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Michelle Yeoh Web Theatre
News January - June, 2006
Current News
Jun. 30th
- Photos from Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A., June 30th. Michelle at the practice sessions of the U.S. Grand Prix.
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| with Ferrari general director Mr. Jean Todt | with F1 driver Kimi Raikkonen | ||
- Developments on the Nanjing (Nanking) Massacre film reported in News of Apr. 4: Viridian Entertainment issued a Press Release at the end of last month that the production is set to begin in late 2006 in China for a December 2007 release on the 70th anniversary of the commencement of the attack on the city. The title of the film is Nanking, according to "Variety".
To be produced by Gerald Green, the film will be epic in scope but also an intimate portrait of two women -- one, a mother of a traditional Chinese family and the other, a real historical figure, the late American missionary and teacher Minnie Vautrin (1887-1941). Between them, tens of thousands of people are saved from certain murder and rape.
Chinese news reported that the co-production of U.S., U.K. and China is aiming to start in October. Retired Chinese director Luo Guanqun, who made a Nanjing Massacre film ("Tu Cheng Xue Zheng") in mainland China in 1987, will be the art director.
When scripwriter William Macdonald visited Nanjing in the spring, he said he hopes to invite Michelle and Zhang Ziyi to play the mother and daughter in the film. Meryl Streep's name was also mentioned earlier in related news. At this moment, the script has come to the 3rd version. The actors and director have not been fixed. Reportedly on the American side CAA Agency is commissioned to look for a director and main cast. They have four candidates for the director.
Fact Sheets:
1. Nanjing Massacre (Dec. 1937 - Feb. 1938): Japanese troops seized Nanjing (Nanking), then China's capital which had population more than 1 million, on December 13th, 1937. In the next six weeks, the Japanese army committed the infamous Nanking Massacre, or the Rape of Nanking, during which an estimated 300,000 Chinese civilians were killed in shocking, savage and brutal ways (including "killing competitions" and "killing games") and 20,000 women (including female children) were raped in the area.
2. Former Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Mao Zedong thanked Japanese militarists three times for the "help" provided by the Japanese invasion of China, which made possible the Communist victory in 1949. Under the 56 years of the "peaceful" rule of CCP, 60 to 80 million innocent Chinese people have been killed, due to various "political movements".
Jun. 29th
- Madame Tussauds Shanghai, the sixth branch of the renowned wax museum in the world and the first such branch in mainland China, opened in May in Shanghai, China. The museum showcases 21 wax figures of celebrities including Yao Ming, Jackie Chan, and Michelle. Madame Tussauds today has five other branches located in London, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Las Vegas and New York.
Here are some photos of Michelle's wax figure at Madame Tussauds Shanghai, taken from Chinese blogs. The figure is a copy from Madame Tussauds Hong Kong.
(click on photos to enlarge.)
- Hua Mulan updates: a poster for Stanley Tong's Mulan film and more.
Jun. 24th- Michelle at a qualifying session of the Canadian F1 Grand Prix, Montreal. ("OSports" photo. click to enlarge)
Jun. 21st
- It has become our tradition to collect birthday messages for Michelle around this time of the year and it is that time again, folks! To write your messages for Michelle, please enter
Michelle Yeoh Birthday Special 2006
Entries must be made by August 2. Please use English only. Same as what we have done for the past few years, all messages received by that time will be forwarded to Michelle by her birthday (August 6). Thank you all!
Jun. 20th
- Sunshine: teaser trailer! [updated 06/21: download link to the video]
Jun. 19th
- Looks like Michelle is not going to star in Olivier Assayas's Boarding Gate as previously reported (see News of Dec. 6, 2005) . Michelle's name, with the name of Hong Kong actor Tony Leung Ka-Fei, were attached to the project when the production date was said to start in February. Now with the new starting date set in the summer, director Assayas has been looking for other actors to play the couple which were previously assumed for Michelle and Leung. Reportedly the top candidates for the two roles are Hong Kong actress Maggie Q (MI:3), Taiwan actress Kelly Lin Hsi-Lei, Hong Kong actors Andy Lau and Simon Yam (Michelle's co-star in Holy Weapon). Currently the film is scheduled to start filming in Hong Kong in July and will move to France in August.
Jun. 16th
- Sunshine update.
- Memoirs of a Geisha: DVD release information (in Japan and other regions).
Jun. 15th
- Well, the latest from The Maui News says Michelle had to cancel the appearance at Maui due to a schedule change on a film-related commitment.
Jun. 14th
- "The Honolulu Advertiser" confirmed that Michelle is scheduled to attend the Maui Film Festival. The special Friday tribute to Michelle starts at 7:00pm, June 16th.
Jun. 13th
- Michelle will be honored with the "Rainmaker Award" ( PDF JPG ) at the 2006 Maui Film Festival, Hawaii (June 14-18). She is honored for "her transcendent ability to impact the creative dynamics of every project she touches". The "Friday Night Tributes" will take place at 7:00pm and a special reception will be held at 4:30pm, Friday June 16, at Four Seasons Resort Maui. Tickets can be purchased at festival's website.
