BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA actor joins R.I.P.D. cast

James Hong has joined the cast of R.I.P.D. THR reports that veteran Asian-American will star opposite Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges in the film directed by Robert Schwentke. Hong is best known for starring in Blade Runner and Big Trouble in Little China, and recently did voicework on Kung Fu Panda 2.

The film is based on the Peter Lenkov comic that centers on a police force comprised of undead officers. Reynolds will play Nick Cruz, a recently slain police officer who joins the force and tries to find his own murderer. Bridges will play Roy, a veteran member of the force. The script was adapted by Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi, along with Neil H. Moritz. The film is being developed by Dark Horse Entertainment and is being produced by Mike Richardson, Ryan Reynolds and Jonathon Komack Martin. The supporting cast also incldues Kevin Bacon, Stephanie Szostak, Mary-Louise Parker and Marisa Miller. 

Hong will play “Grandpa Chen,” Reynolds’ avatar, the form humans see when Reynolds’ character goes about his business. He has starred in over 500 films since beginning his career in the mid-1950s. The actor will next be seen in the Jason Statham action movie Safe. R.I.P.D. is set for release on June 28, 2013.

Hong was great in Big Trouble in Little China and he has a very distinct voice so this will be a cool role for him. What are your thoughts on this news?