Stephen Chow Gives a Fresh Spin to the Classic King of Comedy
Why It Matters
- Rebooting a beloved film is a bold gamble, but Chow—actor-turned‑director—thrives on the challenge.
- His 1999 hit, King of Comedy, followed an aspiring actor’s rise. This time, the story shifts to a woman’s journey into stardom.
- The new movie hit screens on Feb 5, the opening day of Chinese New Year, making it a festive cultural touchstone.
Meet the New Lead
Chow handpicked 29‑year‑old Chinese actressE Jingwen to play the star‑hungry heroine. She’s been a background extra for years but never gave up the dream of leading—exactly the vibe the script needs.
The Star‑Down‑with‑Art He Aims to Portray
- Wang Baoqiang (34) joins the cast as a once‑big‑screen darling now working as a side‑kick.
- Chow insists Wang’s past as an extra and his massive roar as a star make him the perfect fit.
Chow’s Past Successes
He’s no stranger to blockbuster territory:
- His last film, Mermaid (2016), raked in over US$550 million.
- A sequel is brewing, but for the new project, Chow says the goal isn’t mimicry—just genuine storytelling.
What It Took to Finish This
Three years in the making—sleep deprived, budget‑tight, but no fancy CGI. “The script was the toughest limb,” Chow explains. “It had to carry the emotional heft and honor the legacy of the original.
A Nod to the Original
Cecilia Cheung, Oscar‑winning star from the 1999 film and now 38, lends her voice to a character. Chow’s desire to cast her didn’t materialise because she was pregnant, prompting a creative workaround.
What’s Next for Chow?
- He’s stepped behind the camera after his 2008 role in CJ7.
- Yet, he remains open to future roles if the story feels right—and it won’t be easy to coax him back on screen.
Through a mix of humor, heartfelt storytelling, and a dash of classic Hong‑Kong flair, Stephen Chow’s new film invites audiences to witness the universal truth: keep chasing your star—no matter how many cameos you’ve played on the way.
