The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor: Difference between revisions
Adriano1995 (talk | contribs) No edit summary |
m Reverted edits by Adriano1995 (talk) to last version by Chatfecter |
||
Line 68: | Line 68: | ||
In January 2007, Universal announced that Stephen Sommers, director of the first two ''Mummy'' films, would not be attached to direct the third film. It was then announced that Universal entered talks with director [[Rob Cohen]] to take over directing duties from Sommers as the director of the third ''Mummy''.<ref>{{cite news | author=Gabriel Snyder | url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117957041.html?categoryid=13&cs=1 | title=Cohen in talks for 'Mummy 3' | publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] | date=[[2007-01-09]] | accessdate=2007-01-13 }}</ref> Later in the month, the story was revealed to center around [[Brendan Fraser]]'s and [[Rachel Weisz]]'s characters, as well as their now grown-up son. Negotiations with the actors were in progress at that time.<ref>{{cite news | author=Cindy White | url=http://www.scifi.com/scifiwire/index.php?category=0&id=39670 | title=Mummy 3 Spoilers Unwrapped | publisher=SciFi.com | date=[[2007-01-22]] | accessdate=2007-01-21 }}</ref> In February, casting began for the role of Alex O'Connell. In addition, [[John Hannah (actor)|John Hannah]] reprised his role as Jonathan.<ref name=sequel /> Also in February, director [[Rob Cohen]] mentioned that Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh would star in the film although the official confirmation was not published until May.<ref>{{cite news |author=Stax|url=http://movies.ign.com/articles/765/765359p1.html|title=Mummy 3 Exclusive - Character and casting scoops!|publisher=IGN|date=[[2007-02-16]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Michael Fleming|url=http://movies.ign.com/articles/765/765359p1.html|title=Li and Yeoh take "Mummy" roles |publisher=Variety|date=[[2007-05-04]]}}</ref> |
In January 2007, Universal announced that Stephen Sommers, director of the first two ''Mummy'' films, would not be attached to direct the third film. It was then announced that Universal entered talks with director [[Rob Cohen]] to take over directing duties from Sommers as the director of the third ''Mummy''.<ref>{{cite news | author=Gabriel Snyder | url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117957041.html?categoryid=13&cs=1 | title=Cohen in talks for 'Mummy 3' | publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] | date=[[2007-01-09]] | accessdate=2007-01-13 }}</ref> Later in the month, the story was revealed to center around [[Brendan Fraser]]'s and [[Rachel Weisz]]'s characters, as well as their now grown-up son. Negotiations with the actors were in progress at that time.<ref>{{cite news | author=Cindy White | url=http://www.scifi.com/scifiwire/index.php?category=0&id=39670 | title=Mummy 3 Spoilers Unwrapped | publisher=SciFi.com | date=[[2007-01-22]] | accessdate=2007-01-21 }}</ref> In February, casting began for the role of Alex O'Connell. In addition, [[John Hannah (actor)|John Hannah]] reprised his role as Jonathan.<ref name=sequel /> Also in February, director [[Rob Cohen]] mentioned that Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh would star in the film although the official confirmation was not published until May.<ref>{{cite news |author=Stax|url=http://movies.ign.com/articles/765/765359p1.html|title=Mummy 3 Exclusive - Character and casting scoops!|publisher=IGN|date=[[2007-02-16]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Michael Fleming|url=http://movies.ign.com/articles/765/765359p1.html|title=Li and Yeoh take "Mummy" roles |publisher=Variety|date=[[2007-05-04]]}}</ref> |
||
In April, Fraser re-joined the cast for ''The Mummy 3''.<ref>{{cite news|author=Diane Garrett|coauthors=Michael Fleming|url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117962923.html?categoryid=13&cs=1|title=Fraser returns for 'Mummy 3'|publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|date=[[2007-04-11]]|accessdate=2008-07-15 }}</ref> Weisz did not, citing "problems with the script."<ref>[http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Rachel-Weisz-Leaves-Mummy-3-4912.html Rachel Weisz Leaves Mummy 3<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Beth Hilton|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/a95411/weisz-criticised-for-mummy-decision.html |title=Weisz criticised for 'Mummy' decision | publisher=[[Digital Spy]]|date=[[2007-05-07]] | accessdate=2008-07-15 }}</ref> The film was shot in [[Montreal]]<ref>{{cite news|author=Patricia Bailey|title=Mummy moves back to Montreal|publisher=Playback|date=[[2007-02-27]]|url=http://www.playbackmag.com/articles/daily/20070227/unions.html|accessdate=2007-02-28}}</ref> and China. The film was reported to be titled ''The Mummy 3: Curse Of The Dragon''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bloody-disgusting.com/news/8663|title= New Title for Mummy 3|publisher=Bloody Disgusting|date=[[2007-04-20]]}}</ref> In April, Luke Ford was cast as Alex O'Connell,<ref>{{cite news | author=Michael Fleming|url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117964042.html?categoryid=13&cs=1 | title=Ford to star in third 'Mummy' | publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]| date=[[2007-04-30]]|accessdate=2007-05-13 }}</ref> and in May, [[Maria Bello]] was cast to replace Weisz in the role of Evelyn. Bello commented during an interview that the new "Evy" is different from the original "Evy". "She has the same name, but she's quite a different character," said Bello.<ref>{{cite news | author=Michael Fleming | url=http://www.variety.com/article/ |
In April, Fraser re-joined the cast for ''The Mummy 3''.<ref>{{cite news|author=Diane Garrett|coauthors=Michael Fleming|url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117962923.html?categoryid=13&cs=1|title=Fraser returns for 'Mummy 3'|publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|date=[[2007-04-11]]|accessdate=2008-07-15 }}</ref> Weisz did not, citing "problems with the script."<ref>[http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Rachel-Weisz-Leaves-Mummy-3-4912.html Rachel Weisz Leaves Mummy 3<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Beth Hilton|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/a95411/weisz-criticised-for-mummy-decision.html |title=Weisz criticised for 'Mummy' decision | publisher=[[Digital Spy]]|date=[[2007-05-07]] | accessdate=2008-07-15 }}</ref> The film was shot in [[Montreal]]<ref>{{cite news|author=Patricia Bailey|title=Mummy moves back to Montreal|publisher=Playback|date=[[2007-02-27]]|url=http://www.playbackmag.com/articles/daily/20070227/unions.html|accessdate=2007-02-28}}</ref> and China. The film was reported to be titled ''The Mummy 3: Curse Of The Dragon''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bloody-disgusting.com/news/8663|title= New Title for Mummy 3|publisher=Bloody Disgusting|date=[[2007-04-20]]}}</ref> In April, Luke Ford was cast as Alex O'Connell,<ref>{{cite news | author=Michael Fleming|url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117964042.html?categoryid=13&cs=1 | title=Ford to star in third 'Mummy' | publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]| date=[[2007-04-30]]|accessdate=2007-05-13 }}</ref> and in May, [[Maria Bello]] was cast to replace Weisz in the role of Evelyn. Bello commented during an interview that the new "Evy" is different from the original "Evy". "She has the same name, but she's quite a different character," said Bello.<ref>{{cite news | author=Michael Fleming | url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117964831.html?categoryid=13&cs=1 | title=Bello replaces Weisz in 'Mummy' | publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] | date=[[2007-05-13]] | accessdate=2007-05-13 }}</ref> At a news conference in [[Shanghai]], Bello told the audience that "Rob Cohen has 'created a new Evy ... in the first two Mummy's she was all actiony and lovely, but this Evy might be a little more ... forceful in terms of her martial art skills and shooting skills'".<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpKrL68x1Mw YouTube - The Mummy 3 - Tomb of the Dragon Emperor<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
||
=== |
===Filming=== |
||
Principal photography started at Mel’s Cite du Cinema in Montreal. There, the Eye of Shangri-la scenes were shot by production designer Nigel Phelps. The team then shot on the courtyard set of gateway to Shangri-la. The courtyard was dressed with fake snow, created by effects supervisor Bruce Steinheimer’s team.<ref name=el>[http://www.emanuellevy.com/article.php?articleID=10593 Mummy, The: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor—Shooting in China] Accessed on August 1, 08</ref> |
|||
