Chinese actress Xin Zhilei took home the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday for her performance in “The Sun Rises on Us All”, directed by Cai Shangjun.
In the film, Xin, 39, portrays a woman seeking reconciliation with a former lover who had been imprisoned for a crime she committed. The role explores bitterness, regret, and unspoken emotions, allowing her to deliver a nuanced and layered performance.
Speaking from the stage, Xin expressed pride and excitement:
“Look, today I am finally here, standing on this world-class stage… and receiving this award. I am proud of myself.”
Critics praised Xin and co-star Zhang Songwen for their convincing chemistry, capturing the complex dynamic of former lovers whose past passion remains entangled with present regrets.
Xin’s rise from a modest upbringing near the China-Russia border to international acclaim began with “Crosscurrent” (2016), which competed at the Berlin International Film Festival. She later starred in Chinese blockbusters and the popular TV series “Blossom Shanghai” (2023), directed by Wong Kar-wai, cementing her reputation at home before gaining recognition in Europe.With this win, Xin succeeds Nicole Kidman, last year’s recipient, further signaling her growing global stature in cinema.
