Production for "Pacific Rim: Maelstrom" is in full swing, and the movie is adding Chinese actor Zhang Jin to its cast. Jin's inclusion alongside other Chinese actors is fueling a lot of excitement for the film.
Jin joins other Chinese stars in "Pacific Rim 2," including Wesley Wong, Lily Ji, Qian Yong Chen, Chen Zitong, Lang Yingying and Xiao Yang. "We are very excited that we have such amazing Chinese talent joining us on 'Pacific Rim' our new story has a strong connection to China and this great Chinese cast will help us bring it to life," Variety quoted Dr. Jack Gao of the Beijing Wanda Cultural Industry Group as saying about Jin's casting.
The 42-year-old actor has several big titles to his credit, including "The Grandmaster," "Ip Man 3" and "The Man From Macau."
Given the fact that the first "Pacific Rim" movie performed well in China, where it earned $112 million of its overall $411 million worldwide box office earnings, it is less of a surprise that the movie is making China a key element in its sophomore film.
"Pacific Rim 2" is currently filming in Australia and several photos of John Boyega have surfaced on the internet. The "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" fame is the lead star of "Pacific Rim: Maelstrom," where he plays the role of the son of Idris Elba's character.
Although not much about the "Pacific Rim 2" plot has been revealed, it has been reported that the sequel will take place after the defeat of the Kaijus and how the world is dealing without them as a big threat. However, this does not necessarily mean that the fight between the human race and the Kaiju is over. The monstrous creatures will return in the sequel and more about their history and origin will be unveiled.
Meanwhile, Steven S. DeKnight is taking over the director's chair for "Pacific Rim: Malestrom," while Guillermo del Toro, Thomas Tull, Mary Parent and Jon Jashni are producing. "It's a new team, a great team," actor Levi Meaden told Comicbook.com. "They're taking it in a whole new direction and there's a lot of stuff going on. I'm just excited to get out there, see the set, see what we're dealing with."
"Pacific Rim: Maelstrom" will premiere on Feb. 23, 2018.