Critical reaction to ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' has been mostly negative. As of now, it holds a 14% "Rotten" rating on [[Rotten Tomatoes]], based on 160 reviews.<ref name=rt>{{cite web |url=http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon_emperor/ |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] }}</ref> ''[[Metacritic]]'' reported, based on 33 reviews, an average rating of 31 out of 100.<ref name="metac">{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/film/titles/mummy3 |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Metacritic]] }}</ref> |
|||
At the ADF stage in the city, Phelps’s team created sets of the Terra Cotta mausoleum. Set decorator, Anne Kuljian designed 20 different statue heads that were sculpted by 3D Arts team and interchanged between shots. One soldier and horse statue was bought from China, and copies of it as well as "The Dragon Emperor" were made (Jet Li's statue was sculpted by Lucie Fournier, Tino Petronzio, and Nick Petronzio in a workshop in Montreal). Propmaster Kim Wai Chung supervised the making of the horses’ bridles and mausoleum ornaments in China. Meanwhile at Mel’s, the brutal battle between the Emperor and Rick was filmed, the first scene shot with [[Jet Li]].<ref name=el/><ref>Chung, Philip W. ([[2008-08-01]]). [http://www.asianweek.com/2008/08/01/jet-li-and-michelle-yeoh-from-tai-chi-master-to-the-mummy/ "Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh: From ‘Tai Chi Master’ to ‘The Mummy’"]. [[AsianWeek]]. Retrieved on [[2008-08-04]].</ref> |
|||
A positive review came from [[Roger Ebert]] of the ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'', who gave the film three stars out of four. Ebert remarked, "Now why did I like this movie? It was just plain dumb fun, is why." Ebert also states that it is the best in the series.<ref>[http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080730/REVIEWS/198380357 Review by Roger Ebert], Chicago Sun-Times </ref> Nathan Rabin of ''[[The Onion]]'''s [[The A.V. Club|A.V. Club]] also gave a positive review, who said the film "succeeds largely through sheer excess", albeit within a context that "plods along mechanically through its first hour."<ref>[http://www.avclub.com/content/cinema/the_mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon/print Review by Nathan Rabin], A.V. Club</ref> William Arnold of ''[[Seattle Post-Intelligencer]]'' gave a mildly positive review, saying that "anyone in the market for an overblown and totally mindless adventure-comedy will certainly get his money's worth."<ref>[http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/movies/373032_mummy01q.html Review by William Arnold], Seattle Post-Intelligencer </ref> |
|||
On October 15, 2007, the team moved to China. At Shanghai Studios, a set depicting the city in 1940's was used for the chase sequence and was shot in 3 weeks. Gen. Yang’s camp was filmed in a Ming village near Tian Mo. At the studio, Chinese cultural advisers aided Cohen in order to depict the Qin Dynasty language and ceremonies.<ref name=el/> The O'Connell family's drama scenes were shot in an Egyptian-themed nightclub suitably named "Imhotep's."<ref>[http://www.movieweb.com/news/69/24569.php The Mummy 3 Shanghai Production Video<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
|||
Dallas movie reviewer Casey C. Corpier said that the film was almost as enjoyable as the original and liked the fact that it delivered what it advertised. Kenneth Turan of the ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' said the film "has some good things [but] does not have enough of them to make the third time the charm."<ref>[http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-mummy1-2008aug01,0,5408481.story Review by Kenneth Turan], Los Angeles Times</ref> Ken Fox of ''[[TV Guide]]'' called the film "passable popcorn fare."<ref>[http://www.tvguide.com/movies/mummy-tomb-dragon/review/292488 Review by Ken Fox], TV Guide</ref> Jennie Punter of ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'' said the film is "kind of fun, but the twists and turns are all too familiar."<ref>[http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080801.wmummy01/BNStory/Entertainment/home Review by Jennie Punter], The Globe and Mail</ref> Michael Sragow of the ''[[Baltimore Sun]]'' said the film is "like an ''[[Indiana Jones]]'' movie without rhythm, wit or personality, just a desperate, headlong pace."<ref>[http://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/movies/reviews/bal-to.mummy01aug01,0,4673002.story Review by Michael Sragow], Baltimore Sun</ref> |
|||
The crew frequently had to halt in and near Shanghai when soldiers marched. The setting of desert battlefield was actually a training facility for the Chinese army that was leased.<ref>[http://www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2008/07/30/mummy_cast_aamp_crew_shared_battlegdickround 'Mummy' Cast & Crew Shared Battleground With Chinese Army - Starpulse Entertainment News Blog<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
|||
==References== |
|||
{{reflist|2}} |
|||
== |
===Effects=== |
||
The visual effects were done by two Los Angeles-based VFX houses. [[Rhythm and Hues Studios]] designed the [[yeti]]s and dragons, while [[Digital Domain]] handled the battle scenes with Jet Li's terracotta warriors. The pool of water resembling diamonds took Rhythm and Hues 11 months to complete.<ref>[http://www.straitstimes.com/Latest%2BNews/Singapore/STIStory_261700.html?vgnmr=1 LA-based S'porean creates magic on the silverscreen] by Stacey Chia ''The Straits Times''. Singapore Press Holdings. July 26, 2008</ref> The A.I. software [[Massive (software)|Massive]] which was used for the ''Lord of the Rings'' films was used to create the undead battle scenes. |
|||
* {{official|http://www.themummy.com}} |
|||
* [http://www.themummy3movie.co.uk/tomb/ Official microsite] |
|||
* {{imdb title|0859163}} |
|||
* {{Amg movie|388976}} |
|||
* {{mojo title|mummy3}} |
|||
* [http://www.thehollywoodnews.com/artman2/publish/movie_news/Four-clips-from-Mummy-Tomb-of-the-Dragon-Emperor-23220708.php ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' clips] |
|||
* [http://robcohenthemummy.com Rob Cohen's Mummy production blog] |
|||
* [http://michelleyeoh.info/Movie/mummy3.html Michelle Yeoh Web Theatre: The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://video.about.com/movies/Luke-Ford-on-The-Mummy-3.htm Luke Ford Interview on The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://celluloidnotes.today.com/2008/08/14/the-mummy-tomb-of-the-dragon-emperor/ The Mummy on celluloidnotes] |
|||
* [http://madeinatlantis.com/movies_central/2008/mummy_dragon_emperor_production_details.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor Production Notes] |
|||
Design company [[Imaginary Forces]] created the opening title sequence and end titles. IF designers also shot real paint splatters and brushstrokes. To portray an "accurate and historic China," they turned to calligrapher [[T.Z. Yuan]] for ink brush writing.<ref>[http://www.vfxworld.com/?sa=adv&code=3631a5a1&atype=news&id=24211 IF Captures Grandeur Of China In The Mummy Titles] ''VFX World''. Animation World Network. August 1, 2008</ref> |
|||
{{s-start}} |
|||
{{succession box |
|||
| before = ''[[The Dark Knight (film)|The Dark Knight]]'' |
|||
| title = [[List of 2008 box office numbeBatman at foreign box-office|publisher=[[Reuters]]|date=2008-08-04|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> It substantially outpaced comparable openings for 1999's ''The Mummy'' ($16.7 million) and 2001's ''The Mummy Returns'' ($21.5 million) in the same markets.<ref name="boxoffice">{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/world/news/e3ie6c7279c91e3a0c35c9d669bf181236e|title='Mummy' wraps up international boxoffice|publisher=''[[Hollywood Reporter]]''|date=2008-08-03|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> The film also set opening records for the distributor in Korea (drawing $13.3 million), Russia ($12.7 million), Spain ($6.7 million), and Thailand.<ref name="boxoffice"/> As of October 10, 2008, the film's domestic total stands at $102,491,776, with a much stronger international intake of $298,634,649. This brings its worldwide total to $401,126,425.<ref>[http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=mummy3.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor]</ref><ref>[http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117991426.html?categoryid=19&cs=1 Holdovers still high overseas]</ref> |
|||
=== |
===Music=== |
||
