Huo Yuanjia

This week, martial arts star Jet Li began shooting his latest movie, a biopic of legendary martial arts master and Chinese patriot Huo Yuanjia (1869-1910) that is being directed by Ronny Yu (Freddy vs. Jason, The Bride with White Hair).

In a recent Q&A session on his official site, Jet Li explained his intent. “I hope to use this film and character to let people understand what is really important and dear to my heart. I also want to explain once and for all the meaning of wushu and kungfu.”

Li joined a Hollywood production crew in Shanghai on Sunday to begin the shoot. Columbia Pictures has invested about US$19 million into the officially unnamed project.

Li is playing Huo Yuanjia (Fok Yuanjia), son of a martial arts champion who dreams of following in his father’s footsteps. After becoming the most famous fighter in China, he disappears for years when personal tragedy strikes. Ultimately, he must come out of hiding to defend the honor of his country in an international tournament.

Chinese actress Sun Li is playing a blind woman who falls in love with Huo Yuanjia.

Martial arts movie master Yuen Wo-ping, whose recent action choreography can be seen in Kung Fu Hustle and House of Fury, joined the production as action director. Bill Kong (House of Flying Daggers, Hero) is producing.