Who's in
Korean blitz at Asian Film Awards
South Korean actor Song Kang-ho hailed Asia's filmmakers after he and his compatriots blitzed Hong Kong's inaugural Asian Film Awards, aimed at showcasing the depth of talent in the region.
At a glitzy, harbor-side ceremony in Hong Kong, Song won best actor for his performance in South Korea's smash-hit monster movie The Host, which swept the awards, winning four of the five nominations, including best picture. A thriller, The Host tells the story of a mutant monster spawned by toxic waste released from a US military morgue.
"I'm really honored to receive this award and be around such great Asian filmmakers," said 40-year-old Song who plays a slow-witted man fighting to rescue his daughter abducted by the monster.
Spears gets grip on life after rehab
Britney Spears will be leaving rehab this week, according to reports.
The troubled pop star checked into the Promises treatment center in Malibu, California, last month, and now counselors claim she's ready to take on the world again after battling her substance-abuse demons.
Sources tell TMZ.com the rehab stay has helped the pop star get a grip on her life.
One claims she had an "amazing meeting" with her estranged husband, Kevin Federline, over the weekend, and has promised to deal with their custody issues over sons Sean Preston and Jayden James amicably.
Aussie notes for London Chicago
Australian singer Tina Arena is to star as Roxie Hart in the London version of the musical Chicago for five weeks from April 2, the show's producers said on Tuesday.
Arena, known for hits including Chains and Burn, has already starred in Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Cabaret in her home country.
Hart was played by US actress Renee Zellweger in the 2002 film version of the classic show, written by John Kander and Fred Ebb and choreographed by Bob Fosse.
In November, Chicago will celebrate its 10-year anniversary on the London stage. The show is also currently playing in New York.
Agencies-China Daily
(China Daily 03/22/2007 page18)
