Oh my! This is interesting. Glad to see korean stars make slowly make their way to Hollywood!

i wonder if kwon sang woo even appreciates who michael gondry is..

Another action flick :)

I am conflicted.

2009 - Jeon Ji Hyun, Bi, Lee Hyung Heon, and now KSW. To be shown in america, must hold sword and if male, pls wear a mask.

Stephen Chow, with decades long filmography in comedy/action films like the legendary god of gamblers series and more recent stuff like king of beggars, shaolin soccer and kungfu hustle, seemed a natural fit for the role. Having KSW, recently of Cinderella Man, take the role seems a bit forced.

Maybe KSW won't be forced to wear a mask and be an faceless martial arts expert. Maybe they will be "PC" about it, and have KSW only wear the mask for a few minutes and maybe he'll get a suitable non-white love interest as well.

It may be be Gondry, and the film might actually be good, but I see everything now with one eye always turned toward the portrayal of asian males and korean males particular. If they can make half of the doctors on television shows african american, and a good percentage of the attorneys, then maybe we can do better in 2010 and beyond for asian males.

There is nothing big about it, other than the fact (and what a chance that is) that he will be making a debut in Hollywood.
Just like Lee Byung Hun, he will be cast as another martial arts expert or whatever, in this case hero if in fact he is to play Kato (Lee Byung Hun plays the bad guy in Cobra, but I don’t care. The movie is nothing out of this world, but I don’t care. I will still go and see it since he is my all time favorite actor, even over any western actor… well, there is still a contradiction about that, but who cares right now, that’s out of the point.)
I think its kinda sad how Asians are pretty limited when it comes to acting roles here in the western part of the world. However, I can understand this, because like them, we are just as limited -perhaps even more- when appearing in their productions. How many westerners live in Asia (Korea, Japan, China) as opposed to the many Asians that live here in the US? And, lets not mention Brazil, which holds the largest Japanese community outside of Japan. There is also, Panama, Peru, some in Cuba... and the list goes on.
I think to make it in Hollywood they have to start from the bottom; there are no questions about that. Even the American actors have to undergo a series of lousy roles before hitting the jackpot.
So, my theory is: If the actor is actually good, and has what it takes. Soon he would be doing more than kicking and fighting. He might have to hold a sword forever (which I doubt) but he wont be the bad guy or the assistant forever. He would be like Watanabe-san, (The Last Samurai, Memoirs of a Geisha) a true leading actor.

Eh? Kwon Sang-woo possibly paring up with Seth Rogen? @_@ that should be worth watching. Hmm hope KSW doesn't have to cry in this, cause Seth you better watch out!

Never knew anything about the Green Hornet aside from the Bruce Lee starred in it as Kato. Not really interested in the story, but rather what the role KSW will get to play if he gets cast. As much as I love KSW (or should that be the past tense 'loved' having skipped his last 2 kdramas?) if the better actor Lee Byung-Hun (MINE!) gets reduced to a 2nd tier role in a Hollywood movie, what hope is there for KSW.

But what is with this sudden wave of Korean stars/singers trying to break into Hollywood/America? Good for them for trying, but if the great Chow Yun Fat (what a great actor and a great man!) and his megawatt talent can get dumped into crappy roles in Hollywood, why or why do they think they can break Hollywood?

Hollywood still has not gotten how HUGE the Asian stars are. Morons. Come to think of it - would the artist and that (ie Asian) market not be better served, and more lucrative, for these stars to continue to focus on roles that do not belittle their talents? Do they also not realise how offensive it is to continually have roles that rely on 'stereotypes'? Blah so boring.

I would rather watching something creative, innovative coming even in small roles for these artists than have to read about them taking roles that reduce them to nothing more than 5 sec background in Hollywood productions!! They are too talented to waste their talents that way.

uh...how's his English?

or are they giving him a non-speaking role? :(

I was REALLY excited when I first heard stephen chow was going to star and direct this. I've seen most of his movies and they are amazing! So when he left this one I knew it was a turkey that they wouldn't let him fix.

I think every asian actor should RUN from this part.

Michel*effing*Gondry?! I'm ineffably excited!

I'm just not sure about KSW, but I'll wait and see, he might be good in it.