- A Michelle interview with "Metro" (U.K.): 60 SECONDS: Michelle Yeoh. It's mainly on Memoirs of a Geisha but also has interesting bits on Sunshine and Wai Lin the Bond girl - "She's clearly the best Bond girl ever," (I like this, Michelle!) said Michelle. "If you remember, in the last one, Bond slips away from a Korean detention camp and dives into Hong Kong Harbour. Pierce [Brosnan] wanted me to appear then but I was shooting another movie in China. I was very disappointed to miss out. Hopefully, she'll have another opportunity soon...".
Jun. 9th
- Memoirs of a Geisha: Steven Spielberg speaks about his original plans for the film.
- Another AP Video from Taipei, June 6. (2:46, in Mandarin. use IE to watch embeded video)
At the end of the clip, Michelle talked about her North Pole project (reporters helped her with the Mandarin word for "North Pole"). Michelle said the filming is starting in September (newspaper reports said they are going there in August, maybe they meant the preparation starts in August?). She also said the story needs to be shot at the real location with extreme conditions instead of using greenscreen.
Talking about watches, Michelle said the one which is most precious to her is her first watch, which was given to her by her grandfather.
Jun. 7th
- Another Hua Mulan update: Stanley Tong's Mulan project finally ready to go?
- Video: Michelle at the "Audemars Piguet" press conference, June 6, Taipei. (1:26, in Mandarin. use IE to watch embeded video)
- More photos:
(photos from "Sina", "Tom", "Myrice" and "QQ". click to enlarge)
Jun. 6th
- Michelle visited Taipei, Taiwan on June 6th for "Audemars Piguet". After a short rest, the busy Michelle flew to Hong Kong. She will fly to the U.S. on the 7th for discussing upcoming projects.
Michelle's next, exciting North Pole film will be an American drama. Michelle said the main characters of the film are only three people, two female and one male. The other two main stars should be American. The production team will be heading to the Norwegian Arctic Circle in August. The Arctic filming will start in August and has to be finished in 9 weeks since the time the Arctic Circle is open for entering is limited every year. Michelle said they will live on a ship and only go to land for filming. "It will be an exciting experience and big challenge," said Michelle.
And for anyone who misses Michelle's action on the big screen - Michelle said she's going to star in a French action film, which will start filming at the end of the year. Michelle said the director and the male lead have already been fixed and she has never worked with either of them before. She's looking forward to the project. For more details we have to wait for the official announcement from the production company.
Michelle as AP's ambassadress in Taipei, June 6
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| at Taipei airport | AP "Femmes du Monde" ad campaign | |
(click to enlarge)
- Hua Mulan update. So the project has been changed - not only will Michelle not be Mulan, but also with the involvement of the Weinsteins, I'm not sure we can still hope for a non-westernized Chinese version. I'll have to change the page title, I know...
Jun. 5th
- Michelle will visit Taiwan on June 6th as a global spokesperson for "Audemars Piguet". According to Taiwan's "Apple Daily", she will only stop in Taipei for a few hours before heading to Hong Kong.
- During the Cannes Film Festival, Ms. Xu Gehui, the host of "Star Face" on Phoenix TV, interviewed Michelle. According to someone who watched the program, the show gave a quick review of some of Michelle's films and highly praised Michelle's character as a actress as well as a person. When Michelle was asked what she would choose if God gave her three chances to re-do something she had done, Michelle smiled: "I won't tell you."
Michelle with Ms. Xu at Cannes
(click on photos to enlarge)
Jun. 2nd
- Sunshine update: information on the film music.
May 29th- Photo at right: Michelle at pre-race of the Monaco Grand Prix with Slavica Ecclestone (L), wife of Bernie Ecclestone, and Jean Todt, May 28th. ("MotorSport". click to enlarge)
- Link: Michelle Yeoh says she may make movie in North Pole
- Photos: Michelle attends the closing ceremony gala dinner of the Cannes Film Festival, May 28th.
(photos from "WireImage" and "Getty Images". click to enlarge)
May 28th
- On May 28th, Michelle attended the closing ceremony of the 58th Cannes Film Festival as an award presenter.
Video 1: Michelle presents the Grand Prize at the Palme d'Or award ceremony (2:46. Windows Media)
Video 2: Michelle at the red carpet of Transylvania premiere and closing ceremony (3:45. Michelle appears around 1:10-1:37. Windows Media)
Michele presenting the Grand Prize to French director Bruno Dumont for his film Flandres
Michelle at the red carpet of Transylvania premiere and closing ceremony, with actress Eva Longoria
May 27th
- Photos: Michelle and Mr. Jean Todt at the Formula One race on May 27, Monte Carlo, Monaco.
(photos from "MotorSport", "Getty Images", and "Crash". click to enlarge)
May 26th
- Michelle at the Quand J'Etais Chanteur premiere, Cannes Film Festival, May 26.
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| meet Noemie Lenoir again | |||
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Michelle and French model and actress Noemie Lenoir at the red carpet |
(photos "WireImage" and "Getty Images". click to enlarge)
May 25th
- On May 25th, Michelle attended the "Cinema Against AIDS 2006", the annual event in aid of amfAR (American Foundation for AIDS Research) during the Cannes Film Festival. The event raised over $4 million to support amfAR's AIDS research and prevention programs.
