ussell Wong doesn't need a menu at a quiet Japanese restaurant he
frequents on 89th Street in New York. He orders "the usual"--maguro,
hamachi, anago, miso and Perrier. After ordering Wong lights up a cigarette.
Wong will soon be off to Hong Kong to film China Cry, based on the
true story of Nora Lam (to be played by Julia Nickson). Produced by
Parakletos Productions, China Cry
Wong is also a contender for the lead in China Night, a CBS Movie of
the Week starring Melissa Gilbert (Little House on the Prairie). She
falls in love with a Chinese student in Berkeley in 1977. The film explores the seeds of Tiananmen Square. Ultimately, the part goes to another Asian American
hunk named Robin Shou.
Six-foot tall and leading-man handsome, Wong is one of the current
generation's most naturally gifted actors. He has appeared in many feature
films, TV episodes, music videos and commercials, but his acting career didn't
catch fire until recently. He caught our eyes in an episode of 21 Jump
Street, then confirmed his heartthrob status with his starring role in
Eat a Bowl of Tea in which he plays a young Chinese American who
returns to China to find a bride. Wayne Wang directed. Wong considers the
film his best working experiences. Some have remarked on the lack of
chemistry between Wong and the bride played by Cora Miao and speculate
that this may be due to the fact that Miao is the real life wife of director Wang. There was considerably more chemistry between Wong and Jessica Harper who played the American prostitute. Wong admits that working with Harper was an enjoyable experience.
CONTINUED BELOW
Wong also appeared in China Girl, Tai-Pan, and numerous TV shows
including 21 Jump Street, As the World Turns, Harry's Hong Kong, and
The Equalizer. On music videos he has danced with the best: David
Bowie, Kim Carnes, Donna Summer and Denise Williams. He's also danced
with the Westside Ballet Co, practices martial arts and sings.
More recently his memorable roles include a brutal womanizer in The Joy
Luck Club and title role in the Vanishing Son TV series. As recently
as two years ago, Wong didn't make enough from acting to support himself
and had to supplement his income by dancing (ballet and music
videos) and calling on his amateur photographic skills to do occasional
promotional headshots for fellow dancers.
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