I'm actually kind of sad to read this news as I'm quite sure that Kato will now be a MUCH REDUCED role in this Green Hornet remake.

This first came as an exciting news about 18 months ago when it was announced as the Stephen Chow's vehicle to enter Hollywood with him at the helm of directing and acting in it. This could be his ideal debut in Hollywood for what a big Bruce Lee fan he has been. I even read an interview of Seth Rogen who seemed to be so exciting about this collaboration and his watching a lot of kung fu movies in preparation for the project. But then things took an ugly turn and Stephen Chow pulled out from the project earlier this year. Things sort of die down a bit and now KSW is touted as a Kato replacement. I can see some resemblance of KSW to Bruce Lee - watch the jawline. Somewhat, I guess the role is now a tokenism and they just have to fill it with an Asian.... Hope I am wrong.

To late to accept this role - for his age -- need lots of stamina,

Jet lee maybe...

I hope he gets the role..Sang Woo can kick ass..and yeah cant wait to hear him speaking English..Just read some crazy rumors about his marriage..

Not a good idea, KSW has lost his appeal for me. He is too predictable, he's the same in every role in my opinion. I couldn't bear to watch Cinderella Man. Didn't see one single episode of CM. I don't like K stars going Hollywood, they lose that "something".

It is not only Asians who have limited roles in America but also Hispanics. I am sure there are other races that have been offered less than appealing roles but they do take it. It is a step closer for them to get recognized. Before this, most African Americans were mostly depicted as slaves but look how far they had come. Yes, Asians are sterotyped but then again so are many others.

We should be happy that they are getting some sort of job in America. If it helps them get more recognition and paved the way for better roles in the future for others, then I am all for it.

I can't believe you just called Drew Barrymore an A list star. She hasn't been in anything good since E.T. (Yeah - I said it.) Maybe those make-up ads because she looks cute in those, but not much else.

@13
I agree with you about KSW. I haven't watched CM either. On the other hand, the trailer for Ninja Assassin has been released. http://www.mtv.com/videos/movie-trailers/412608/ninja-assassin.jhtml
I don't know about you, but this man brings out my inner "cougar". MEOW!!!!

Sorry to say, but this is a bad idea. If you read the Green Hornet script the focus is not about the action but about the chemistry between Kato and Bret. The film is written as the Superbad of hero movies, and if this guy isn't GOOD at English, he likely won't get the flow or the humor of the dialogue.

It's amazing how money and power translates to "A" list. It should be defined by talent. I guess the list would be much smaller.

On the subject of the American film industry, why are we the ultimate platform? I enjoy watching foreign films (and dramas) that depict cultural differences. (many can be similar to mine) Why does eveything have to be adapted to fit American biases and presumed stereotypes?. hmm.... Do I detected some anger?......
As a hispanic, like the Asian community, I am tired of seeing us portrayed as gang members and side kicks. Please, Jennifer Lopez is not the only hispanic actress out there. (The movie "Selena" does not count. Never watched it. ugg! ) Edward James Olmos is the exception. Battlestar Galactica rocked!

I really think that the image of hero, beauty, and over all attractiveness is slowly changing. Give it time.

Sigh. So much ignorance and racism in this thread.

1) Michael Gondry is in absolutely no shape or form "big". ESotSM and Be Kind, Rewind? Good films, but by no means "big." The Wachowski brothers... THAT was big. At the time, they finished Matrix and V. NO ONE was bigger than the Wachowski's pre-Speed Racer whether you're a fan of them or not. Rain, arguably, had the "biggest" Hollywood debut opportunity with Speed Racer.

2) There are SO MANY MORE Asians and Asian-filled roles in Hollywood film and TV lately which are not simply "superheroes" or "ninja's with masks."

Could there be more? Absolutely. But when you've got a million ethnic groups fighting for a piece of that Hollywood pie, I think you all need to quite down, take a step back, and look at who's actually in films doing what. Perhaps watching more American media would help you all see who's doing what out there.

How many times have you seen any South Asian people in films unless they're terrorists? How about Eastern European unless they're drug dealers or hookers? Or here's a great one: NATIVE AMERICANS. Remember those people? The one's who actually LIVED in America before Europeans came over and slaughtered them? How many of those on TV and in films?

