Shi Qi

A Changchun Film Studio, HCDY (BJ) Film & Media Co. production. (International sales: HCDY, Beijing.) Produced by Xhao Guoguang, Ma Shuhua, Ma Shuhong. Directed by Ji Cheng. Executive director, Li Hongxuan. Screenplay, Joe Chow, Ni Jun, Zhu Minjiang. With: Joan Chen, Sam Chow, Yao Anlian, Liao Xueqi, Vision West. A modest tale of a teen son reconciling with his mother, "Shi Qi" gains depth from an understated perf by Joan Chen and makes unshowy use of its ethnic setting. Interesting first feature by mid-20s helmer Ji Cheng, from a script also written by youngsters, equips this for Asian film weeks showcasing fresh talent. Set among the She minority in a hilly region of Zhejiang, story begins with a village celebration for teen Tianyi (Vision West), who's going abroad to study. Tianyi character functions as a contrast to the... [read full story]