zhang.jpgSexy young Chinese star of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Memoirs of a Geisha, Zhang Ziyi, is taking a leaf from a brutal killer and cannibal. As preparation for her new role in The Horsemen, the ambitious and pretty actress is studying Anthony Hopkin’s famous portrayal of the enigmatic and sexy man-eating genius Hannibal Lecter.

What has she learnt? Besides eating men alive which she already has a talent for, she also picks up his slow, careful and deliberate way of talking. Lecter tortures his victims psychologically before devouring them alive. Zhang also watched movies of other serial killers and psychopaths to prepare for her role. Her interpretation of the character in The Horsemen is sure to have the exciting elements of sexuality, Chinese cultural biases and the passion of a psychologically woman. Let’s just hope her sexy body, rounded breasts, small waist and fair skin do not steam up the scenes too much to detract from her acting abilities. Hopkins would probably say to her that control and refrain are the two key elements that make a killer cruel, crazy and frightening. It would be interesting to see a female version of Hannibal Lecter that strikes fear, admiration and excitement in viewers’ hearts.