Michelle Yeoh replaces Zhang Ziyi as the lead in "Tomb Raider 3"

Michelle Yeoh has finally beaten out Gong Li and Zhang Ziyi to be confirmed by Universal Pictures as the female lead in "The Mummy 3". She will play a pivotal role as a wise character who eliminates Jet Li's (blog) super mummy. The two engage in intense battles within the Terracotta Warrior tomb, with Michelle Yeoh ultimately succeeding in preserving world peace.

Since "The Mummy 3" is part of a family-friendly, globally successful series, the competition for the female lead was fierce. Besides Michelle Yeoh, it was rumored that Gong Li and Zhang Ziyi were also determined to secure the role. However, the American side has now reached a conclusion, deciding on Michelle Yeoh to face off against Jet Li. The two previously collaborated in "Tai Chi: Master Zhang San Feng" in 1993, where they demonstrated great chemistry. In this film, Jet Li plays the villainous mummy, sharing many scenes and action sequences with the wise character played by Michelle Yeoh. Hollywood is highly anticipating and hopeful about their performances. The director of the film, American Rob Cohen, has always been deeply interested in Chinese martial arts and has previously directed "Bruce Lee: The Legend."

"The Mummy 3" is set to begin filming on July 27th of this year, starting with locations in Montreal, Canada, before moving to the Terracotta Warrior tomb pits in Xi'an, China. This film is also the first Hollywood production, after Jackie Chan's (blog) and Kim Hee-sun's "Myth," to be granted permission to film at the Terracotta Warrior tomb pits.