‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ being made into film

After long years of development, a movie version of the best-selling novel “Memoirs of a Geisha” is headed into production.

The book became a sensation around the world when it was first published in 1997. The story chronicles a young girl’s rise from poverty in a Japanese fishing village to life in high society.

The lead role of Sayuri will go to Zhang Ziyi, the Chinese actress who starred in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and appeared in the comedy “Rush Hour 2.”

Zhang, 25, has been working to perfect her English for several years.

“This is the first time that I will play the lead in an English-language movie,” she said. “It will be a big challenge, but the studios, producers and director have shown great confidence in me. I will continue to do my utmost to make this the best role I’ve ever played.”

Ken Watanabe, an Oscar nominee for “The Last Samurai,” will portray the Chairman, a high-powered executive with whom Sayuri falls in love.

Another “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” co-star, Michelle Yeoh, has signed on as Mameha, the elegant and experienced geisha who becomes Sayuri’s mentor.

“Geisha” will be directed by Rob Marshall, the Oscar-nominated director of “Chicago.” Production is set to begin in the fall, but a release date has not yet been set.

Marshall has long wanted to make this his next project, but was locked into a contract with Miramax Films, while Columbia Pictures and DreamWorks SKG held the rights to “Geisha.” After lengthy negotiations, a deal was eventually reached among the studios.

For many years, Steven Spielberg was interested in directing the film. He will now serve as a producer.

“From the time I first read Arthur Golden’s novel, I wanted to see this as a film,” Spielberg said. “It’s a uniquely compelling story rich with characters who take you into a world you have never experienced before.”