Compared to them, Asians are doing JUST FINE. Ironically, White people in Korean productions, however, are usually portrayed as one-line "business associates" or, you know, English teachers who rape young, naive Korean girls.

EXCELLENT.

3) Furthermore, I'm noticing a tread of Asian foreign talent (i.e. Korean, Japanese or Chinese native celebrities) taking roles in Hollywood blockbuster films, followed by fans COMPLAINING about the fact that they're playing a stereotypical Hollywood blockbuster film character in a stereotypical Hollywood blockbuster film.

"WAH! Byung-hun Lee is playing THE ONLY ASIAN G.I. JOE character in G.I. Joe because he's Asian! Its a ninja! WAH!"

Yeah, dude. It's G.I. Joe. What the f**k did you expect him to play? Destro, the Scottish arms dealer? Shipwreck; the Village People reject? Come on.

Sometimes I'm amazed people really are that phenomenally stupid.

A) The actor has EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO NOT ACCEPT THE ROLE IF THEY ARE FUNDAMENTALLY AGAINST THE PRINCIPLE OF THE CHARACTER. If an actor does not want to play "masked ninja master" or "amazing kung fu guy," GET THIS! They don't have to take the role! OH EM GEE! Furthermore, they can STILL make money because they're already stars in their own countries, so its not like these roles are being "taken away from them."

Look at Shohreh Aghdashloo. She was tired of the media always portraying Iranian people as terrorists, so she STOPPED GOING TO THOSE AUDITIONS. Crazy talk, I know, that actors might have their own judgement, but its been known to happen once or twice.

B) If the actor in question is taking a role in a blockbuster film, chances are they know they're going to play a blockbuster stereotype because, and I know this is shocking to some of you, but blockbuster films generally have "blockbuster character types." These are characters who are sort of seen or represented in every blockbuster movie. If I hear of an Asian actor being cast in a big budget remake of He-Man and the Master of the Universe, I'm pretty sure I'm not watching this film to see the actor perform Shakespearian tragedy.

So, maybe - just maybe - try to keep up with me on this... Maybe these actors are taking these roles 'cause they think the characters are fun to play and/or are interesting and/or they just like playing kick ass ninja dudes. Naw, that's insanity. Meanwhile, let me download the newest episode of Sageuk Drama X starring Sageuk Actor X who's been in 1500 other sageuk dramas before.

C) They have money. They can make connections. They want to be taken seriously playing a "real" "meaty" part, they're more than welcome to finance their own films. If NYC students can do it off 7 maxed out credit cards, I hardly think Asian superstars are hurting for cash if they wanted to make a low budget American indie movie to break in and be seen into the Hollywood market.

Please no Kwon Sang Woo! I hope they don't choose him. We're talking about filling the shoes of Bruce Lee here, and I was so disappointed when Stephen Chow dropped out. Kwon Sang Woo is not the answer! And I don't think Michael freakin' Gondry will make Kwon Sang Woo look good. It'll be like Rob Marshall who tried to make Zhang Ziyi look good in Memoirs of a Geisha but she was awful in that movie.

@ 25
YES!!!

The desire to enter the American market seems to make an actor overlook their own principles. "Just trying to my foot in the door". How may times does this happen in the real world, say.. at a job interview?

@27
Again, money and power = A list (credibility) duh!! ;)

My rant was to the general statements made in this thread, not to anyone specific.

That being said... No, I do not think Michael Gondry is "big". Interesting? Yes. Exciting? Yes. Creative? Yes. Big? No. A lot of cred? Two films does not "a lot of cred" make.

ESotSM was a cute film. Very good. Be Kind, Rewind? No so much. Full of flaws. So, the man is still unproven. Furthermore, directing The Green Hornet will be a challenge since - with it most likely being an action-comedy - Gondry has shown no prior film experience in the genre with either of his flicks.

As for music videos? So what? Antoine Fuqua. Phil Joanou. Both AMAZINGLY creative people who didn't do so well once they were directing films.