The bulk of the score in the film was composed by veteran composer [[Randy Edelman]]. The soundtrack features numerous different Chinese and Middle Eastern ethnic instruments along with classic British folklore. The soundtrack was released on July 29 by [[Varese Sarabande]] records, two days before the film's initial release. Composer [[John Debney]] provided additional re-scored material for most of the bigger action sequences. The Hollywood Studio Symphony recorded 30 minutes of Debney's music in a little under ten hours at the Fox Scoring Stage in July 2008, shortly before the film's release. The trailer prominently features the cues "Armada" by Two Steps From Hell and "DNA Reactor" by Pfeifer Broz. Music, the latter which also plays at the end of the [[Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix]] trailer. |
|||
Critical reaction to ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' has been mostly negative. As of now, it holds a 14% "Rotten" rating on [[Rotten Tomatoes]], based on 160 reviews.<ref name=rt>{{cite web |url=http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon_emperor/ |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] }}</ref> ''[[Metacritic]]'' reported, based on 33 reviews, an average rating of 31 out of 100.<ref name="metac">{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/film/titles/mummy3 |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Metacritic]] }}</ref> |
|||
==Release== |
|||
A positive review came from [[Roger Ebert]] of the ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'', who gave the film three stars out of four. Ebert remarked, "Now why did I like this movie? It was just plain dumb fun, is why." Ebert also states that it is the best in the series.<ref>[http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080730/REVIEWS/198380357 Review by Roger Ebert], Chicago Sun-Times </ref> Nathan Rabin of ''[[The Onion]]'''s [[The A.V. Club|A.V. Club]] also gave a positive review, who said the film "succeeds largely through sheer excess", albeit within a context that "plods along mechanically through its first hour."<ref>[http://www.avclub.com/content/cinema/the_mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon/print Review by Nathan Rabin], A.V. Club</ref> William Arnold of ''[[Seattle Post-Intelligencer]]'' gave a mildly positive review, saying that "anyone in the market for an overblown and totally mindless adventure-comedy will certainly get his money's worth."<ref>[http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/movies/373032_mummy01q.html Review by William Arnold], Seattle Post-Intelligencer </ref> |
|||
===Marketing=== |
|||
''The Mummy Movie Prequel: The Rise & Fall of Xango's Ax'', a comic book [[limited series]] by [[IDW Publishing]], was published to promote the film. The comic explores the relationship between Rick and his son Alex.<ref>{{cite news | author = Bill Radford | title = Starscream transformed into comic book | publisher = [[Detroit Free Press]] | date = [[2008-03-23]] | url = http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080323/ENT01/803230490/1036/BUSINESS01 | accessdate=2008-03-23}}</ref> |
|||
[[Sierra Entertainment]] made a [[The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (video game)|game version]] of ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' for [[Wii]], [[PlayStation 2]], and [[Nintendo DS]], which was released on July 22, 2008 in North America to mostly negative reviews.<ref>{{cite news | author = Sierra Entertainment | title = The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor to Rise This Sfummer. | publisher = [[Sierra Entertainment]] | date = [[2008-05-08]] | url = http://vug.com/en/home/news/product_news/050808_-_mummy_game.html | accessdate=2008-07-10}}</ref> [[Gameloft]] made [[The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (video game)|game version]] of ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' for [[mobile phones]].<ref>{{cite news | author = Cosmin Vasile | title = Gameloft Announces "The Mummy 3: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" Mobile Game - To be available this summer | publisher = Softpedia | date = 2008-05-08 | url = http://news.softpedia.com/news/Gameloft-Announces-039-The-Mummy-3-Tomb-of-the-Dragon-Emperor-039-Mobile-Game-84689.shtml | accessdate=2008-07-30}}</ref> |
|||
Dallas movie reviewer Casey C. Corpier said that the film was almost as enjoyable as the original and liked the fact that it delivered what it advertised. Kenneth Turan of the ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' said the film "has some good things [but] does not have enough of them to make the third time the charm."<ref>[http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-mummy1-2008aug01,0,5408481.story Review by Kenneth Turan], Los Angeles Times</ref> Ken Fox of ''[[TV Guide]]'' called the film "passable popcorn fare."<ref>[http://www.tvguide.com/movies/mummy-tomb-dragon/review/292488 Review by Ken Fox], TV Guide</ref> Jennie Punter of ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'' said the film is "kind of fun, but the twists and turns are all too familiar."<ref>[http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080801.wmummy01/BNStory/Entertainment/home Review by Jennie Punter], The Globe and Mail</ref> Michael Sragow of the ''[[Baltimore Sun]]'' said the film is "like an ''[[Indiana Jones]]'' movie without rhythm, wit or personality, just a desperate, headlong pace."<ref>[http://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/movies/reviews/bal-to.mummy01aug01,0,4673002.story Review by Michael Sragow], Baltimore Sun</ref> |
|||
===Box office performance=== |
|||
==References== |
|||
The film premiered in Los Angeles on July 27, 2008.<ref>[http://www.theusdaily.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=471066&type=Entertainment Batman may bow down to Mummy] By Carl DiOrio ''The US Daily'' Reuters. Date: July 31, 2008</ref> With it, the first official trailer of ''[[Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (film)|Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince]]'' was released.<ref>[http://www.snitchseeker.com/harry-potter-news/half-blood-prince-teaser-trailer-attached-mummy-3-a-57787/ Half-Blood Prince teaser trailer attached to The Mummy 3 - SnitchSeeker.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The film had a wide release of 3,760 theatres in North America on August 1, 2008.<!-- Note: This source is for "WIDE", main BOM page of film wont say wide --><ref>[http://www.boxofficemojo.com/alltime/widest.htm?page=WIDEST&p=.htm Movies With the Widest Openings at the Box Office<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
|||
{{reflist|2}} |
|||
The film was the top-grossing film the day it opened, earning $15.2 million (''[[The Dark Knight (film)|The Dark Knight]]'' was in second place with $12 million) on Friday. However, the film did not become number one overall in the box office on opening weekend, claiming only $40.4 million, which allowed ''[[The Dark Knight (film)|The Dark Knight]]'' to claim the top spot for the third week in a row with $42.6 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=2505&p=.htm|title='Dark Knight' Soars Past $400 Million|publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]]|date=2008-08-06|accessdate=2008-12-20}}</ref> |
|||
==External links== |
|||
* {{official|http://www.themummy.com}} |
|||
* [http://www.themummy3movie.co.uk/tomb/ Official microsite] |
|||
* {{imdb title|0859163}} |
|||
* {{Amg movie|388976}} |
|||
* {{mojo title|mummy3}} |
|||
* [http://www.thehollywoodnews.com/artman2/publish/movie_news/Four-clips-from-Mummy-Tomb-of-the-Dragon-Emperor-23220708.php ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' clips] |
|||
* [http://robcohenthemummy.com Rob Cohen's Mummy production blog] |
|||
* [http://michelleyeoh.info/Movie/mummy3.html Michelle Yeoh Web Theatre: The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://video.about.com/movies/Luke-Ford-on-The-Mummy-3.htm Luke Ford Interview on The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://celluloidnotes.today.com/2008/08/14/the-mummy-tomb-of-the-dragon-emperor/ The Mummy on celluloidnotes] |
|||
* [http://madeinatlantis.com/movies_central/2008/mummy_dragon_emperor_production_details.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor Production Notes] |
|||
{{s-start}} |
|||
{{succession box |
|||
| before = ''[[The Dark Knight (film)|The Dark Knight]]'' |
|||
| title = [[List of 2008 box office numbeBatman at foreign box-office|publisher=[[Reuters]]|date=2008-08-04|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> It substantially outpaced comparable openings for 1999's ''The Mummy'' ($16.7 million) and 2001's ''The Mummy Returns'' ($21.5 million) in the same markets.<ref name="boxoffice">{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/world/news/e3ie6c7279c91e3a0c35c9d669bf181236e|title='Mummy' wraps up international boxoffice|publisher=''[[Hollywood Reporter]]''|date=2008-08-03|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> The film also set opening records for the distributor in Korea (drawing $13.3 million), Russia ($12.7 million), Spain ($6.7 million), and Thailand.<ref name="boxoffice"/> As of October 10, 2008, the film's domestic total stands at $102,491,776, with a much stronger international intake of $298,634,649. This brings its worldwide total to $401,126,425.<ref>[http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=mummy3.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor]</ref><ref>[http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117991426.html?categoryid=19&cs=1 Holdovers still high overseas]</ref> |
