.
"If China wants to politicise things that's their business... It has nothing to do with us," he said. "But I hope they didn't do it because it would not help, but hurt 'Confucius' instead."
Chow, also in Taipei to promote the film which will open on the island on Friday, declined to comment on the controversy, only saying he was not concerned about box office sales.
"'Confucius' was very difficult to shoot because everybody thinks of (Confucius) differently in his or her hearts. It's incredible our team could make the film," Chow said.
"Confucius" has been struggling in China in box office sales with some unfavourable reviews, while "Avatar" has become China's all-time top-grossing film in both the 2D and 3D versions, according to Chinese media reports.
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"Avatar" doesn't sound that interesting to me. Gimme "Confucius" instead, so I would hope that "Confucius" be screened here at Le Clap.