Richie Jen says directing romantic comedy fulfills a dream

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Richie Jen says his new film — his first as a director — is just like his music: simple and pure.

The 49-year-old entertainer wrote, directed and stars in “All You Need Is Love” alongside Taiwanese superstar Shu Qi. She plays a rich girl running away from problems at home who meets and falls in love with Jen’s character, a struggling inn owner.

With 30 years of showbiz experience, Jen is known first as a pop singer. And he says, just like his music, his film gives audiences that a warm, fuzzy feeling. “I think movies are dream factories. I want to make your dreams come true and feel blissful afterwards.”

“My music is very simple, not a big deal, but it is sincere, very pure and moving.”

A megahit single from Jen’s 1996 multiplatinum album opened the door for film and TV roles.

During those years of acting, he kept alive his life’s dream of becoming a film director, often sharing his vision and script ideas with real-life pal Shu.

He credits her as his muse, but never thought Shu would be available for his directorial debut. When his management told him Shu was available but he had to work quickly to meet her schedule, he was eager.

“I only had 2 months to prepare. Is that enough? Doesn’t matter! Bring it on! We need to put ourselves out there for our dreams. I said, ‘Yes!’ And then started preparing,” he said.

“All You Need Is Love” is in theaters in Taiwan and China and opens in Hong Kong on Thursday.