Snapshots of the silver screen(2)
Simon says ...
Here is Fowler's take on the people who matter in Chinese cinema
Zhang Yimou
(pictured above), director, producer, cinematographer, actor, first as cinematographer in 1982: "Perhaps he's nestled in the mainstream now, but he's quite possibly the best director China has ever produced."
Chen Kaige, director, first film made in 1984: "With his film Yellow Earth he lit the fuse for the 'fifth generation' of directors. They changed everything in Chinese cinema."
Feng Xiaogang, director, actor, writer, first film made in 1992: "He's the Steven Spielberg of China. His films make lots of money but he still has great artistic ability. Chinese people love his movies."
Ge You
(pictured above), actor, first film appearance in 1985: "Feng Xiaogang's muse is a highly adaptable actor who can play anyone from the leading man to the average Joe on the street."
Jia Zhangke, director, producer, first film made in 1995: "Highly respected around the world. His careful meditations on the clash between modernity and traditional values are well worth seeking out."
Jiang Wen, actor, director, first film appearance in 1986: "As great a director as he is an actor, Jiang Wen has had a hand in so many excellent films, Black Snow (1989), In the Heat of the Sun (1995), Devils on the Doorstep (2000)."
Tian Zhuangzhuang, director, producer and academic, first film made in 1980: "His visual artistry is exemplary, and films like The Horse Thief (1986) and The Blue Kite (1993) will be around for years to come."
Xie Jin, director, first film made in 1951: "His career spanned more than 40 years and he produced some excellent films in the 'classic' style."
