By spotlighting women’s struggles and growth, Director Yang Lina is reshaping Asian cinema.
Renowned for her compelling female-centered narratives, Director Yang Lina continues to bring women’s stories to the forefront of the film industry. Serving as a jury member for the Forward Future section at this year’s Beijing International Film Festival, Yang’s work has garnered international acclaim over the years.
Championing Women’s Strength and Transformation
“The struggle and growth of women have always been the themes of my films,” Yang shared. “I see transformation, strength, and growth after struggle. I find these great virtues in women, who serve as a driving force for my creativity. Sometimes, our mothers, daughters, and friends face far greater challenges in the real world than we see in movies. Their experiences may be richer than what films portray. I really want audiences to see more female characters because it’s a part of my work. I approach telling women’s stories instinctively, intuitively, naturally, and with a sense of duty. I believe this is necessary in any era.”
Continuing the Focus on Women’s Narratives
Looking ahead, Yang remains committed to her mission. “My next film remains very dramatic, with a strong emphasis on women’s stories. It’s currently in the development phase, as I’ve only just finished post-production on my previous film. Whether it’s documentary filmmaking or narrative filmmaking, I’m continuing to tell stories about women.”
Reviving Art-House Films and Documentaries
Yang expressed hope for the resurgence of diverse cinema genres. “Before the pandemic, I remember some investors were willing to fund art-house films. Movie theaters shouldn’t only have one type of film, like Marvel movies or just comedies. There are strict classifications abroad, catering to very targeted audiences. Art-house films have charm. I’ve always said that movies should have an artistic essence. While we might watch movies for entertainment, sometimes what we see can be very important. I really hope artistic films and documentaries gradually regain their vitality.”
The Power of Film Festivals
Reflecting on the Beijing International Film Festival, Yang noted its significance. “I think the film festival is very good. It is like a city’s business card. It brings people together to watch movies. The event itself is wonderful, right? After the pandemic, we’ve heard too many sad stories about sickness and death. Every family has faced different tests. I believe it’s especially beautiful to spend this spring at the film festival. Through movies, we see all kinds of people, characters, and their fates—people’s lives and how they interact with each other. No matter what part of the world you’re in, we still find resonance and love on this big screen.”
Yang Lina’s dedication to authentic storytelling continues to inspire audiences worldwide, offering profound insights into the lives and experiences of women across Asia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
