Bille August's war epic set in China to be released next month
Chinese actress Liu Yifei plays a village woman with an 8-year-old daughter in the film “The Chinese Widow.”
Celebrated Danish filmmaker Bille August’s latest war epic “The Chinese Widow” will hit cinemas across China on November 10.
Set in World War II, it tells the true story of a Chinese widow who rescues an American pilot from Japanese troops and the romance that ensues. The pair are played by American actor Emile Hirsch and Chinese actress Liu Yifei.
August, a Chinese culture enthusiast, is adept at portraying ordinary people involved in big events. He was deeply moved by the story and spent four years revising the script.
The story is told from the perspective of the Chinese widow, played by Liu who normally plays more glamorous roles.
The film’s special screening in Denmark earlier this year was a success, receiving wide acclaim.
August’s film “Pelle the Conqueror” won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, as well as the Palme d'Or, all in 1988. In 1992 he won the Palme d'Or again for “The Best Intentions.”
American actor Emile Hirsch in the film
