Netflix Eyes Up Hollywood With Feature Film

Netflix is to make its first entry into feature film production by jointly producing the sequel to the Oscar-winning Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: The Green Legend will be released exclusively on the online video streaming service and in select global IMAX cinemas next August.

The original film, released in 2000 and directed by Ang Lee, won the best foreign language film Oscar in 2001 and earned more than $213m worldwide.

Michelle Yeoh will reprise her role as Yu Shu-Lien and Donnie Yen returns as Silent Wolf in the film which is also being made by the Weinstein Company.

It will be directed by Yuen Wo-Ping, a martial arts master.

"The moviegoing experience is evolving quickly and profoundly, and Netflix is unquestionably at the forefront of that movement," said TWC co-chairman Harvey Weinstein in a statement.

"We are tremendously excited to be continuing our great relationship with Netflix and bringing to fans all over the world the latest chapter in this amazing and intriguing story."

Netflix said the film would be the first of several major movies to be given a day-and-date release on the service and in some IMAX cinemas.

The company already makes its own straight-to-web dramas including House Of Cards and Orange Is The New Black.