Donnie Yen returns for "Ip Man 3"
28 Mar – After much 'will he' and 'won't he', Hong Kong actor Donnie Yen recently announced that he will make his comeback as the iconic martial artist, Ip Man for the third instalment of the martial arts franchise.
According to Mingpao, speaking to the media at the press conference held on 25 March with Pegasus Entertainment boss, Raymond Wong, Donnie stated, "After four years [of hiatus], I will again play the role of Ip Man at the end of the year."
Donnie admitted that he was reluctant to play the role at first, thinking that he has already built a good image of the character and should try other roles for a change.
"But no matter where I go, nobody knows me as Donnie Yen. They call me Ip Man. So I decided to play the role one more time to fulfil everyone's wishes," said Donnie, who hinted that it may be his last time reprising the role.
When asked about rumours saying that he charged RMB 30 million (approx. USD 4.8 million) to star in the movie, Donnie responded, "I have always charged a cheaper rate. Don't talk about salaries. I am doing this for friendship's sake."
Meanwhile, Raymond Wong revealed that the movie will receive 3D treatment and will be helmed by its original director, Wilson Yip.