Writer: Goh Wen Xuan

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Watch this if you liked: “Secret”, “The Fantastic Water Babes”

Wang Leehom, dubbed as one of the 'Three Maestros Of Chinese Pop Music" with his composing skills, good looks and impeccable singing talent, is adding another feather in his cap: film director for his first movie "Love In Disguise".

Could it be that the other two maestros, Jay Chou and David Tao are venturing into moviemaking, till it spurred Leehom to direct this rom-com? It might be, since the story is based on puppy love between a pop star and a down-to-earth girl. Quite a letdown actually, judging that the reviewer considers the music videos directed by Leehom as inspiring. Combining both his favourite elements in music: classical Chinese music and hip-hop, "Love In Disguise" is bearable only because of the music scores, all composed by Leehom himself!

"Love In Disguise" tells of Du Ming Han (Wang Leehom), a pop star so popular that everyone wants a piece of him, but only one girl Song Xiao Qing (Crystal Liu), a student at the Far East Music Academy, is oblivious to pop music. He is smitten by her musical skills, thus going through great lengths in posing as a poor villager to enter the music academy, just to be close to her. Roping in his best friend Wei Zhi Bo, played by funnyman Chen Han Dian ("Monga"), both of them weave through their real identity and the impostors in the music academy with much humour.

The movie leaves a lot to be desired as the storyline is almost done to death, with nothing much to be explored. Even the plot is similar to two music videos done by Jay Chou and Leehom himself! Probably a wish for all the male celebrities: to meet a gorgeous girl without letting her know that you're a famous star? The movie is also peppered with cheesy lines like "I think you're my soulmate." and "Besides you, I couldn't see anything else." as well as Leehom-endorsed products.

Leehom himself played Du Ming Han as if he was the star himself, only adding comic relief in his fake identity. Chen Han Dian was in his element, rather than his previous dark character in "Monga", providing ammo for Leehom to goof around. Crystal Liu's characters didn't shine, as she is constantly bugged by Leehom. The highlight of the movie would be Joan Chen ("Lust, Caution") who was brilliant as the loving yet demanding manager for Du Ming Han. One surprise cameo appearance would be Hong Kong's singer-composer Khalil Fong, performing a short number in the movie.

Overall, the movie is only for die-hard fans of Leehom, unless you are a sucker for pop star-meets-girl storyline. One thing to mention is that the songs in "Love In Disguise" will be included in Leehom's upcoming album "18 Martial Arts". Maybe you should buy the album and skip the movie instead?

Cinema Online, 11 August 2010