Chinese actress turned director Vicki Zhao is set to direct the big-screen version of the 1990's drama hit that made her one of the most popular actresses in the country.

Alibaba pictures, the rising film unit of e-commerce giant Alibaba, recently acquired adaptation rights for the film and is also set to produce and distribute the Zhao-directed film. A spokesperson for the company did not release any other information such as the cast because they are currently in the planning process.

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My Fair Princess was written by Chinese writer Chiung Yao. It is set during the 18th century Quing Dynasty and tells the story of an orphan tomboy who ends up befriending the illegitimate daughter of their Emperor and then goes on to become a princess but only by accident. 

The show debuted in 1998 and became a major hit soon after its second episode aired on the Hunan broadcasting system. 

Among the investors in Alibaba pictures are Zhao and her husband, Huang Youlong. The couple are reportedly worth $1 Billion and are known to be good friends with Alibaba CEO and founder Jack Ma. 

Zhao is also reported to be one of the first investors in Alibaba Pictures and is said to hold a substantial stake in the company. 

Aside from My Fair Princess, Alibaba Pictures has already previously invested in films such as Hollywood blockbuster hit Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation starring Tom Cruise, as well as a growing number of local Chinese movies. 

TagsVicki Zhao, My Fair Princess