Movies are about where you live or experiences...How many American actors are working in Korea ? and what are they? Bad American soldiers, evil corporate bank managers, drug gangsters? It works both ways Americans use guns, boxing, Asians use Guns, marshal arts. stereotype works both ways, it is an easy out ! How many Italian are tired of "The Godfather" What about any person who is not a size 0

I guess Hollywood Movies are Big Time. . Lately Hollywood has been putting out some pretty blah movies...but inroads are being made in TV I think. . . " Bones" and "Crash" had Brian Tee in it, "The Mentalist " and "The Closer" has Asian actors in parts than could be played by any race or gender .

If you live on either coast in the US you are exposed to different experiences and sad but true everyone is different to someone.
I personally enjoy Asian Movies and TV, I lived on the West Coast and grew up around a wide variety of people so I don't understand why more diverse range of actors aren't being used. Very short-sighted on their part.I think Hollywood has dropped the ball big time.
I guess it all comes down to money crunching and Big number on opening day. Even major Star Movies have had a hard time.
The point is people need to go out and support a movie/actor they like. Number speak. Sad but true.

Frankly, I do not think KSW is such a great actor. Deep down, I also think he is lack of depth and very superficial in his grasping of the respective characters he was trying to potray.

YJT or Hyun Bin may be a better replacement for Stephen Chow. Gondry may be making a wrong bet if he finally chooses to co-operate with KSW.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michel_Gondry

Yes, yes. I've seen a number of them. Once again, if I wanted him to direct a music video, I know he's the man.

If I want him to direct a movie, we'll see how it goes. Two entirely different beasts, young lady.

Like asking a comic book writer to write a novel. Doesn't always work.

I’m commenting again? This is getting interesting. I would like to answer a lot of the questions why Asians are stereotype in Hollywood movies, and subsequently, give hope to all Koreans or Asians that think being cast as the assistant of the Green Hornet, or as a Ninja Assassin, or even as a Ninja in GIJOE is a bad thing.
First, my nationality is Cuban. I just wanted to clarified before I get raid with negative comments of being an arrogant, American... you get the point. I said on my last comment: “I think its kinda sad how Asians are pretty limited when it comes to acting roles here in the western part of the world. However, I can understand this, because like them, we are just as limited -perhaps even more- when appearing in their productions. How many westerners live in Asia (Korea, Japan, China) as opposed to the many Asians that live here in the US? And, lets not mention Brazil, which holds the largest Japanese community outside of Japan. There is also, Panama, Peru, some in Cuba… and the list goes on.”
If I may, I have to say that I have watched a considerable amount of Korean dramas, and because of that became more interested in Asian films. How is it that a westerner is portrayed in a Korean drama? As an arrogant American executive, who thinks he has the power over any other person just because he is rich and, well, American. Of course, this person will ultimately make a fool of himself; or rather, the lead character will make a fool of him. They can also play the gangster boss of some – either American, Russian, or Australian – organization, who helps the lead character become stronger; or the foolish boy who knows crap about Asian culture, and therefore is made a fool of him by the Koreans when they teach him bad words instead of helping him for real – which is totally fine by me, I had that same problem when I came to live in America and knew crap of English. This is how westerners can be portrayed, and the reason why, is because – as I said before – how many of us westerners actually live in Asia? Not many, and its known to all the world that we do not come from there either (I mean as a native or something of the sort) which means it would be VERY unrealistic if we were the be the lead characters of a typical Korean drama. For example: imagine Nicole Kidman playing the role of the female lead in Winter Sonata or Beautiful Days – as I compare the actress to her a lot because they both have that very elegant beauty and sophisticated air about them; - Or Sandra Bullock, playing the lead role in Kim Sam-Soon? Ahhh... NO.
Like it happens with us in Asian films and dramas, it happens with Asians in Hollywood films. It’s only natural because even when there is a lot of the new Asian generation born here in the U.S., we all know that either their parents, or grandparents, or great-grandparents came from Asia. And of course, the fact that they are minority (like Hispanics, African-Americans, Indians) contributes a lot to this as well. Minorities are stereotype in Hollywood A LOT, trust me. It has nothing to do with the actor being particularly Asian.
Another thing that we should all remember is that in Asian culture there is a lot of Ninja, Swords, Ass-kicking, etc. For example, a big, big, I mean HUGE part of the Japanese culture is the much-respected Samurai. What would it be for a Japanese to act on a film and not bring out his culture. While is true that the actor might be only cast as a “Japanese” is also true that the actor is in FACT Japanese, so… it goes without saying. I have to bring out films like Memoirs of a Geisha, which is an American film, and there is no swords held by the lead male character. “The Last Samurai” also Ken Watanabe (who btw, is an incredible actor) is a sword movie, but hello? THE LAST SAMURAI! And one film I did not mention in my last comment was (also by Watanabe-san) “Letters from Iwo-jima” which in fact is a film everyone – even if you don’t like it – has to bow to, considering the amazing and extraordinary director behind it, Clint Eastwood. Talking about my man Clint, he has been working with Asians for a while now. His latest movie “Gran Torino” is about a big Asian community here in the US (Chinese, Hmomg) and the troubles they go through, and how an American war veteran (Korean war) helps them, and how they help him.
That said, please, do not think that it is offensive to be stereotype in American films. Ok, it is, but only when they are clichés and portraying the flaws in a tawdry kind of way. Examples (and these are movies I love) “You’ve Got Mail” the Juan security guy that Tom Hanks’s character calls when they get stuck in the elevator; Tom says: “Juan call the super, and then 911… 9-1-1… the fire department, that’s right.” Also, when they are in the supermarket, and the register girl, Rose, is talked down by Tom’s character, in a very subtle way, but nonetheless talked down. “One Fine Day” How George Clooney has to hand the phone over to the security guy at the museum, because the maid (who happens to be Hispanic) seems kinda stupid. And the list goes on. Yeah! When is like this, I get offended. However, I have to love “You’ve Got Mail” is one of my favorite movies ever. (SIGH)
Now, to answer why its not bad at all to have those roles. I think I have already answered that in many ways. I said before: “to make it in Hollywood they have to start from the bottom; there are no questions about that. Even the American actors have to undergo a series of lousy roles before hitting the jackpot. So, my theory is: If the actor is actually good, and has what it takes. Soon he would be doing more than kicking and fighting. He might have to hold a sword forever (which I doubt) but he wont be the bad guy or the assistant forever.”

