Anna May Wong Biopic Stars Venice Winner Xin Zhilei

A biopic chronicling the life of Anna May Wong, Hollywood's first Chinese-American star, is currently in pre-production. Titled "Sunset Boulevard - The Anna May Wong Story," the film will feature actress Xin Zhilei, the recipient of the Best Actress award at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, in the titular role.

Fundamental Films, based in Shanghai and Los Angeles, is financing and producing the English and Mandarin-language production. The film aims to depict Wong's journey from her modest beginnings in Los Angeles through her career, highlighting her struggle against pervasive stereotypes in Hollywood during the 1920s and 1930s.

Wong starred in iconic films such as "The Thief Of Bagdad" and "Shanghai Express." Xin Zhilei, celebrated for her role in "The Sun Rises On Us All," has a career that Fundamental Films founders noted mirrors Wong's own ascent from humble circumstances to international acclaim.

The production will recreate the lavish sets of Hollywood's Golden Age. Fundamental Films is presenting the project to potential buyers at Cannes, emphasizing their commitment to championing Chinese stories and culture on a global scale.