Pianist Lang Lang plays himself in the 3D film The Flying Machine. Provided to China Daily

Star pianist Lang Lang had his big screen debut in 2008, in a documentary on his life and career. The hardships Lang underwent, as he grew from a boy with a love for playing the piano to an internationally acclaimed artist, moved many to tears.

The 28-year-old musician's latest film is more lighthearted and magical. In The Flying Machine, a 3D film that combines animation and live action, Lang plays himself, a successful pianist, who whisks away an English mother and her children on a magic piano to experience Polish pianist Chopin's life, and discover the meaning of home.

The film, part of the worldwide celebration of the 200th anniversary of Chopin's birthday, is co-produced by China's Bona Film Group and Poland's Oscar-winning BreakThru Films. Hollywood actress Heather Graham plays the mother.

The pianist said it was an inspiring experience to take part in the crossover project.

"I started by watching Tom and Jerry, to get into classical music and to get into piano playing. Animation and music is always connected so closely," Lang was saying as quoted.

"I must say this has been an enormous pleasure for me to be part of this film and to share Chopin's music with everyone across the world."

Hugh Welchman, the film's producer who created Peter and the Wolf, winner of an Oscar for the Best Short Animation, said he hopes the film will push the boundaries of family animation and great music.

"The combination of cutting-edge live action, amazing computer generated visual effects, state-of-the-art 3D technology together with Chopin's timeless composing and Lang Lang's kinetic piano playing will create a truly moving and entertaining film for families of all ages," Welchman was saying as quoted.

In addition, filmmakers from across the world will direct 12 short films featuring Chopin's 12 etudes, also played by Lang. Eleven of them are now in production, all with different storylines. Some are in 3D and a Chinese filmmaker will direct the final one.

Welchman will host the preview screening of the film at the Royal Festival Hall on Feb 12 and 13, 2011, in London. Later that month the film will have a grand premiere ceremony at Beijing's Forbidden City Concert Hall, at which Lang will play the soundtrack, along with the film's screening.

China Daily

(China Daily 01/12/2011 page18)