And this brings me to the end of my frenzy with a wish: I hope that all of you who think this is a bad thing, would be happy that AT LEAST they are getting in Hollywood considering they are not Americans (and by this I mean Asian-American) and that eventually they will make it big. I particularly think that for Lee Byung Hun, GIJOE is just a stepping-stone for greater films. I can not talk about KSW because even when he did had convincing acting in Bad Love, I just see him as a cry-baby, I haven’t seen him doing other things. Well I did watched “We are Dating Now” one of his early dramas, and I liked his character. However, he is not as versatile as LBH has shown to be, and therefore has not convince me of his many acting skills. I only see one, which is CRYING!! Lol Sorry to all the diehard fans of KSW, don’t kill me please.

As for the action roles, i would guess this is in part to limited english skills. in PART - sure, maybe Hollywood doesn't view Asians as romantic comedies leads. is this more racism or greed? i don't really know.

but why do we care about Hallyu actors being in Hollywood films? isn't part of the reason why we watch k-dramas and k-movies cause we think Hollywood and network TV puts out nothing but crap? at least, that's my feeling. Seth Rogan? um - not interested.

one the other hand, Eternal Sunshine - that was one bada$$ movie, definitely the best in recent memory. but I would attribute that mostly to the mind-blowing script by Kaufman, though the directing was good.

@This Is Me Posting
"If I want him to direct a movie, we’ll see how it goes. Two entirely different beasts, young lady."

It seems like you have a problem expressing yourself without being condescending. Good luck with that.

I can see why they'd be interested in KSW for a character like that. He was pretty good as a Bruce Lee wannabe sort of character in Maljukgeori janhoksa (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390205/ ). The only thing I'm worried about KSW working in Hollywood would be his English.

People!!!! I love LBH no doubt about it, I collect all his movies... and, well, we are not talking about LBH but KSW, lol. Anyway, understand that if you are not known in Hollywood (America) you are not going to be the lead of ANYTHING. So... get over it. This is a good thing for them, not bad. Its up to them, if it stays like this or if it goes to a bigger thing later on.