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| (1)&(2): Michelle autographing for fans (3) with Sharon Stone, who together with Michelle were among the Jury members at 2002's Cannes Film Festival | ||
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| with Noemie Lenoir | with Sharon Stone | ||
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May 24th
- Taiwanese and Hong Kong reporters interviewed Michelle at Cannes. Michelle's next film will start filming in September. She said she can't disclose any more details about it but she told the reporters that it is an English language film, the filming locations will include the North Pole, and she's very excited about it. It is going to be a drama with art flavor but not an action film. Asked if she's switching away from action films, Michelle said she doesn't mind what kinds of films she does as long as they are good films.
Michelle met with an old friend of hers, her CTHD co-star Chang Chen, at Cannes. Since Chang Chen has never been to Monte Carlo which he has always wanted to visit, Michelle will show him around the place on Saturday.
Michelle will have a short visit to Taiwan on June 6th.
As reported earlier, Michelle is going to shoot an advertisement for Puma, which will be broadcast globally this coming Christmas.
(photos from "World Journal", "Sun" and "Liberty Times". click to enlarge)
- Michelle at the Marie Antoinette premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, May 24, 2006.
(photos from "WireImage". click to enlarge)
May 22nd
- London, May 22nd: (1) Michelle attends a conference on 'Public Private Partnerships and the Fight Against AIDS', hosted by Reuters, at the Reuters Headquarters in Canary Wharf, east London. (2) & (3) Michelle at the Annual Global Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS Gala reception.
(photos from "Reuters" and "Getty Images". click to enlarge)
May 21st
- Michelle on the Roberto Cavalli Yacht tour in a Roberto Cavalli dress, in Cannes, May 21st.
(photos from "WireImage". click to enlarge)
- Michelle poses upon arriving at the Festival Palace for the premiere of animated film Over the Hedge at the 59th Cannes Film Festival, May 21 2006.
(photos from "WireImage", "Getty Images", and "AP". click to enlarge)
May 19th
- Michelle at the Volver premiere at Cannes, May 19.
(photos from "Getty Images" and "WireImage". click to enlarge)
- "Sun Media": Stunner. scroll down to the middle, "STUNNER", for the bits about Michelle at the formal dinner for The Da Vinci Code on Wednesday.
- According to Taiwan's "UDN", Michelle has accepted the invitation
from Gilles Jacob, president of the Cannes Film Festival,
to be an award presenter at this year's Cannes. She flew from
Italy for the opening gala at Cannes. Michelle will
skip the film festival on the 22nd and will be in London for some other
activities and then will return to Cannes next day. Michelle said
she will definitely attend the premiere
screening of the Taiwanese film, Silk ("Guisi"), starring Michelle's
CTHD costar Chang Chen, at the midnight showing on the 24th.
("UDN" photo. click to enlarge)
Reporters also asked Michelle about her Hua Mulan project. Well, it is a big disappointment, I have to say, that we won't be able to see Michelle portraying Mulan. She may play Mulan's master instead. For more details please see Hua Mulan page.
May 17th
- Video: red carpet at the Cannes opening ceremony. (use IE to watch embedded video.)
Clip 1 Clip 2
In the first clip Michelle appears around 00:18-00:29 and second one around 00:10-00:22.
- Photos: Michelle attends the opening ceremony of the 59th International Cannes Film Festival and The Da Vinci Code world premiere on May 17, 2006 in Cannes, France.
(photos from "Epoch Times", "Getty Images", "WireImage", "Sina", "Yahoo", "Reuters" and "AP". click to enlarge)
May 16th
- Hua Mulan: Michelle has apparently abandoned plans to star and will produce instead...
May 15th
- News photos: Michelle with Willi Webber, F1 driver Michael Schumacher's agent, at the qualifying session for the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, Spain, May 13th.
(click on photos to enlarge. "Sina" and ""Formula 1" photos)
- Photo at right: Michelle's handprints at Hong Kong's "Avenue of Stars".
(click to enlarge)
Some of you may still remember our report from Jan. 5, 2004 on the Hand Imprint Ceremony. It was an emotional moment since Anita Mui, a sister-like friend of Michelle's, who just passed away, was supposed to be one of the honorees as well. A Chinese fan provided the following video (thanks BAM for editing it) of the ceremony:
Video Clip: Avenue of Stars Hand Imprint Ceremony (WindowsMedia, 2:30, 5.7MB. in Cantonese w/chinese subtitles)
May 11th
- Taiwanese media reported that Michelle is going to attend the award
ceremony at this year's Cannes Film Festival (May 17 - 28).
According to the report, Michelle's going to arrive at Cannes on May 21st and she will also attend a series of activities for L'oreal Paris, which is the official partner of the Cannes Festival. Michelle joined the team of international ambassadresses of L'oreal Paris in late 2005.
Photo at left: Michelle at L'oreal Paris. (click to enlarge)
May 9th
- Sunshine's new release date is set for March 16, 2007.
- Memoirs of a Geisha: John Williams will conduct the Boston Pops to perform music from Memoirs of a Geisha and other films on May 11th, 12th, 13th and 16th.
May 7th
- Sunshine: the release date of the film became uncertain...
- Photos from the European Grand Prix, Sunday, May 7th:
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| with Mr. Jean Todt at pre-race | cheering for Ferrari's victory |
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May 5th
- Photos: Michelle at the 2nd practice of the European Grand Prix, Nurburgring, Germany, May 5th.
