Hong Kong-based Filmko Holdings is producing a 3D period drama adapted from Spanish classic Don Quixote, to be directed by Chinese filmmaker Agan.

The $10m project is one of a growing number of 3D productions from Asia and the first to have a period setting. China’s first 3D film was contemporary youth musical China Idol Boys, directed by Hong Kong’s Lam Wah-chuen.

The production team is currently shooting a three-minute trailer of Don Quixote (working title), with 3D cameras and technical support from US and German 3D production professionals. 

Filmko Holdings director Alex Wong said shooting would start in mid-September. The story will have a Chinese setting in which Don Quixote will be a Chinese martial arts fighter with an idealistic take on justice and chivalry.

The cast of the film is yet to be announced. However, it is understood that three comedians Guo Tao, Huang Bo and Liu Hua are likely to be recruited as lead actors.

Filmko has signed a six-film deal with Agan. “We see Agan as one of the most commercially valuable filmmakers in China,” says Wong. The filmmaker’s previous films have made a total of $35.7m (RMB250m) at the box office, which ranks him as the fourth most bankable Chinese director behind Feng Xiaogang, Zhang Yimou and Chen Kaige.

Filmko is also producing a Taiwanese romantic comedy Kingfisher, directed by Kuang Sheng and starring Bianca Bai, Enson Chang and Annie Liu, and preparing a Taiwan-mainland co-production with a crime theme.

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