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Sarkissian on 'Mad' mission

Producer to remake two Johnnie To films

By MICHAEL FLEMING

Producer Arthur Sarkissian has nabbed the remake rights to two Johnnie To pics, including 'The Mad Detective.'

Sarkissian

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"Rush Hour" producer Arthur Sarkissian has acquired rights to remake "The Mad Detective" and "The Mission," two crime thrillers directed by Hong Kong helmer Johnnie To.

Sarkissian described To's 2007 film as a psychological thriller about a police detective who uses his ability to see the inner personalities of suspects to solve crimes. To's 1999 film "The Mission" is the story of a mob boss who survives an assassination attempt and hires five bodyguards to protect him. The bonds of the guards are tested when the boss orders them to kill one of their own after he's suspected of bedding the boss's wife.

"These are two of his best films, and if Johnnie wants to remake his own movies on an international level, that would be great," said Sarkissian. He intends to hire writers quickly and self-finance development.

Deal comes as To prepares to direct "The Red Circle," a remake of the Jean-Pierre Melville-directed 1970 film "Le Cercle Rouge."