Lionsgate is partnering with Infinity Pictures/CMC and Yue Hua Entertainment Culture Communication to produce the sixth instalment of the Step Up dance movie franchise, although this one will be aimed at the lucrative Chinese market and will only be distributed as a Chinese-language version.
Variety reports that Step Up 6 is being directed by Ron Yuan, and will start shooting in Beijing and Los Angeles next month with an all Chinese cast. It is slated to arrive in cinemas in late 2017.
“The Step Up franchise is celebrating its 10th anniversary stronger than ever,” said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chairman Patrick Wachsberger and Motion Picture Group co-president Erik Feig. “We’re proud to partner with Infinity and Yue Hua Entertainment on the next exciting chapter of a dance phenomenon that continues to grow in popularity around the world. Step Up 3, 4 & 5 conquered Asian audiences at the box office and, with the incredibly talented filmmaker Ron Yuan, a remarkable cast, spectacular dancing and a story line that combines dance with martial arts, Step Up 6 is poised to become a major motion picture event for Chinese audiences.”
The previous five instalments of the Step Up series have grossed over $600 million at the worldwide box office, and has also spawned an upcoming TV series and live stage event.
