'The Great Wall' Epic Film Faces Hollywood Controversy; Matt Damon Stars In A Chinese Film; Not Acceptable By The Chinese?

Matt Damon is one among the three Caucasian Private soldiers who braved China's "The Great Wall" with one goal in mind - to steal gunpowder. Their purpose turned the other way around by a circumstance that nobody expected to happen.

This epic story is brilliantly written by the iconic visual stylist and movie creator, Zhang Yimou.  For those that are not familiar with his work,  the 'House of Flying Daggers' is one of his masterpieces. The "The Great Wall" film shooting happened entirely in China.  With its $135 million dollar film budget, it is now tagged as China's most expensive globally acclaimed movie.  It is also considered as one of the greatest collaboration of giant filmmakers in China and US.

However, despite the noble story that "The Great Wall" features, it has received thousands of criticisms among netizens from its pilot trailer. Much to their disappointment the star is Matt Damon, who obviously belongs to another race. Some people are not happy that he is being tapped to play the lead role in a film that is deeply rooted in ancient China.  

The term 'Whitewashing' has been encountered once again, in this prototype.  It's a common protest for Hollywood films that has been running in ages.  The concern is, typecasting entertainers of the white race as lead stars, despite ethnicity and authenticity. 

Zhang, on the other hand, explained his side of the coin, telling "The Great Wall" followers not to over react.  His defended Matt's role in the film is essential, not being branded as a Chinese, but one of the five heroes that stood out in the story.  His presence cultivates the heart of the film. 

Also, according to the director, the film is about a monster battle, uncovering the mysteries of the "The Great Wall of China", hitting the screens in the US on February 17, 2017.