Actor and filmmaker Mel Gibson has joined the crew of 3D war movie The Bombing. Speaking at the movie’s Xiangshan production base last week, Gibson announced his new role as art director of the $65 million movie which features more than 30 actors and actresses including Bruce Willis.
Known to Chinese audiences for his role in Braveheart, Oscar-winning director and actor Gibson was invited to join the production of The Bombing by leading Chinese producer and director Dr. Shi Jianxiang, founder and CEO of Shanghai Kuailu Investment Group.
“Mel is interested in what happened during that period of time, and provided relevant suggestions on how to make the movie,” said Dr. Shi. “He is very insightful.”
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The Bombing is based on the bombing of Chongqing by the Japanese air force in World War, and portrays the hardship suffered by Chinese people at that time. Of all the major air raids throughout WWII, the bombing of Chongqing is the only one that has not been featured on screen.
Dr. Shi stated that his reason for making the film is to demonstrate China’s national spirit against fascism, saying, “I hope audiences around the world can appreciate the cruelty of war and our courage, determination and capability to fight against it. China needs such movies that deliver hope and spirit.”
Focused on developing Chinese cinema, Dr. Shi has produced various cross-cultural movies including Ip Man 3, contributing himself to fully demonstrating Chinese culture and its characteristics to a global audience.
Dr. Shi was optimistic about box office ratings of The Bombing and believes the movie can attract international audiences for its good quality. He also suggested that he has had other co-production movies ongoing currently and hopes that the cooperation between Hollywood and the Chinese movie industry could bring a brighter future to the domain.
