Wan jian chuan xin

This is probably one of the best Chinese-language films ever. It successfully develops a memorable female character in modern China. The character, perfectly played by Yan Bingyan, is gritty, unflinching, unyielding, optimistic and stubborn, even under extremely difficult conditions like a disloyal husband or an ungrateful child. The script is realistic, the direction is suspenseful, and the performances are impeccable. We see such characters in everyday life, but no other films could be so sharp and resonant.