John Cusack Stars in Chinese Cryptography Thriller ‘Decoded’ Set for Global Release
CMC Pictures, the Chinese studio known for the “The Meg” franchise, has announced the global release of its cryptography thriller, “Decoded,” starring John Cusack.
The film is set to hit Chinese theaters on Saturday, with an international rollout planned for the end of August. CMC Pictures will distribute the film directly in a few territories and serve as the sales agent in others.
Directed by Chen Sicheng, a prominent figure in Chinese cinema, “Decoded” features a screenplay co-written by Chen and Christopher MacBride, known for “Flashback” and “The Conspiracy.” The film is adapted from a novel by Mai Jia, a Mao Dun Literature Prize-winning novelist.
“Decoded” is set in the 1940s and follows Rong Jinzhen, played by Liu Haoran, a young man with autism who possesses an extraordinary talent for mathematics. His skills attract the attention of his professor, played by John Cusack, who sets a challenging mathematical problem for him.
As a result, Rong is forced to abandon his academic pursuits and is recruited as a codebreaker and spy. The story spans from 1944 to 1964, offering a narrative style that has drawn comparisons to the works of Christopher Nolan.
Shot entirely on Imax-certified cameras, “Decoded” promises a visually dynamic experience. Early previews of the film have already generated $8.03 million, indicating strong audience interest ahead of its official release. The film aims to challenge the current box office leader, “Successor,” over the weekend.
The cast of “Decoded” includes several well-known Chinese actors. Veteran actor Chen Daoming, known for “Coming Home” and “Aftershock,” plays a significant role, along with Daniel Wu, recognized for “Into the Badlands” and “Westworld,” and Yu Feihong.
The supporting cast features Ren Luyao, Chen Yusi, Wang Yutian, Zhou You, and Zhu Zhu.
Production for “Decoded” is credited to CMC Pictures and Maoyan Weiying Media. Chen Sicheng, who has previously directed the successful “Detective Chinatown” series and produced last summer’s hit “Lost in the Stars,” described “Decoded” as his creative peak.
He acknowledged the influence of the literary source material, saying he is “standing on the shoulders of literary giants.”
Chen expressed his interest in how individual destinies are shaped by the era in which they live. He stated, “‘Decoded’ portrays life as a unique cipher, awaiting decryption.”
He emphasized that the film was made with a relatively limited budget, yet aims to rival Hollywood blockbusters in terms of audio-visual experience and overall quality. Chen said, “We want to break the rule that such big movies can only be made by Hollywood.”
John Cusack joins a list of Hollywood stars who have taken significant roles in Chinese films. Notable examples include Christian Bale in Zhang Yimou’s “The Flowers of War” and Matt Damon in “The Great Wall,” also directed by Zhang.
Additionally, Adrien Brody and Tim Robbins appeared in Feng Xiaogang’s “Back to 1942.” Cusack has previously starred in Mikael Hafstrom’s “Shanghai,” another Chinese-set period piece.
“Decoded” is poised to make a significant impact both in China and internationally. With its strong pedigree, engaging storyline, and high production values, the film is expected to attract a broad audience.
As it rolls out globally, “Decoded” aims to showcase the capability of Chinese cinema to produce films that can stand alongside Hollywood’s best.
Chen’s ambition to create a film that transcends cultural and financial boundaries is evident in “Decoded.” With its international cast, gripping plot, and visual excellence, the film represents a notable achievement in the world of cinema.
As audiences around the world prepare to experience “Decoded,” it is clear that Chen Sicheng’s vision and the talent of the cast and crew have combined to create a film that promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking.