|||
===Critical reception=== |
|||
Critical reaction to ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' has been mostly negative. As of now, it holds a 14% "Rotten" rating on [[Rotten Tomatoes]], based on 160 reviews.<ref name=rt>{{cite web |url=http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon_emperor/ |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] }}</ref> ''[[Metacritic]]'' reported, based on 33 reviews, an average rating of 31 out of 100.<ref name="metac">{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/film/titles/mummy3 |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Metacritic]] }}</ref> |
|||
A positive review came from [[Roger Ebert]] of the ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'', who gave the film three stars out of four. Ebert remarked, "Now why did I like this movie? It was just plain dumb fun, is why." Ebert also states that it is the best in the series.<ref>[http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080730/REVIEWS/198380357 Review by Roger Ebert], Chicago Sun-Times </ref> Nathan Rabin of ''[[The Onion]]'''s [[The A.V. Club|A.V. Club]] also gave a positive review, who said the film "succeeds largely through sheer excess", albeit within a context that "plods along mechanically through its first hour."<ref>[http://www.avclub.com/content/cinema/the_mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon/print Review by Nathan Rabin], A.V. Club</ref> William Arnold of ''[[Seattle Post-Intelligencer]]'' gave a mildly positive review, saying that "anyone in the market for an overblown and totally mindless adventure-comedy will certainly get his money's worth."<ref>[http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/movies/373032_mummy01q.html Review by William Arnold], Seattle Post-Intelligencer </ref> |
|||
Dallas movie reviewer Casey C. Corpier said that the film was almost as enjoyable as the original and liked the fact that it delivered what it advertised. Kenneth Turan of the ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' said the film "has some good things [but] does not have enough of them to make the third time the charm."<ref>[http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-mummy1-2008aug01,0,5408481.story Review by Kenneth Turan], Los Angeles Times</ref> Ken Fox of ''[[TV Guide]]'' called the film "passable popcorn fare."<ref>[http://www.tvguide.com/movies/mummy-tomb-dragon/review/292488 Review by Ken Fox], TV Guide</ref> Jennie Punter of ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'' said the film is "kind of fun, but the twists and turns are all too familiar."<ref>[http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080801.wmummy01/BNStory/Entertainment/home Review by Jennie Punter], The Globe and Mail</ref> Michael Sragow of the ''[[Baltimore Sun]]'' said the film is "like an ''[[Indiana Jones]]'' movie without rhythm, wit or personality, just a desperate, headlong pace."<ref>[http://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/movies/reviews/bal-to.mummy01aug01,0,4673002.story Review by Michael Sragow], Baltimore Sun</ref> |
|||
==References== |
|||
{{reflist|2}} |
|||
==External links== |
|||
* {{official|http://www.themummy.com}} |
|||
* [http://www.themummy3movie.co.uk/tomb/ Official microsite] |
|||
* {{imdb title|0859163}} |
|||
* {{Amg movie|388976}} |
|||
* {{mojo title|mummy3}} |
|||
* [http://www.thehollywoodnews.com/artman2/publish/movie_news/Four-clips-from-Mummy-Tomb-of-the-Dragon-Emperor-23220708.php ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' clips] |
|||
* [http://robcohenthemummy.com Rob Cohen's Mummy production blog] |
|||
* [http://michelleyeoh.info/Movie/mummy3.html Michelle Yeoh Web Theatre: The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://video.about.com/movies/Luke-Ford-on-The-Mummy-3.htm Luke Ford Interview on The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://celluloidnotes.today.com/2008/08/14/the-mummy-tomb-of-the-dragon-emperor/ The Mummy on celluloidnotes] |
|||
* [http://madeinatlantis.com/movies_central/2008/mummy_dragon_emperor_production_details.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor Production Notes] |
|||
{{s-start}} |
|||
{{succession box |
|||
| before = ''[[The Dark Knight (film)|The Dark Knight]]'' |
|||
| title = [[List of 2008 box office number-one films in the United Kingdom|Box office number-one films of 2008 (UK)]] |
|||
| years = August 10 |
|||
| after = ''The Dark Knight'' |
|||
}} |
|||
{{end}} |
|||
{{The Mummy}} |
|||
{{Rob Cohen}} |
|||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Mummy, The}} |
|||
[[Category:2000s adventure films]] |
|||
[[Category:2Batman at foreign box-office|publisher=[[Reuters]]|date=2008-08-04|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> It substantially outpaced comparable openings for 1999's ''The Mummy'' ($16.7 million) and 2001's ''The Mummy Returns'' ($21.5 million) in the same markets.<ref name="boxoffice">{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/world/news/e3ie6c7279c91e3a0c35c9d669bf181236e|title='Mummy' wraps up international boxoffice|publisher=''[[Hollywood Reporter]]''|date=2008-08-03|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> The film also set opening records for the distributor in Korea (drawing $13.3 million), Russia ($12.7 million), Spain ($6.7 million), and Thailand.<ref name="boxoffice"/> As of October 10, 2008, the film's domestic total stands at $102,491,776, with a much stronger international intake of $298,634,649. This brings its worldwide total to $401,126,425.<ref>[http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=mummy3.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor]</ref><ref>[http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117991426.html?categoryid=19&cs=1 Holdovers still high overseas]</ref> |
|||
===Critical reception=== |
|||
Critical reaction to ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' has been mostly negative. As of now, it holds a 14% "Rotten" rating on [[Rotten Tomatoes]], based on 160 reviews.<ref name=rt>{{cite web |url=http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon_emperor/ |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] }}</ref> ''[[Metacritic]]'' reported, based on 33 reviews, an average rating of 31 out of 100.<ref name="metac">{{cite web |url=http://www.metacritic.com/film/titles/mummy3 |title=The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor |author=[[Metacritic]] }}</ref> |
|||
A positive review came from [[Roger Ebert]] of the ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'', who gave the film three stars out of four. Ebert remarked, "Now why did I like this movie? It was just plain dumb fun, is why." Ebert also states that it is the best in the series.<ref>[http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080730/REVIEWS/198380357 Review by Roger Ebert], Chicago Sun-Times </ref> Nathan Rabin of ''[[The Onion]]'''s [[The A.V. Club|A.V. Club]] also gave a positive review, who said the film "succeeds largely through sheer excess", albeit within a context that "plods along mechanically through its first hour."<ref>[http://www.avclub.com/content/cinema/the_mummy_tomb_of_the_dragon/print Review by Nathan Rabin], A.V. Club</ref> William Arnold of ''[[Seattle Post-Intelligencer]]'' gave a mildly positive review, saying that "anyone in the market for an overblown and totally mindless adventure-comedy will certainly get his money's worth."<ref>[http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/movies/373032_mummy01q.html Review by William Arnold], Seattle Post-Intelligencer </ref> |
|||
Dallas movie reviewer Casey C. Corpier said that the film was almost as enjoyable as the original and liked the fact that it delivered what it advertised. Kenneth Turan of the ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' said the film "has some good things [but] does not have enough of them to make the third time the charm."<ref>[http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-mummy1-2008aug01,0,5408481.story Review by Kenneth Turan], Los Angeles Times</ref> Ken Fox of ''[[TV Guide]]'' called the film "passable popcorn fare."<ref>[http://www.tvguide.com/movies/mummy-tomb-dragon/review/292488 Review by Ken Fox], TV Guide</ref> Jennie Punter of ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'' said the film is "kind of fun, but the twists and turns are all too familiar."<ref>[http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080801.wmummy01/BNStory/Entertainment/home Review by Jennie Punter], The Globe and Mail</ref> Michael Sragow of the ''[[Baltimore Sun]]'' said the film is "like an ''[[Indiana Jones]]'' movie without rhythm, wit or personality, just a desperate, headlong pace."<ref>[http://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/movies/reviews/bal-to.mummy01aug01,0,4673002.story Review by Michael Sragow], Baltimore Sun</ref> |
