Memoirs of a Geisha : A New Challenge

"Challenge = Success" might be the most proper illustration of Zhang Ziyi's acting experience. She is always ready to learn and to play a role of a style different from that of her previous roles. What is worth mentioning is her spirit of always seeking improvement.

Poster of Memoirs of a Geisha, featuring Zhang Ziyi

In August 2004, the American Columbia Broadcasting Corporation announced Zhang Ziyi would play the leading role of Sayuri in the film Memoirs of a Geisha , which was to be supervised by Spielberg Steven and directed by Rob Marshall. Adapted from a novel of the same name, the film portrays the life experience of a Japanese geisha (a hostess trained to entertain men with song and dance), including her struggles and pains.

Memoirs of a Geisha , slated for release this year, is the first Hollywood film where Zhang Ziyi plays the leading role, and she will have to speak English throughout the film. As she said, a new challenge has begun.

With her success in film acting, Zhang Ziyi's influence and renown is spreading internationally. In April 2005, an American magazine -- Times -- elected Zhang Ziyi as one of the most influential people in 2005, and she is the only Chinese performer to be listed.

While expressing her honor to be listed, Zhang says that as an actress, what she wants to do is try her best to improve her acting skills and provide more and more quality films.

Author: Jessie

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