(click on photos to enlarge. "MotorSport" and "Formula 1")
May 1st
Apr. 26th
- Memoirs of a Geisha: an episode, "Secret World of Geishas", is airing on Discovery Times tonight and tomorrow. (thanks Dean)
- Transcript and clips from the Q&A session with Michelle at the Variety screening of Memoirs of a Geisha in Hollywood last December.
Apr. 24th
- On April 23, Michelle attended the Audemars Piguet (AP) Queen Elizabeth II Cup at the Shatin Racecourse in Hong Kong and accepted interviews.
About her work plans, Michelle told reporters that she will return to London to do voice dubbing for Sunshine. In May, she will also attend the Cannes Film Festival. She's going to shoot a commercial for Puma, for which she is an ambassador, in June. Michelle also said she is preparing for two films which will start shooting later this year and she will give more details on the projects when the contracts are officially signed.
Video clips:
1: Michelle at the QII Cup [2:07. in Mandarin and Cantonese]
(open the page with IE to see embeded video. may not work with Mozilla/Firefox)
2: Michelle talking to press [1:14. in Mandarin] (windows media download)
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| at the presentation ceremony | AP ambassador | presenting trophy | ||
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| Michelle is very popular among the racing fans | (L to R) Wolfgang Sickenberg, CEO of AP (Hong Kong) Ltd, Michelle, Georges-Henri Meylan, President & CEO of AP, and Hon Ronald Arculli, Chairman of HKJC at the AP QE II Cup Sponsorship Renewal Ceremony | |
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| champagne "fight" | |||||
Apr. 20th
- More on Sunshine...
Apr. 19th
- Michelle will be attending the International Audemars Piguet QE II Cup, one of the most prestigious competitions in horse racing sport, in Hong Kong on April 23rd. (HKJC News. thanks Kityi of YeohFanz)
- Sunshine updates.
Apr. 14th
- Sunshine: colorist Jean-Clement Soret talks about the film.
- Battle over Wang Du Lu's Crouching Tiger book series and its movie, television, publishing and other rights:
Weinstein, Col clash over 'Crouching' author (The Hollywood Reporter)
Weinsteins Sue Columbia Over 'Crouching' Books
Note that the articles have the name of the author of the CTHD books spelled as "Wang Du Lee" and mistook "Lee" as the family name. The surname should be "Wang", and more common spelling of the name is "Wang Du Lu" or "Wang Dulu". For more reports see CTHD Prequel page.
Apr. 11th
- My friend Yvonne, who's in Hong Kong attending the 30th Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF, April 4 - 19), just sent me this:
-
Hi Jane --
Thought you might like to know that last night, found myself sitting two seats away from Michelle Yeoh at the HKIFF screening of "Nomad"!!!
True story:
Last night, Sarah and I went to see "Nomad". Before the screening of the movie, there was a Q&A session involving one person I don't know, Shu Kei, Patrick Tam (I think) and Cecilia Yip.
As these four folks got themselves comfortable on stage, a woman sitting across the aisle (and just two seats of the same row) away from me tried to take photos with her digital camera. Before she could do so (for much longer), a HKIFF guard went up to her and asked her to stop taking photos. She pointed to a pass she was wearing but the guard persisted in making her stop taking photos.
Up until then, I hadn't taken much notice of her -- who was simply but nicely dressed (white shirt, jeans and shoes which I found myself coveting because they looked very comfortable and practical). In fact, I spent quite a bit more time gazing at her shoes than at her face. But, at some point, I caught sight of her face -- this while turning in that direction to translate some Cantonese dialogue for Sarah -- and did a double take... it looked like Michelle Yeoh's! Sarah's response at first was "nah, it can't be. She's more likely a member of the press". But, then, why would a press photographer have such a small camera? Okay, maybe she was a writer...but I glanced once more and also noticed that other people were starring a bit at her and...
yep, you guessed it. It REALLY was Michelle Yeoh. Who stayed for the whole -- UNCUT -- version of the movie. Before disappearing down one of the regular exits looking for all the world like she was going to go hop into a taxi and then the Peak tram to go home later that evening.
You know...seeing her like that, all normal, etc.,... Somehow, it looked like a humbler, more down to earth Michelle Yeoh than the princess/diva I saw at the Malaysian Premiere of "Silver Hawk".
But what the heck was she doing acting like a regular film fan or, weirder, would be papparazzo last night? :DDDDD
Anyways...wish you were here? :)
Apr. 6th
- Sony's new DVD website for Memoirs of a Geisha.
Apr. 5th
- Michelle was in Geneva on April 5th and attended the 2006 SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie exhibition, i.e., Salon International Luxury Watch Exhibition). She will stay in Geneva for two days. She is going to spend the weekend in Paris and fly to the U.S. soon to discuss three new film projects.
Photo at right: President of AP Georges-Henri Meylan presented a new Audemars Tourbillon to Michelle |
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(from "Oriental Daily", "Sing Pao", "UDN" and "China Press".
click the photos w/borders to enlarge) | ||
Michelle is a global spokesperson for "Audemars Piguet". The last photo below is "Michelle Yeoh Watch" - the blue "Oak Leaves" that AP dedicated to Michelle. Issued in a limited edition of 100, the caseback of this exquisitely refined watch carries the signature of Michelle's. Taiwan had obtained five of them but the need exceeded their expectations and they have acquired five more.