|||
==References== |
|||
{{reflist|2}} |
|||
==External links== |
|||
* {{official|http://www.themummy.com}} |
|||
* [http://www.themummy3movie.co.uk/tomb/ Official microsite] |
|||
* {{imdb title|0859163}} |
|||
* {{Amg movie|388976}} |
|||
* {{mojo title|mummy3}} |
|||
* [http://www.thehollywoodnews.com/artman2/publish/movie_news/Four-clips-from-Mummy-Tomb-of-the-Dragon-Emperor-23220708.php ''The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor'' clips] |
|||
* [http://robcohenthemummy.com Rob Cohen's Mummy production blog] |
|||
* [http://michelleyeoh.info/Movie/mummy3.html Michelle Yeoh Web Theatre: The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://video.about.com/movies/Luke-Ford-on-The-Mummy-3.htm Luke Ford Interview on The Mummy 3] |
|||
* [http://celluloidnotes.today.com/2008/08/14/the-mummy-tomb-of-the-dragon-emperor/ The Mummy on celluloidnotes] |
|||
* [http://madeinatlantis.com/movies_central/2008/mummy_dragon_emperor_production_details.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor Production Notes] |
|||
{{s-start}} |
|||
{{succession box |
|||
| before = ''[[The Dark Knight (film)|The Dark Knight]]'' |
|||
| title = [[List of 2008 box office number-one films in the United Kingdom|Box office number-one films of 2008 (UK)]] |
|||
| years = August 10 |
|||
| after = ''The Dark Knight'' |
|||
}} |
|||
{{end}} |
|||
{{The Mummy}} |
|||
{{Rob Cohen}} |
|||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Mummy, The}} |
|||
[[Category:2000s adventure films]] |
|||
[[Category:2008 films]] |
|||
[[Category:American films]] |
|||
[[Category:English-language films]] |
|||
[[Category:Sequel films]] |
|||
[[Category:The Mummy films]] |
|||
[[Category:Universal Pictures films]] |
|||
[[Category:Films set in the 1940s]] |
|||
008 films]] |
|||
[[Category:American films]] |
|||
[[Category:English-language films]] |
|||
[[Category:Sequel films]] |
|||
[[Category:The Mummy films]] |
|||
[[Category:Universal Pictures films]] |
|||
[[Category:Films set in the 1940s]] |
|||
r-one films in the United Kingdom|Box office number-one films of 2008 (UK)]] |
|||
| years = August 10 |
|||
| after = ''The Dark Knight'' |
|||
}} |
|||
{{end}} |
|||
{{The Mummy}} |
|||
{{Rob Cohen}} |
|||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Mummy, The}} |
|||
[[Category:2000s adventure films]] |
|||
[[Category:2008 films]] |
|||
[[Category:American films]] |
|||
[[Category:English-language films]] |
|||
[[Category:Sequel films]] |
|||
[[Category:The Mummy films]] |
|||
[[Category:Universal Pictures films]] |
|||
[[Category:Films set in the 1940s]] |
|||
r-one films in the United Kingdom|Box office number-one films of 2008 (UK)]] |
|||
| years = August 10 |
|||
| after = ''The Dark Knight'' |
|||
}} |
|||
{{end}} |
|||
{{The Mummy}} |
|||
{{Rob Cohen}} |
|||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Mummy, The}} |
|||
[[Category:2000s adventure films]] |
|||
[[Category:2008 films]] |
|||
[[Category:American films]] |
|||
[[Category:English-language films]] |
|||
[[Category:Sequel films]] |
|||
[[Category:The Mummy films]] |
|||
[[Category:Universal Pictures films]] |
|||
[[Category:Films set in the 1940s]] |
|||
4831.html?categoryid=13&cs=1 | title=Bello replaces Weisz in 'Mummy' | publisher=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] | date=[[2007-05-13]] | accessdate=2007-05-13 }}</ref> At a news conference in [[Shanghai]], Bello told the audience that "Rob Cohen has 'created a new Evy ... in the first two Mummy's she was all actiony and lovely, but this Evy might be a little more ... forceful in terms of her martial art skills and shooting skills'".<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpKrL68x1Mw YouTube - The Mummy 3 - Tomb of the Dragon Emperor<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
|||
===Filming=== |
|||
Principal photography started at Mel’s Cite du Cinema in Montreal. There, the Eye of Shangri-la scenes were shot by production designer Nigel Phelps. The team then shot on the courtyard set of gateway to Shangri-la. The courtyard was dressed with fake snow, created by effects supervisor Bruce Steinheimer’s team.<ref name=el>[http://www.emanuellevy.com/article.php?articleID=10593 Mummy, The: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor—Shooting in China] Accessed on August 1, 08</ref> |
|||
At the ADF stage in the city, Phelps’s team created sets of the Terra Cotta mausoleum. Set decorator, Anne Kuljian designed 20 different statue heads that were sculpted by 3D Arts team and interchanged between shots. One soldier and horse statue was bought from China, and copies of it as well as "The Dragon Emperor" were made (Jet Li's statue was sculpted by Lucie Fournier, Tino Petronzio, and Nick Petronzio in a workshop in Montreal). Propmaster Kim Wai Chung supervised the making of the horses’ bridles and mausoleum ornaments in China. Meanwhile at Mel’s, the brutal battle between the Emperor and Rick was filmed, the first scene shot with [[Jet Li]].<ref name=el/><ref>Chung, Philip W. ([[2008-08-01]]). [http://www.asianweek.com/2008/08/01/jet-li-and-michelle-yeoh-from-tai-chi-master-to-the-mummy/ "Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh: From ‘Tai Chi Master’ to ‘The Mummy’"]. [[AsianWeek]]. Retrieved on [[2008-08-04]].</ref> |
|||
The film however scored a bigger success at the international box office where it opened at the first position in 26 of the 28 released markets over the weekend and grossed over $59.5 million in the three-day period.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSN0441444720080804|title="Mummy beats Batman at foreign box-office|publisher=[[Reuters]]|date=2008-08-04|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> It substantially outpaced comparable openings for 1999's ''The Mummy'' ($16.7 million) and 2001's ''The Mummy Returns'' ($21.5 million) in the same markets.<ref name="boxoffice">{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/world/news/e3ie6c7279c91e3a0c35c9d669bf181236e|title='Mummy' wraps up international boxoffice|publisher=''[[Hollywood Reporter]]''|date=2008-08-03|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> The film also set opening records for the distributor in Korea (drawing $13.3 million), Russia ($12.7 million), Spain ($6.7 million), and Thailand.<ref name="boxoffice"/> As of October 10, 2008, the film's domestic total stands at $102,491,776, with a much stronger international intake of $298,634,649. This brings its worldwide total to $401,126,425.<ref>[http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=mummy3.htm The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor]</ref><ref>[http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117991426.html?categoryid=19&cs=1 Holdovers still high overseas]</ref> |
|||
===Critical reception=== |
===Critical reception=== |
Revision as of 19:10, 2 July 2009
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor | |
---|---|
File:Dragon emperor ver4.jpg theatrical release poster | |
Directed by | Rob Cohen |
Written by | Alfred Gough Miles Millar |
Produced by | Stephen Sommers James Jack Bob Ducsay Sean Daniel |
Starring | Brendan Fraser Jet Li Maria Bello John Hannah Luke Ford Anthony Wong Chau-Sang Isabella Leong Liam Cunningham David Calder Russell Wong Michelle Yeoh |
Cinematography | Simon Duggan |
Edited by | Joel Negron Kelly Matsumoto |
Music by | Randy Edelman Additional: John Debney |
Distributed by | Universal Studios |
Release dates | August 1, Template:Fy (US) [1] August 8, 2008 (UK) September 11, 2008 (Aus) |
Running time | 112 minutes |
Countries | United States China |
Languages | Transclusion error: {{En}} is only for use in File namespace. Use {{lang-en}} or {{in lang|en}} instead., Mandarin |
Budget | $145 million |
Box office | Domestic $102,491,776 Foreign $298,634,649 Worldwide $401,128,639 |
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor[2] is a 2008 American adventure film that follows The Mummy and The Mummy Returns. It was released on August 1, 2008 in the United States. The film was directed by Rob Cohen, written by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, and produced by Stephen Sommers (director of the previous two installments), Bob Ducsay, Sean Daniel, and James Jacks. This film's plot was much lighter then the previous films and ignored the series' original formula (being a tribute to the original 1932 Universal horror film which involved mummies in Egypt).
