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Zhang Ziyi (Pictures) tackles AIDS stigma in new film, "Tales of Magic"

Zhang Ziyi and Aaron Kwok at the "A Tale of Magic" press conference, in Beijing, on March 2, 2010. (STR/AFP/Getty Images) STR

(CBS) Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi is shining the light on HIV/AIDS, a taboo subject in China, in her latest film, "Tale of Magic," which also stars Hong Kong actor and singer Aaron Kwok.

The two stars, who recently were in Beijing to promote the movie, play an HIV-infected couple in the film, which was directed by Gu Changwei ("Farewell My Concubine").

Pictures: Zhang Ziyi

Gu, who won the 2005 Berlinale's Silver Bear award with his film "Peacock," made a point to cast real HIV/AIDS victims in all the extra and supporting roles for the film, the WSJ reports.

During the movie making process, Gu appointed filmmaker Zhhao Lian to document the process for a HIV/AIDS-themed documentary titled "Together."

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