Actor Deng Chao(R), Guo Tao(C) and Duan Yihong attend the premiere of movie "The Dead End". Photo provided to China Daily

A widely anticipated crime thriller directed by Cao Baoping will premiere on Nov 21, the director announced in Beijing on Wednesday.

The Dead End, starring some of the country's most popular actors, including Deng Chao, Guo Tao and Duan Yihong, is said to have a mesmerizing dark storyline that explores human nature. Deng, who has long been known for his positive and encouraging figures on screen will play against type in this role.

Gao Hu, an actor who was detained earlier this month for use of marijuana and methamphetamine, also played an important role in the new production. Though Cao expressed his regret for Gao's misbehavior, he said that is not enough reason to cut his scenes from the movie.

Urumqi rating raises questions on national film policy	Actor Gao Hu arrested for drug abuse