Fans of Asian cinema have been anxiously awaiting the next movie from Hong Kong superstar Stephen Chow, and it looks like we are now one step closer to seeing it. The sci-fi/comedy A Hope has reportedly wrapped production and is now moving into post; meanwhile Columbia Pictures Film Production Asia have acquired the rights to distribute the film outside of China. It will be handled by Sony Pictures Classics in North America.

The story revolves around a poor father who is down on his luck and can’t afford a toy for his son. When he finds one in the trash, it turns out to be a creature from outer space! Chow has stated before that his favourite director is Steven Spielberg, and this could end up being his most Spielberg-esque project to date. I always found his movies quite clever and funny, not to mention impressive in how they are able to translate across many different cultures and languages. This is one movie I can’t wait to hear more about. Although a release date has yet to be set, it’s looking like A Hope may be ready sometime in late 2007. On the other hand, apparently it’s another big special effects vehicle so there’s no guarantee on that.