Michelle as "AP" spokesperson
(photos taken 2005. click to enlarge)
Apr. 4th- Photo: Michelle shakes hands with Jan Peter Balkenende, the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne April 2, 2006. ("Sina" photo. click to enlarge)
- Chinese media reported that a co-production of U.S., U.K., and China production companies about the Nanjing (Nanking) Massacre has been under preparation. The film is said to be partially based on Iris Chang's book "The Rape of Nanking". The script writer, William J. MacDonald, hopes to invite Michelle and Zhang Ziyi to play the key characters - a mother and a daughter from a middle-class family who lived in Nanjing and fought to protect themselves during 1937-1938. The production is intended to be a drama like Schindler's List, which shows the cruelty of the Japanese army, the suffering and struggle of Chinese civilians, and the international support and help to the Chinese people. Gerald Green of Viridian Entertainment visited Nanjing last November and has signed an agreement with Jiangsu Culture Industry Group to co-produce the film. Reportedly the producers are also trying to invite Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep to join the cast.
The film, entitled Calamity in Nanjing, is said to start filming later this year and is aimed to be released for the 70th anniversary of the Nanjing Massacre in 2007.
Mar. 29th
- Sunshine: new website of the film.
Mar. 28th
- Michelle on the ALDO - YouthAIDS global campaign to fight AIDS: "I think it's very important that we get the message across that AIDS should be completely, totally eradicated from our world." Kicked off early this month, by leveraging the maxim "Hear No Evil, See No Evil and Speak No Evil," the 2006 campaign seeks to break the silence about HIV/AIDS and educate and empower young people.
Michelle wearing a "Hear" "See" "Speak" campaign tag
(click on the photos to enlarge)
Celebrities' pics are under "See"->"The Campaign". And under "See"->"Downloads", in the middle of the Behind-The-Scenes celebrities video, Michelle appears for a couple of seconds.
Mar. 27th
- Video clips in Memoirs of a Geisha: Michelle at "The Late Late Show" with Craig Ferguson; and two DVD extra video clips including one shows Michelle and Youki Kudoh learning to play shamisen.
- The Soong Sisters will be screened at the 9th Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF, March 31 - April 6), Honolulu, on Saturday, April 1, 3:15PM at the Dole Cannery. The 1997 film stars Michelle, Maggie Cheung and Vivian Wu and this is the third time the film has been screened at HIFF due to popular demand.
Mar. 23rd
- At the survey taken at this year's Hong Kong FILMART (Hong Kong International Film & TV Market, March 20 - 23), Michelle is again voted as one of the Hong Kong's top five "Most Desirable Actresses" by more than 340 buyers and exhibitors. The other four actresses are Maggie Cheung, Cecilia Cheung, Carina Lau and Malaysia-born Angelica Lee. The top five "Most desirable actors" are Jackie Chan, Andy Lau, Stephen Chow, Tony Leung Chiu Wai and Chow Yun-Fat.
- Memoirs of a Geisha: more book covers.
Mar. 21st
- Photos from the Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix, March 19, 2006:
middle pic: Michelle (2nd right), Jean Todt (3rd right), and Bernie Ecclestone (left)
(photos from "Getty Images", "Yahoo" and "Formula 1". click to enlarge)
Mar. 19th
- Michelle, together with Chow Yun-Fat, Chen Kaige, Coco Lee, and Tony Leung Kar-Fai, were among the 100 celebrities who attended the celebration party for Montblanc's 100th Anniversary in Shanghai, China, March 18.
 (photos from "Shanghai Online", "QQ", "Sohu", "World Journal" and "365". click on the pics w/borders to enlarge) |
 Michelle with Wolff Heinrichsdorff (L), Executive Vice President of Montblanc International and James Siano (R), president of Montblanc Asia-Pacific |
- Photos from the Malaysian Grand Prix dinner, March 16th, Kuala Lumpur:
(photos from "QQ/CFP". click to enlarge)
- Memoirs of a Geisha: Selected costumes are being displayed through April 23 in L.A. at FIDM.
- "Formula 1": Paddock Postcard from Malaysia
- The currently released DVD versions (103 minutes) of Jet Li's Fearless (Chinese title "Huo Yuanjia") in mainland China and Hong Kong do not have Michelle's parts. The film will be released in Japan under the title "Spirit" on March 18th. Many Japanese movie sites have Michelle's name listed under the cast but she's not listed at the official Japanese website.
Mar. 16th
- News photos from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, March 15th:
(1) Michelle chatting with Singer Lionel Richie (right) at a private party hosted by Datuk Mokzani Mahathir
(2) at the private dinner (R to L): Michael Schumacher, Dr. Siti Hasmah, Michelle, Dr. Mahathir and Jean Todt
(photos from "The Star". click to enlarge)
Mar. 15th
- New photos for Sunshine - yes there is a Michelle one! Also a talk about the costume design.
- Michelle will be attending the Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix Spring Gala 2006 dinner at the night of 16th in Kuala Lumpur, according to Malaysian media.
Mar. 14th
- Michelle and Mr. Jean Todt were in Terengganu, Malaysia, on March 14. Mr. Todt was invited to give a talk entitled "A Road to Success" at the University College of Science and Technology Malaysia in Terengganu. (Report from "Malaysia Star")
(1) Michelle and Mr. Todt arriving at Kustem in Terengganu
(2) Michelle being greeted by Terengganu Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh
(3) Michelle sits among the audience at the lecture
(4) students asking for autographs and taking pictures with Michelle
(photos from "SinChew" and "The Star". click to enlarge)
- Silver Hawk: exclusive photos from the Tokyo's "Fighting Goddess - Michelle Yeoh Night", provided by Goy who attended the event.
