Film finds ups and downs in 'golden era'

Hong Kong director Ann Hui's new film The Golden Era, featuring a stellar-studded cast spearheaded by Tang Wei, will premiere on Oct 1.

Capturing the life of female writer Xiao Hong and her fellow intellectuals in the chaotic 1930s, the film has been one of the most anticipated domestic releases this year. Some people even call it an art-house version of The Avengers, referring to its shining cast, including more than 10 veteran actors like Wang Zhiwen, Hao Lei and Yuan Quan.

They play the most influential literary figures in the 1930s, who, despite the hazardous social upheavals, were dedicated to their faith in literature and a better future. At the center of the ensemble roles is Xiao Hong, whose personal life was no less dramatic than her novels. Around her are her lovers Xiao Jun and Duanmu Hongliang, also famous writers, and her mentor Lu Xun, the celebrated writer and thinker of the 1930s.