Yu Feihong (SINA.COM)

Yu Feihong, a name better known ten years ago when the hit drama Qian Shou (or Hand in Hand) swept across China, is now back in the spotlight, this time with her directorial debut Eternal Beloved.

The film has already won praise from critics during test screenings.

Co-starring Yu Feihong and actor Duan Yihong, the ghost story revolves around an ancient gingko tree and tells a tragic romantic tale that crosses between the dead and the living.

The film, lauded as a Chinese version of Ghost, is in no way scary, and the previously released trailer shows fabulous cinematography that measures up to other domestic blockbusters.

But this is not surprising when you look at the powerful production team, which has gathered big names from behind the scenes of In the Mood for Love (Hua Yang Nian Hua), Red Cliff (Chi Bi), Mongol (Meng Gu Wang), The Assembly (Ji Jie Hao) and Forever Enthralled (Mei Lanfang). These include the likes of photographer Li Yaohui, renowned film cutter Lin Aner, makeup artist Xiang Haiming and recording director Wang Danrong.

Hong Kong director Hark Tsui also lent a hand and helped edit the film.

The film is adapted from Gingko Gingko, a short novel by Shanghai writer Xu Lan published in 1990. Yu Feihong was the one who conceived the idea of having someone shoot a film based on the touching story, and was later inspired by director Wang Xiaoshuai to do it herself.

Eternal Beloved is slated for a public release on August 26, the traditional Chinese Valentine's Day.

(CRIENGLISH.com July 18, 2009)