- Video download: Michelle with Tanihara Shosuke at the Audemars Piguet Night in Japan. Windows Media. 2:31. 5.6MB. (thanks BAM for the help with the clip. video source: Yahoo Japan).
Mar. 13th
- In Silver Hawk: one more photo from the special "Michelle Yeoh Night" that was held on March 3 in Tokyo.
- Photos from "Audemars Piguet with Michelle Yeoh", March 3rd, Tokyo.
Michelle with Japanese actor Tanihara Shosuke at the Audemars Piguet press
(photos from "Hobidas" and "Yahoo". Click on the pics w/borders to enlarge)
Michelle is a spokesperson for AP. Last year AP dedicated a model from its latest ladies' collection, Oak Leaves, to Michelle.
Related links:
Audemars Piguet Michelle Yeoh Watch
Hollywood Star Michelle Yeoh shines with Audemars Piguet Lady Royal Oak
When movie magic meets the art of Haute Horlogerie
Mar. 10th
- Harvey Weinstein to make prequels and sequels to Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon?
Links:
Weinsteins bringing martial arts to film, stage
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon May Roar on Broadway
Mar. 8th
- Memoirs of a Geisha: a photo of Michelle with Gong Li and Zhang Ziyi from last November.
- Found two (small) photos from the special "Michelle Yeoh Night" that was held last week in Japan. See Silver Hawk.
Mar. 7th
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates.
Mar. 6th
- Congratulations to Taiwanese director Ang Lee, who is the first Chinese to have won the best director at the Academy Awards!
Taiwanese and Hong Kong media consider Ang Lee's victory as the pride of all Chinese. They also quoted the reactions from some stars. Michelle said: "Beside my happiness for Ang Lee, I'm also so happy for his family members. Ang Lee made such a touching movie."
Many people are interested in what Ang Lee's next project will be. Ang Lee said that among many new movie plans, there is one Chinese story and he may work again with his CTHD crew team including Peter Pau, Tim Yip and Wang Hui-Ling. Ang Lee said it isn't the prequel to CTHD. He's planning to buy the film right of a famous novel.
Mar. 5th
- Memoirs of a Geisha won three Academy Awards.
Mar. 3rd
- In Memoirs of a Geisha: Michelle interview from "PhilStar", done during the film promotion last year. At the end of the interview she talked about Sunshine. Many thanks to Amanda (of PhilStar) for helping to find the article.
Mar. 1st
- Michelle attended the grand opening gala of the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo. (Report & photo)
- Memoirs of a Geisha : a special iTunes session with John Williams and Yo-Yo Ma.
- Hua Mulan: update on the development of Stanley Tong's Mulan film.
- Voting for Michelle at UGO's The Our Time Academy Awards.
Feb. 28th
- A special "Michelle Yeoh Night" is going to be held in Tokyo on March 3rd, and Michelle will be attending. For more details and ticket information please see Silver Hawk. The film will be screened at the event. Also the release date of the Japanese DVD.
Feb. 27th
- Sunshine updates. Michelle talks about the film. The title and the release date of the film are officially fixed.
- Michelle, together with Michael Schumacher and Luca di Montezemolo, Ferrari's president, celebrated Jean Todt's birthday last weekend.
- Johnny K, a Michelle fan from Shanghai, made a film poster for Michelle (and Gong Li) based on the original poster of Memoirs of a Geisha. I think the new posters are beautiful and would like to share with everyone here. See Memoirs of a Geisha.
- Michelle is one of the stars who joined the ALDO and YouthAIDS campaign to fight AIDS.
Feb. 21st
- Memoirs of a Geisha: video clips of Michelle on "Sunday Morning Shootout" and "Tavis Smiley".
Photo scans from the "Sunday Morning Shootout" (thanks Dean):
Feb. 16th- Michelle attended the French premiere of Memoirs of a Geisha in Paris today. For photos see Memoirs of a Geisha section.
Feb. 15th- Here is the Michelle photo from "Vanity Fair", March 2006 (thanks Francis and Tony!), photographed in New York on December 16, 2005.
- A 143 minute DVD version of Fearless is scheduled for release in China on Feb. 28. Michelle's parts will be included. Fearless has been doing well at the Asian box office. Although Michelle did not appear in the theatrically released version, her name is still often listed as a cast member in newspapers. I have seen blog posts from the Mainland and Taiwan that some audience members found out she's not in the film only after they watched it.
Feb. 14th
- Happy Valentines Day! Michelle is featured in this month's Hollywood issue of "Vanity Fair". (thanks Sandra for the information.)
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates: box office and additional DVD information.
Feb. 9th
- Memoirs of a Geisha: DVD cover picture. Pre-order is available at Amazon.
Feb. 7th
- Michelle will appear as a special guest at AMC's "Sunday Morning Shootout", this coming Sunday, February 12, 11:00AM. (thanks James!)
- Some of you may have noticed that Michelle's Memoirs of a Geisha pic has been added at the front page slide show (JavaScript is used for the display. For transition effect use IE). Also the background color of the site has been changed. If you still see a red curtain background, you may need to refresh your browser.