The story has Rick O'Connell's (Brendan Fraser) son Alex (Luke Ford) discovering the tomb of The First Emperor of China, Emperor Han (Jet Li). This leads Rick and his wife Evelyn (Maria Bello) to travel to China, where an evil Chinese general causes the resurrection of The Emperor. The Emperor then tries to break an ancient curse set on him by the witch Zi Yuan (Michelle Yeoh) so he can use his magical powers to bring his army back to life to conquer the world.
While The Emperor character is actually based on Qin Shi Huang of The Qin Dynasty, and The First Emperor Of China, his dynasty in the film is fictionalized as being The Han Dynasty. [3] The film was poorly received by critics, which considered it an uninspired sequel with excessive special effects and a bad plot. Despite being poorly received by film critics, the film did well at the box office, grossing over $400 million worldwide.
Plot
Emperor Han, also known as the Dragon Emperor Han, is an ancient Chinese warlord (Jet Li) who conquers his enemies and becomes the first emperor of China. As his first act as Emperor, he orders the construction of the Great Wall Of China, burying his former enemies beneath it and cursing them to hold it up for all eternity. Emperor Han hears about of a witch, Zi Yuan (Michelle Yeoh), who is said to know the secret of immortality. Han sends his right-hand man, General Ming Guo (Russell Wong), to find Zi Yuan and bring her to the palace. Ming finds Zi Yuan and they fall in love, resulting in jealousy from the Emperor, who desired Zi Yuan for himself. After Zi Yuan supposedly casts the immortality spell on the Emperor in Sanskrit, a language he does not understand, he has Ming drawn and quartered and wounds Zi Yuan. She then reveals that she had foreseen this and has cast a spell on Emperor Han and his army, transforming them into the Terracotta Army, and permitting Zi Yuan to escape.
In 1946, 13 years after the events of The Mummy Returns, the now-Americanized Alex O'Connell (Ford), son to Rick (Brendan Fraser) and Evelyn (Maria Bello), locates Emperor Han's tomb with the financial backing of Professor Roger Wilson (David Calder), an archaeology professor. There, three assistants are killed by various traps (corrosive gases, arrows and a razor disk). Alex is then attacked by an unknown woman, but succeeds in bringing the Emperor's coffin to Shanghai. Meanwhile, the British government entrusts The O'Connells to take the Eye Of Shangri-La back to China as a good faith gesture to the Chinese. It is revealed that Wilson is in league with a nationalist paramilitary group led by General Yang (Anthony Wong Chau-Sang) and his second-in-command, Choi (Meng), who see the Emperor as the only one who can bring order and greatness back to China. The mysterious woman from the tomb attacks the mummified Emperor in his coffin, which turns out to be a decoy. By accident, the magical fluid within the Eye lands on the statue of the carriage driver, which is revealed to be the actual Emperor's body. He is quickly brought back to life, although he remains trapped in his terracotta form. Han accepts the service of Choi and Yang but kills Wilson. The woman from the excavation site tries to kill the Emperor with a magical dagger, the only weapon that can kill him, but is unsuccessful in doing so.
The woman reveals herself to the O'Connells as Lin (Isabella Leong), and agrees to help them. The group, along with Evelyn's brother Jonathan Carnahan (John Hannah), travel to a tower in the Himalayas that will reveal the path to Shangri-La when the Eye is placed on top of it. They hold off the soldiers under Yang with the help of three Himalayan Yeti summoned by Lin, but are ultimately unable to prevent The Emperor from learning the location of Shangri-La. He also tries to kill Alex to keep him from starting an avalanche by throwing a sword at him, but Rick jumps in the path of the sword, saving his son. The avalanche triggered by Alex allows them to reach Shangri-La before Han and meet with Zi Yuan. It is revealed that Lin is Zi Yuan's 2000-year-old daughter, rendered immortal due to the power of the magic waters of Shangri-La. The magical dagger which Lin carries is the same dagger that the Emperor used to try to kill Zi Yuan two thousand years ago, with a powerful curse placed on it by Zi Yuan herself. After Lin vouches for the O'Connell's, the ancient witch quickly heals Rick's wound. Zi Yuan also reveals that she would have died if she was not saved by a Yeti. Alex and Lin have grown attached to each other but Lin pushes the relationship away due to her immortality; after watching Zi Yuan mourn General Ming for centuries, she does not want to fall in love with Alex only to watch him grow old and die.
The Emperor attacks them in Shangri-La and takes the dagger, then bathes in the waters which restore his human form and youth, replenishes his powers, and giving him the ability to shapeshift. He transforms into a three-headed dragon, kidnaps Lin and flies to his tomb where he raises the Terracotta Army. The Emperor announces that once he leads his army across the Great Wall, an ancient spell will make them invulnerable.
The O'Connells and Zi Yuan pursue the Emperor to the Great Wall where Zi Yuan sacrifices her own and Lin's immortality to revive those buried beneath The Great Wall, creating an undead army of her own, lead by General Ming. The Army of the Dead, with aid from the group's modern weapons and limited air support from two World War II-era planes, fights the Terracotta Army while Zi Yuan battles the Emperor, sacrificing herself to steal back her cursed dagger. She is mortally wounded but succeeds in securing the dagger. Then Emperor Han transforms into a Chinese qilin and goes beneath the Great Wall in order to use his powers to draw Ming's army back underneath it, but is stopped by Alex. Rick and Alex tackle the Emperor with the dagger but are severely outmatched, not just by his magical powers but by his martial arts skills, and the dagger is broken. Rick challenges the Emperor to a fair fight and the Emperor chooses to fight Rick without powers, and Rick manages to plunge the broken dagger hilt into the Emperor's chest while Alex stabs him with the tip of the blade from behind, simultaneously piercing his heart from both sides and killing him. With The Emperor defeated, his army crumbles and turns to dust. Ming's army celebrates briefly before finally moving on to a peaceful afterlife.
