China's 60th anniversary plans include giant blockbuster movie

Of course there were going to be official speeches, a PLA march or two, and tons of fireworks... but did you know the Chinese government was also planning on celebrating its 60th anniversary this year with a star-studded blockbuster movie was well? How delightful!

From Variety:

China will release a major propaganda pic to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the revolution that swept the communists to power, featuring what its state-backed producers call the "most powerful lineup in the history of Chinese film."

The movie, whose title translates as "The Great Cause of China's Foundation," is being overseen by China Film head Han Sanping and will be directed by Huang Jianxin.

Tang Guoqiang and Zhang Guoli will play the titular roles of Chairman Mao Tse-tung and his bitter rival Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek (who will likely spend parts of the movie kicking puppies and stealing lollipops from babies... that villain of the people!) Other members of the cast include Chen Kaige and Feng Xiaogang, plus Andy Lau, Jiang Wen and Ge You.

The entire movie will be produced and financed by the China Film Group. They declined to give a budget for the movie, but said the actors and actresses were offering their services at a very special rate - as a show of support for the anniversary.

It's due for release on September 10, with an extra-wide screening on October 1.

Source: Flumesday