Feb. 6th
- Memoirs of a Geisha: DVD featurettes.
Feb. 3rd
- Memoirs of a Geisha: John Williams and Yo-Yo Ma will appear on Jay Leno's "The Tonight Show" next Monday.
Feb. 2nd
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates: US DVD release; a new Korean poster; costume designer Colleen Atwood talking about kimono making; and more on box office.
Jan. 31st
- Memoirs of a Geisha received six Oscar nominations: art direction, cinematography, costume, original score, sound mixing, and sound editing. Ang Lee's Brokeback Mountain is the biggest hit with eight nominations including best picture, best director, best actor, best adapted screenplay, best cinematography, and original score. Congratulations Ang Lee!
- Memoirs of a Geisha: the previously scheduled February release of the film in Mainland China is officially canceled.
Jan. 28th- On the 23rd during the Sundance Festival, Michelle attended the premiere of Zhang Yuan's "Little Red Flowers", which is the only Chinese film at the festival. Although she entered the screening hall quietly with her hat brim almost down over her eyes, she was recognized by the audience right away and caused a stir.
Photo: Michelle with director Zhang Yuan and other filmmakers of "Little Red Flowers". ("Sina". click to see full pic)
Jan. 26th
- Sunshine updates: Michelle talks about working on the project, and the U.S. release information.
- Memoirs of a Geisha: a new poster and a new header pic for the sub-sections. Also several new photos for supporting cast - thanks Ziduan and BAM for the scans!
Jan. 25th
- On January 24, Michelle attended the panel: "East Meets West Meets East: the Art of Asian Cinema", at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival. The festival is being held from January 19 to 29 at Park City, Utah.
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| announcement at Sundance Daily Insider | Michelle at the panel discussion | |
| (photos from Sundance and "Wire Image". click to enlarge) | ||
- According to the Malaysian "China Press", director Ronny Yu said the cut scenes of Michelle and Somluck Kamsing from Fearless will be included in the DVD release. The fight between Jet Li and Thailand boxing champion Somluck Kamsing will be included in the Thailand theatrical release although it's not in the general release.
- Michelle is going to celebrate the Chinese New Year (it's the 29th this coming Sunday) with her boyfriend and her family members in Italy. Malaysian newspapers said Michelle's mother is flying to Italy Thursday.
- FilmMonthly Intervew: Ms. Yeoh Gives Up Action for 'Geisha' Elegance
Jan. 23rd
- According to "Apple Daily", the original director's cut of Fearless ends with the charming Michelle finishing her speech: "As a martial artist, trying one's best is the goal."
At the Shanghai premiere of Fearless, Jet Li apologized again to Michelle. He said Michelle was purely helping him and she didn't even take a paycheck. Jet Li said he personally prefers the uncut version since it shows the whole idea of what he would like to pass to the audience. Apparently some of the Chinese news agencies are unaware of the cut of Michelle's parts and they are still including her name in the cast in their news reports.
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates: report on the releases and the box figures.
- Ang Lee is not considering the prequel to Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon as his next project at the moment. More details see CTHD Prequel page.
Jan. 20th- Memoirs of a Geisha video: International TV special (picture at left is a scan of the video).
- Fearless premiered in Beijing on January 20. During the press conference, Jet Li said he feels terribly sorry that they had to cut out the character of Michelle's as well as that of Thailand boxing champion Somluck Kamsing in the final version. He called Michelle "my brother" in the speech to show their close "brother"hood. During another guest chat with "Sina", Jet Li said he hopes the DVD will keep the original director's cut. "Or I may make a 'DVD special' to include those cut parts," said Li.
Jan. 19th
- On Zoe Baxter's radio show "Lucky Cat" on Resonance 104.4FM, London, this Friday (January 20), it will be a "Michelle Yeoh Special" and a competition to win a Silverhawk DVD. The show airs at Friday 1:00-2:00PM UK time and it repeats Tuesday at 10:00AM. For people who are not in the area, you can listen to the program via Resonance 104.4fm. (thanks Zoe!)
Jan. 18th
- In Memoirs of a Geisha: international poster, some "For Your Consideration" Oscar ADs, and box office reports.
- Sunshine: "Empire" (U.K.Jan. 16) has an exclusive - Cillian And Michelle Walk On Sunshine.
Jan. 17th- The January issue of "China Screen" magazine has a special on Fearless. Michelle is still featured in it. It says in the description: "The film started at the splendid hall in a convention center in Shanghai. Standing on the front stage, Miss Yang (Michelle Yeoh) was speaking to the Olympic Committee, stating the reasons why she thinks Chinese martial arts should be accepted for Olympic competition. Representatives from different countries kept raising the question on what the real spirit of martial arts is. Miss Yang then pointed at the big screen and said she's going to tell it through a true story..."
Click on the photo at left to see the full page (in Chinese).
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates.
- January 16th, Milan, Italy. Michelle attended a charity fashion show at the Milan Fashion Week. Talking about dressing up, Michelle told reporters that in the midst of a travel mess between Madrid, Los Angeles, and Milan, she lost her suitcase! ("Wire Image" photos. click to enlarge)
 Michelle with actor Antonio Cupo |
 with Italian designer Roberto Cavalli and pop singer/model Victoria Beckham |
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Jan. 16th
- Michelle may not attend the Golden Globe tonight. See more details in Memoirs of a Geisha.