The O'Connells return to Shanghai, where Alex and Lin fall in love again. Rick and Evelyn, and Alex and Lin, share kisses during a slow dance at a bar. Jonathan decides to move to Peru with the Eye of Shangri-La, which he had stolen himself, as there are no mummies in Peru. However, an ending comment appears, explaining that shortly after his arrival, a caption states that mummies were soon discovered in Peru.
Cast
- Brendan Fraser as Rick O'Connell: A retired adventurer, Alex's father, Evy's husband, and Jonathan's brother-in-law.
- Jet Li as Emperor Han: A warlord who desired immortality. Though he succeeds at becoming immortal he is also turned to stone. Once revived, he seeks to enslave the world.
- Maria Bello as Evelyn Carnahan-O'Connell: Rick's wife, also a retired adventurer/librarian turned novelist.
- John Hannah as Jonathan Carnahan: Evy's bumbling brother and Alex's uncle.
- Luke Ford as Alex O'Connell: Rick's and Evelyn's son, now twenty-one years old, who has a crush on Zi Yuan's daughter Lin.
- Anthony Wong Chau-Sang as General Yang: Han's supporter.
- Isabella Leong as Lin: Zi Yuan's daughter and protector of The Dragon Emperor's Tomb.
- Liam Cunningham as Mad Dog Maguire: A pilot who helps the O'Connells make their way to Tibet on their journey to Shangri-La.
- David Calder as Professor Roger Wilson: Alex's supporter in his expedition of The Dragon Emperor's Tomb, and a collaborator with General Yang and Choi, but killed by Han in the museum.
- Russell Wong as General Ming Guo: Han's first in command, Zi Yuan's lover, and Lin's father.
- Michelle Yeoh as Zi Yuan: An immortal "witch" whom Han sought out for the eternal life she possessed.
Production
In November 2001, director Stephen Sommers, who directed the previous Mummy films, said about directing a third Mummy film, "There's a demand for it, but most of the gang would only be up for it again if we could find a way to make it bigger and better."[4] In May 2004, Sommers expressed his doubts about having the energy to make a third Mummy, though the cast of previous films had expressed interest in returning.[5] In December 2005, a review of a script written by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar was about a Chinese mummy (China's first emperor, who wants to take over the world with his army of accursed warriors in 1940). The idea of the emperor and his army is based on the real-life Qin emperor Qin Shi Huang, who was buried amidst thousands of crafted and fired terra cotta soldiers, called the Terracotta Army, dated at latest to 210 BC. (Incidentally, the Terracotta Army is actually mentioned at the end of the novelization as something that will be discovered in the future, although its relation to the emperor's army, or rather how the destroyed army made it into the site is left unexplained.)[6]
Casting
In March 2006, actor Oded Fehr, who played Ardeth Bay in the first two Mummy movies, said Sommers had told him a third film was in development and being written, with only Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz's characters returning for the sequel.[7] The following September, director Joe Johnston was offered the helm by Universal Pictures, who hoped to start filming early in 2007.[8] Later in the month, Weisz expressed interest in reprising her role.[9]
In January 2007, Universal announced that Stephen Sommers, director of the first two Mummy films, would not be attached to direct the third film. It was then announced that Universal entered talks with director Rob Cohen to take over directing duties from Sommers as the director of the third Mummy.[10] Later in the month, the story was revealed to center around Brendan Fraser's and Rachel Weisz's characters, as well as their now grown-up son. Negotiations with the actors were in progress at that time.[11] In February, casting began for the role of Alex O'Connell. In addition, John Hannah reprised his role as Jonathan.[2] Also in February, director Rob Cohen mentioned that Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh would star in the film although the official confirmation was not published until May.[12][13]
In April, Fraser re-joined the cast for The Mummy 3.[14] Weisz did not, citing "problems with the script."[15][16] The film was shot in Montreal[17] and China. The film was reported to be titled The Mummy 3: Curse Of The Dragon.[18] In April, Luke Ford was cast as Alex O'Connell,[19] and in May, Maria Bello was cast to replace Weisz in the role of Evelyn. Bello commented during an interview that the new "Evy" is different from the original "Evy". "She has the same name, but she's quite a different character," said Bello.[20] At a news conference in Shanghai, Bello told the audience that "Rob Cohen has 'created a new Evy ... in the first two Mummy's she was all actiony and lovely, but this Evy might be a little more ... forceful in terms of her martial art skills and shooting skills'".[21]
Filming
Principal photography started at Mel’s Cite du Cinema in Montreal. There, the Eye of Shangri-la scenes were shot by production designer Nigel Phelps. The team then shot on the courtyard set of gateway to Shangri-la. The courtyard was dressed with fake snow, created by effects supervisor Bruce Steinheimer’s team.[22]
At the ADF stage in the city, Phelps’s team created sets of the Terra Cotta mausoleum. Set decorator, Anne Kuljian designed 20 different statue heads that were sculpted by 3D Arts team and interchanged between shots. One soldier and horse statue was bought from China, and copies of it as well as "The Dragon Emperor" were made (Jet Li's statue was sculpted by Lucie Fournier, Tino Petronzio, and Nick Petronzio in a workshop in Montreal). Propmaster Kim Wai Chung supervised the making of the horses’ bridles and mausoleum ornaments in China. Meanwhile at Mel’s, the brutal battle between the Emperor and Rick was filmed, the first scene shot with Jet Li.[22][23]
On October 15, 2007, the team moved to China. At Shanghai Studios, a set depicting the city in 1940's was used for the chase sequence and was shot in 3 weeks. Gen. Yang’s camp was filmed in a Ming village near Tian Mo. At the studio, Chinese cultural advisers aided Cohen in order to depict the Qin Dynasty language and ceremonies.[22] The O'Connell family's drama scenes were shot in an Egyptian-themed nightclub suitably named "Imhotep's."[24]
The crew frequently had to halt in and near Shanghai when soldiers marched. The setting of desert battlefield was actually a training facility for the Chinese army that was leased.[25]
Effects
The visual effects were done by two Los Angeles-based VFX houses. Rhythm and Hues Studios designed the yetis and dragons, while Digital Domain handled the battle scenes with Jet Li's terracotta warriors. The pool of water resembling diamonds took Rhythm and Hues 11 months to complete.[26] The A.I. software Massive which was used for the Lord of the Rings films was used to create the undead battle scenes.
Design company Imaginary Forces created the opening title sequence and end titles. IF designers also shot real paint splatters and brushstrokes. To portray an "accurate and historic China," they turned to calligrapher T.Z. Yuan for ink brush writing.[27]
Music
The bulk of the score in the film was composed by veteran composer Randy Edelman. The soundtrack features numerous different Chinese and Middle Eastern ethnic instruments along with classic British folklore. The soundtrack was released on July 29 by Varese Sarabande records, two days before the film's initial release. Composer John Debney provided additional re-scored material for most of the bigger action sequences. The Hollywood Studio Symphony recorded 30 minutes of Debney's music in a little under ten hours at the Fox Scoring Stage in July 2008, shortly before the film's release. The trailer prominently features the cues "Armada" by Two Steps From Hell and "DNA Reactor" by Pfeifer Broz. Music, the latter which also plays at the end of the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix trailer.
