Kokuto:
I was just watching a video where someone on the film said that Tan wanted the role so bad, he hired a stylist from Hendigan with his own money and did an audition tape or / and photos. And IIRC, he also had said previously that he had to audition like 6 times for the role.
I can see why he would. Priest is one of the most well-known names in the BL novels sphere and Sha Po Lan is one of her most well-known works - praised for the characters, romance as well as detailed plot/world-building. Gu Yun would also be an interesting character to play - so many layers and contradictions to him. I should go back to finish this novel.
Kokuto:
The only other thing I think is going to happen, as I've heard Tan Jian Ci himself say it, was that he would like to play a villain, so I wouldn't be surprised to see him doing that next. I think he should do another iconic costume drama character, as he's not getting any younger.... even if he looks like Dorian Gray. lol
I can see why he would want to shift to more serious drama productions rather than idol romance dramas. But the selfish side of me would like a few more costume dramas - maybe something like Nirvana in Fire? And yes, a role as some sort of Hannibal Lecter-ish character would be awesome.
plor20:
At this point, whoever is the leaker is just enjoying killing us softly! ┻━┻ ︵ヽ(`Д´)ノ︵ ┻━┻
They are watching and laughing at the rest of us who don't get to watch. Meanie!