- Links of interests:
Guardian (U.K.): Michelle Yeoh: Me and my travels
The Star (Malaysia): Versatile Michelle
Jan. 14th
- According to Hong Kong and Taiwan media, Michelle will be a presenter at the Golden Globe Awards next Monday. More details see Memoirs of a Geisha section. Also see a collection of selected photos from the London premiere.
Jan. 13th
- Hong Kong newspaper "Sun" reported that Michelle has been invited as a presenter at the Golden Globe Awards.
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates.
- Film photos of Michelle from the original version of Fearless. As reported yesterday, we won't see Michelle in the final cut.
 Michelle's Miss Yang |
 Miss Yang as an Olympic committe official |
| (click to enlarge. "SHM" photos) | |
- Michelle talks about Bond and Bond girl when she was in London for the Memoirs of a Geisha premiere:
Empire Red Carpet: Bonds Have More Fun
The Mirror: Licence to Thrill
MI6: Wai Lin's Cut Role From Die Another Day (an old report)
Jan. 12th
- Michelle will NOT appear in the final cut of Jet Li's Fearless (Chinese title Huo Yuanjia).
Recently Fearless had advance screenings in Taipei and Beijing. Audience surprisingly discovered that Michelle did not appear in it - all her scenes had been cut. The explanation from the film company is that the original version was too long. Although the earlier version got a greenlight from the Chinese officials in last November, director Ronny Yu decided to re-edit the film and make it shorter. The new version reduced from the length 143 minutes to 103 minutes and the order of the film sequences was re-arranged. The deleted material includes a fight sequence of Jet Li with a Thai Boxing champion as well as all of Michelle's parts. Ronny Yu met with Michelle and discussed the matter, and Michelle showed her understanding. Jet Li also apologized to Michelle.
Originally Michelle was supposed to guest star in the film as a modern martial artist who tries to get martial arts listed in the Olympics. Her character, Miss Yang, would only appeared at the beginning and the end of the film and she had no fight scenes. Michelle spent two days at the filming set in Shanghai last July. Taiwanese "Liberty Times" asked the film company and Michelle's assistant whether Michelle was paid for this work, both said they don't know. Michelle agreed to appear in the film because of her friendship with director Ronny Yu and Jet Li. Now Michelle's name has been removed from the official site of Fearless.
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates: links to the U.K. premiere reports and (older) interviews in London.
Jan. 11th- Michelle attended the U.K. premiere of Memoirs of a Geisha and the drinks reception prior to the premiere on January 11 in London. Some photos can be seen in the Memoirs of a Geisha section. More photos are coming up. Also new in the section are the Hong Kong and Taiwan posters of the film.
Jan. 10th
- Sunshine: a new photo of Michelle/Corazon's Oxygen Garden.
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates: the location where the ending scene was filmed, and the Hong Kong premiere.
Jan. 9th
- Memoirs of a Geisha: Taiwanese premiere and information on the mainland release - it's not clear if the film is going to be shown in Mainland China.
- E! Television announced its "101 Sexiest Celeb Bodies" at the 101 series and Michelle is on the list. (thanks sandra)
Jan. 6th- Sunshine: Michelle talks about working on the film.
- "Faces" (Malaysia): The First Lady Of Martial Arts
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates. Michelle will not attend the Hong Kong premiere (thanks Kityi of YeohFanz).
Jan. 4th
- Memoirs of a Geisha: Michelle will attend the premiere in London next week.
Jan. 3rd 2006
Happy New Year everyone! Now, time to catch up some Michelle news -
- December 26 2005 was a year after the tsunami that hit coastal areas of the Indian Ocean, claimed over 270,000 lives and left 1.5 million people homeless. The Force of Nature Foundation (FON), a Malaysian-based global public charitable organisation, commemorated the event by organising the photography exhibition: 'Tsunami - One Year On: A Photographic Journey'. The campaign featured a photographic exhibition displaying 124 images of the two worst-hit areas: Sri Lanka and Aceh.
The event was officiated by Datuk Michelle, who is FON's goodwill ambassador, on behalf of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. "I was deeply moved by what I saw in Banda Aceh. Besides raising awareness of continuing needs in tsunami-hit countries, this exhibition also aims to remember the losses and honour the courage of survivors," said Michelle, who visited Aceh in early 2005, soon after the tsunami hit.
The highlight of the event was the lighting of candles by children and the observance of one minute of silence, headed by Michelle and the local celebrities. The exhibition lasted until Jan. 2 at the 1 Utama Center in Kuala Lumpur.
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| MCPA president Vincent Thian showing Michelle around the exhibition | Michelle and Mr. Jean Todt at the FON event | ||
The Star: Actress reminds public to continue helping tsunami survivors
New Straits Times: Michelle Yeoh lends a hand at exhibition
- After spending the Christmas holiday with her family, Michelle had to leave Malaysia, skipping the New Year celebration there. She said she wished she could stay longer at her hometown but she has to go to Hong Kong to prepare for her next film.
- Sunshine: photos! Yes there is one with Michelle.
- Memoirs of a Geisha updates, including U.K. premiere date and Japanese posters of each of the main characters. Picture at right is Michelle's Mameha.
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