Release
Marketing
The Mummy Movie Prequel: The Rise & Fall of Xango's Ax, a comic book limited series by IDW Publishing, was published to promote the film. The comic explores the relationship between Rick and his son Alex.[28]
Sierra Entertainment made a game version of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor for Wii, PlayStation 2, and Nintendo DS, which was released on July 22, 2008 in North America to mostly negative reviews.[29] Gameloft made game version of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor for mobile phones.[30]
Box office performance
The film premiered in Los Angeles on July 27, 2008.[31] With it, the first official trailer of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince was released.[32] The film had a wide release of 3,760 theatres in North America on August 1, 2008.[33]
The film was the top-grossing film the day it opened, earning $15.2 million (The Dark Knight was in second place with $12 million) on Friday. However, the film did not become number one overall in the box office on opening weekend, claiming only $40.4 million, which allowed The Dark Knight to claim the top spot for the third week in a row with $42.6 million.[34]
The film however scored a bigger success at the international box office where it opened at the first position in 26 of the 28 released markets over the weekend and grossed over $59.5 million in the three-day period.[35] It substantially outpaced comparable openings for 1999's The Mummy ($16.7 million) and 2001's The Mummy Returns ($21.5 million) in the same markets.[36] The film also set opening records for the distributor in Korea (drawing $13.3 million), Russia ($12.7 million), Spain ($6.7 million), and Thailand.[36] As of October 10, 2008, the film's domestic total stands at $102,491,776, with a much stronger international intake of $298,634,649. This brings its worldwide total to $401,126,425.[37][38]
Critical reception
Critical reaction to The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor has been mostly negative. As of now, it holds a 14% "Rotten" rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 160 reviews.[39] Metacritic reported, based on 33 reviews, an average rating of 31 out of 100.[40]
A positive review came from Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times, who gave the film three stars out of four. Ebert remarked, "Now why did I like this movie? It was just plain dumb fun, is why." Ebert also states that it is the best in the series.[41] Nathan Rabin of The Onion's A.V. Club also gave a positive review, who said the film "succeeds largely through sheer excess", albeit within a context that "plods along mechanically through its first hour."[42] William Arnold of Seattle Post-Intelligencer gave a mildly positive review, saying that "anyone in the market for an overblown and totally mindless adventure-comedy will certainly get his money's worth."[43]
Dallas movie reviewer Casey C. Corpier said that the film was almost as enjoyable as the original and liked the fact that it delivered what it advertised. Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times said the film "has some good things [but] does not have enough of them to make the third time the charm."[44] Ken Fox of TV Guide called the film "passable popcorn fare."[45] Jennie Punter of The Globe and Mail said the film is "kind of fun, but the twists and turns are all too familiar."[46] Michael Sragow of the Baltimore Sun said the film is "like an Indiana Jones movie without rhythm, wit or personality, just a desperate, headlong pace."[47]
References
- ^ "The Mummy and Hellboy 2 Switch Dates". ComingSoon.net. 2007-07-27. Retrieved 2007-07-27.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ a b "The Mummy 3 Gets New Title and Date". Worst Previews. 2007-07-27. Retrieved 2007-07-27.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ "The curse of a franchise". The Daily Yomiuri. 2008-08-15.
- ^ Steve Head (2001-11-15). "New Scorpion King Pics and More!". IGN. Retrieved 2006-12-29.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help); Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ "Sommers Won't Helm Mummy 3". Sci Fi Wire. 2004-05-19. Retrieved 2006-12-29.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Michael Vaal (2005-12-03). "Exclusive Script Review: Mummy III Script". IESB.net. Retrieved 2006-12-29.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Clint Morris (2006-03-16). "Fehr talks The Mummy 3". Moviehole.net. Retrieved 2006-12-29.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Stax (2006-09-07). "Fraser Set For Mummy 3?". IGN.
{{cite news}}
:|access-date=
requires|url=
(help); Check date values in:|date=
(help); Unknown parameter|In September 2006, Universal considered Joe Johnston to direct this film instead of Jurassic Park IV but Johnston declined. url=
ignored (help) - ^ Paul Davidson (2006-09-11). "Weisz Wants Mummy III". IGN. Retrieved 2006-12-29.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Gabriel Snyder (2007-01-09). "Cohen in talks for 'Mummy 3'". Variety. Retrieved 2007-01-13.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Cindy White (2007-01-22). "Mummy 3 Spoilers Unwrapped". SciFi.com. Retrieved 2007-01-21.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Stax (2007-02-16). "Mummy 3 Exclusive - Character and casting scoops!". IGN.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Michael Fleming (2007-05-04). "Li and Yeoh take "Mummy" roles". Variety.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Diane Garrett (2007-04-11). "Fraser returns for 'Mummy 3'". Variety. Retrieved 2008-07-15.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help); Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Rachel Weisz Leaves Mummy 3
- ^ Beth Hilton (2007-05-07). "Weisz criticised for 'Mummy' decision". Digital Spy. Retrieved 2008-07-15.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Patricia Bailey (2007-02-27). "Mummy moves back to Montreal". Playback. Retrieved 2007-02-28.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ "New Title for Mummy 3". Bloody Disgusting. 2007-04-20.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Michael Fleming (2007-04-30). "Ford to star in third 'Mummy'". Variety. Retrieved 2007-05-13.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Michael Fleming (2007-05-13). "Bello replaces Weisz in 'Mummy'". Variety. Retrieved 2007-05-13.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ YouTube - The Mummy 3 - Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
- ^ a b c Mummy, The: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor—Shooting in China Accessed on August 1, 08
- ^ Chung, Philip W. (2008-08-01). "Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh: From ‘Tai Chi Master’ to ‘The Mummy’". AsianWeek. Retrieved on 2008-08-04.
- ^ The Mummy 3 Shanghai Production Video
- ^ 'Mummy' Cast & Crew Shared Battleground With Chinese Army - Starpulse Entertainment News Blog
- ^ LA-based S'porean creates magic on the silverscreen by Stacey Chia The Straits Times. Singapore Press Holdings. July 26, 2008
- ^ IF Captures Grandeur Of China In The Mummy Titles VFX World. Animation World Network. August 1, 2008
- ^ Bill Radford (2008-03-23). "Starscream transformed into comic book". Detroit Free Press. Retrieved 2008-03-23.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Sierra Entertainment (2008-05-08). "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor to Rise This Sfummer". Sierra Entertainment. Retrieved 2008-07-10.
{{cite news}}
: Check date values in:|date=
(help) - ^ Cosmin Vasile (2008-05-08). "Gameloft Announces "The Mummy 3: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" Mobile Game - To be available this summer". Softpedia. Retrieved 2008-07-30.
- ^ Batman may bow down to Mummy By Carl DiOrio The US Daily Reuters. Date: July 31, 2008
- ^ Half-Blood Prince teaser trailer attached to The Mummy 3 - SnitchSeeker.com
- ^ Movies With the Widest Openings at the Box Office
- ^ "'Dark Knight' Soars Past $400 Million". Box Office Mojo. 2008-08-06. Retrieved 2008-12-20.
- ^ ""Mummy beats Batman at foreign box-office". Reuters. 2008-08-04. Retrieved 2008-08-04.
- ^ a b "'Mummy' wraps up international boxoffice". Hollywood Reporter. 2008-08-03. Retrieved 2008-08-04.
{{cite web}}
: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
(help) - ^ The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
- ^ Holdovers still high overseas
- ^ Rotten Tomatoes. "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor".
- ^ Metacritic. "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor".
- ^ Review by Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times
- ^ Review by Nathan Rabin, A.V. Club
- ^ Review by William Arnold, Seattle Post-Intelligencer
- ^ Review by Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times
- ^ Review by Ken Fox, TV Guide
- ^ Review by Jennie Punter, The Globe and Mail
- ^ Review by Michael Sragow, Baltimore Sun
External links
- Official website
- Official microsite
- The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor at IMDb
- The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor at AllMovie
- The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor at Box Office Mojo
- The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor clips
- Rob Cohen's Mummy production blog
- Michelle Yeoh Web Theatre: The Mummy 3
- Luke Ford Interview on The Mummy 3
- The Mummy on celluloidnotes
- The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor Production Notes