Metrodome Distribution has acquired all UK rights for two new Chinese films, The Assembly and The Banquet. Both are directed by Feng Xiaogang.

The Assembly has already taken more than $30m at the Chinese box office. It is based on the true story of one man's journey during the 1948 Chinese Civil War.

The Banquet stars Zhang Ziyi in a drama loosely adapted from Shakespeare's Hamlet, set in 10th century China.

Tom Stewart, Metrodome's general manager home entertainment, started discussions for the films at AFM 2007. Acquisitions Manager Kate Edwards then brokered the deal together with Stewart, Metrodome's CEO Peter Urie and Felice Bee from Huayi Bros. Pictures.

Sara Frain, Metrodome's general manager theatrical will oversee the films theatrical release campaign.

Huayi Bros' Bee said:'We are delighted that an innovative company such as Metrodome will be releasing both The Assembly and The Banquet in the UK. We look forward to working with them and cementing what we hope will be an ongoing relationship.'

Metrodome plan to release The Assembly theatrically in spring 2008 and The Banquet later in 2008.

Metrodome's 2008 slate also includes Stuart Cooper's Overlord and Robert Sarkies' Out Of The Blue.

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