StudioLA's Jim Ferguson interviews Zhang Ziyi Star of Rush Hour 2

She wants to be called "Z" in America. StudioLA's Jim Ferguson chatted with "Z," better known as Zhang Ziyi on her meteoric acting career which is now crossing borders into this summer's comedy, "Rush Hour 2" the sequel to the $250 million blockbuster with superstars Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker.

She wants to be called "Z" in America. StudioLA's Jim Ferguson chatted with "Z," better known as Zhang Ziyi on her meteoric acting career which is now crossing borders into this summer's comedy, "Rush Hour 2" the sequel to the $250 million blockbuster with superstars Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker.

"Z" has captivated the hearts and minds of America as the young martial arts heroine in the Oscar-winning "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," the most popular foreign-language film in U.S. history. "Rush Hour 2" director Brett Ratner saw her in "Crouching Tiger" and rewrote a part for her in his movie originally written for a man. With "Rush Hour 2" not due in theatres until August, "Z" fans will be able to see her in "The Road Home," a 1999 Chinese film now being released in the U.S. This is the film that Oscar-winning director Ang Lee saw when he decided to cast her in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon."

Also read what costars Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker say about "Rush Hour 2!"

Jim: Welcome to the U.S. Lets talk about "Rush Hour 2." After "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" did you receive many other scripts to read and offers? You were so good in that film. Was it a surprise when you met the director, Brett Ratner?

Z: Yes. He was a very charming young man, very kind and a warm type of man.

Jim: Is Jackie Chan a very good teacher in martial arts?

Z: Yes, he taught me martial arts and taught me that I need to learn more English and improve my English.

Jim: Is there a connection, as she is a dancer, between dancing and martial arts.

Z: The [similarities] are that you have to be very strong and very precise and [strong] to do both well.

Jim: What was your fight scene like with Chris Tucker?

Z: I was very afraid to hurt him! Especially when I was fighting the martial arts combat scenes because he doesn't have as much experience in martial arts. Especially when I was striking towards him [I wanted] to make sure that I did not make contact with him.

Jim: What are your impressions of the U.S. so far?

Z: America is very bountiful, it's very open. The opportunities and resources are very available.

Jim: Would you like to do more films here?

Z: I hope so!