Chinese Directors

Below are some of the best Chinese directors ever. Click on their pictures to discover more about them.

A Brief History of Chinese Cinema

The history of cinema in China can be traced back to the turn of the 20th century, following the invention of the motion picture. The first recorded short film in China was made in 1905, titled “The Battle of Dingjunshan.” It was based on a Beijing opera and is the only surviving film of China’s early cinematic ventures. During the 1920s and 1930s, known as the “Golden Age” of Chinese cinema, Shanghai emerged as the cultural centre, producing significant films like “The Goddess”. This era was marked by the work of left-wing filmmakers whose works tackled social issues and the struggles of the common people. However, the outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War and subsequent political turmoil had a significant impact on the film industry, leading to a period of decline.

After the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, the cinema industry was nationalised. During this time, films were primarily used as a tool for propaganda and to promote socialist values. The period saw the production of “revolutionary model operas” during the Cultural Revolution, which lasted from 1966 until 1976. The film industry was severely restricted, and many films, filmmakers, and actors were banned or criticised. However, after the end of the Cultural Revolution, the late 1970s and 1980s became known as the “New Wave” of Chinese cinema. This period witnessed the rise of the Fifth Generation of filmmakers, who brought a new artistic sensibility to Chinese cinema. Directors like Zhang Yimou and Chen Kaige became internationally recognised for their work, with films such as “Red Sorghum” and “Farewell My Concubine”, which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes.

In modern times, Chinese cinema has continued to evolve, with the Sixth Generation directors like Jia Zhangke bringing more focus on contemporary social issues through a realist lens. The commercial film industry has also seen significant growth, with China being one of the largest box office markets in the world. Directors like Feng Xiaogang and Zhang Yimou have made successful blockbusters that appeal to both domestic and international audiences. Meanwhile, Chinese independent cinema continues to flourish, albeit often under the radar due to interior constraints.