Mel Gibson has taken his artistic talents to China to serve as the art director on the new 3D war movie, "The Bombing." Xiao Feng will direct the World War II film, which stars American actor Bruce Willis.
Chinese producer Dr. Shi Jianxiang, the founder and CEO of Shanghai Kuailu Investment Group, asked Gibson to join the $65 million production. The Oscar-winner's involvement with the film was announced at a press conference in Xiangshan last week, according to The Wrap.
"Mel is interested in what happened during that period of time, and provided relevant suggestions on how to make the movie. He is very insightful," Dr. Shi said.
"The Bombing" is about the bombing of Chongqing by the Japanese air force during the Second World War (part of the regional Sino-Japanese War). The film will portray the suffering of the Chinese people at that time and their determination to fight against fascism. It's also the only major WWII air raid never featured on screen.
"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," Dr. Shi said.
Production on "The Bombing" is scheduled to start in August. Willis will film his scenes just over eight days, but the action star has always wanted to act in China, his reps told Variety.
