The status of Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing, who has disappeared from public view amid speculation that she might be under government control in relation to a tax-evasion matter, could have a widespread impact on everything from film projects to media companies and brand relationships. In some cases, it already has…

China will launch a tax evasion investigation into the country’s film and TV industries, the bureau for taxation said in an official statement posted to its website Sunday. The crackdown was prompted after a row erupted between Chinese TV presenter Cui Yongyuan and superstar actress Fan Bingbing, star of X-Men: Days of…

EXCLUSIVE: Buyers have been ravenous for FilmNation’s starry spy-sisterhood thriller 355, which has sold out internationally, including a string of multi-million dollar deals. Following the big deal for France with SND last week, major international pacts have now closed with Tele Munchen Group for Germany, Universal…

EXCLUSIVE: Beijing-based Huayi Brothers International just landed Greater Chinese distribution rights to 355. Deal is near the $20M+ paid for the US rights yesterday by Universal Pictures. Simon Kinberg is directing the Theresa Rebeck-scripted film that stars Jessica Chastain, Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz, Fan…

EXCLUSIVE: Universal has beaten out multiple bidders to take U.S. rights on 355, the Simon Kinberg-directed global spy thriller franchise that will star Jessica Chastain, Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz, Fan Bingbing and Lupita Nyong'o. Deal is north of $20 million, with the promise of a wide release. Now, other…