Just two days into casting for "Dream of Red Mansions", its website has received a hundred thousand hits. Pre-production for the TV series began with a star search, across the Chinese speaking world.
This latest remake of the literary classic has been the talk of town, still months before shooting. The new version promises to be a slick, pricey production.
Beijing resident said:"I hope the upcoming version will be better."
"There's a set image of the TV series in our minds. I don't think a new version can uproot it."
"It's been a long time since the first version. The book is a such a classic. It's well worth a second shot."
Producers have denied they acted on impulse. Their decision came after a two-year's consideration.
Beijing TV official said:"Costumes and makeup are world's away from where they stood 20 years ago. From a production perspective, there's ample room to explore."
Fueled by enthusiasm for the old TV series, and guided by Red Mansions knowledge, fans are doing Internet auditions. On the official website, more than 16,000 people have signed up for 108 roles. While the leads, Lin Daiyu and Jia Baoyu, are most-coveted, other parts like Shi Xiangyun and Xue Baochai are also highly sought.
"Dream of Red Mansions" is an intricate story about the decline of an aristocratic family. It's a study of feudal society, rich in subtlety and innuendo.
Beijing film academy student said:"I hope they cast actors for their talent, rather than good looks."
"When they cast the TV series, they should be loyal to the book."
Live auditions begin in October. And candidates go through gruelling competition till Spring Festival. Producers are also scouring performing arts schools for actors. Expert and public opinion will be taken into account during casting.
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