YAY! Not only a new Michel Gondry film but Kwon Sang-Woo!!!! Hopefully he won't be pushed aside as an 'elevated extra'....

sorry this is so random...but i'm cracking up at angry parsnip's name.. so funny! :D & i totally agree about hollywood being behind the times in recognizing the diversity already in our culture..i'm also a california/ west coast native & think it's odd that HW still thinks it has to stick to stereotypes when we live in a complete multi-culti melting pot here in LA...

marcel. . .
thanks!
lots of people and various business I deal with like it, the only person who doesn't is my x who hates it. boo hoo !

I lived in Laguna Beach and drove up to LA all the time... I miss it, good times !

I love this blog, City Hall is my new passion after Story of a Man

Thanks Javabeans !

I have to say, I'm surprised by your judgement on this one. First on KSW and second on The Green Hornet.

Let's look at The Green Hornet first:
1. Seth Rogen, the guy who plays a version of himself in every film, attempting his first non-comedic role. Fail.
2. Cameron Diaz, whose career pretty much died off about 5 years ago (voice roles notwithstanding). Fail.
3. Nicolas Cage, who's pretty much hit-or-miss these days. Semi-fail?
4. Michel Gondry. Sure he's relatively well-known and respected, but this is his first action film, and even the die-hardiest of fans would find reason to be worried. (And before you draw on his music video credentials, remember that it's one thing to create a 3 1/2 minute video and another to direct a full-length feature film. Just ask Kazuaki Kiriya and his mess of a movie Casshern.)

Now let's look at KSW. Aside from melting teenage girls' hearts by shedding tears, the guy lacks any depth or versatility in acting. Of course, that won't be such a problem given the requirements for the role. Here's the actual casting call:

[KATO] ALL ASIAN ETHNICITIES, Male, 20’s - early 40’s. Brit Reid’s manservant/chauffeur by day and Green Hornet’s martial arts-skilled sidekick by night. Actor doesn’t have to have Martial Arts experience.

http://spoilertv-movies.blogspot.com/2009/07/exclusive-green-hornet-casting-call.html

^ Yup, sounds like a great breakthrough role. At least Stephen Chow lent the project some credibility, but now that he's gone...

GOOD LUCK KSW!
I think JDG might have a very good chance entering Hollywood.
To me, Stephen Chow is a legend. He's a very good director and an actor. What was the name of his famous movie, Kung Fu....something? :P

I dunno who this director is but I will definitely check out Spotless Mind.

We have some really interesting discussions here which is a good thing, albeit a bit heated.

I grew up watching Green Hornet. May I say this is the only Hollywood thing in that era to have an interesting Asian role, in that Kato has quite a lot of lines to say (instead of just doing acrobat stuff) and his chemistry with his master is one of the watchable things of the series. This is also the series that springboarded Bruce Lee's fame. His deadpan look is simply memorable!

Will this remake work? Like any other projects, it depends on what perspective they will take, the script, and how they will portray the characters. All these seem to be unknown at this stage but having Seth Rogen and Cameron Diaz got me worried. The Christian Bale-Batman series are really good remakes, adding much depth that was lacking in the previous franchise . Perhaps it is too high a bar to meet. We just don't know but like to be surprised.

As far as KSW is concerned, I agree with aquala @ 26.

@mzpakipot

Kung Fu Hustle

Also, try watching The Science of Sleep.

Asians still have a long waste to go before they can be accepted in Hollywood like the other white actors but there are MANY MANY great Asian actors who didn't play a role of ninjas, kungfus, samurai, etc. How about Min-A in ER and the Indian lady (forgot her name but she was in Kick it like Beckham) and Kim Yu Jin in Lost?

Some complained that Asians don't get fair chances to make it to Hollywood and how they are being portrayed as a second class actor. How about all the white people who are shown in Korean dramas?? Korean dramas make the white people look so dumb, stiff, and no class. Sometimes I wonder where they found the white people to play the role in a Korean drama..ex-pats? tourists? ahahaha...

Does anyone know if Kwon Sang Woo speak decent English?