Reviews: Movie Opening the door of terror

Psychological thriller The Door is directed by Li Shaohong, one of China's few female directors.

As a classmate of Zhang Yimou and Chen Kaige, Li has directed films like Stolen Life, Blush and Baober in Love and TV serials known for their sensitivity and feminine touches. However The Door is her first suspense movie and first film in three years.

Set in contemporary Chongqing, the movie is based on the novel Road Junction, which first appeared online.

A young man feels marginalized in the ever-changing society and rests his dignity and pride entirely on his relationship with his girlfriend. When she leaves him, he searches for the truth behind the breakup.

"Doors not only keep things in, they also let things slip out," Li said. "Terror must come from inside the mind, and there are dark corners in everyone's heart."

To prepare for the project, Li spent a year studying thrillers. Though the film is a suspenseful thriller, its plot has a touch of romance, and is carried ably by Chen Kun, Yang Mi, Huang Jue and Lin Shen. "I've waited six years for this role," said Chen, who starred in Baober in Love. "This time I won't be a heartthrob." For the part, Chen will shave his head.

Berlin Silver Bear award-winning photographer Zeng Nianping, who is Li's husband, said Chen was keen to get involved with the project because visual effects are a strong characteristic of Li's film.

Budgeted at $3.75 million, The Door was originally scheduled for premiere around Halloween last year, but fierce competitive pressure pushed the date back. It opens tomorrow.

Chen Nan

(China Daily 01/10/2007 page20)