Cai Shangjun Returns to Venice with Moral Drama “The Sun Rises on Us All”
Cai Shangjun, the acclaimed director who won the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival in 2011, has returned to the prestigious event with his latest film, The Sun Rises on Us All. This new work delves into themes of guilt, complicity, and the potential for forgiveness within the context of contemporary Chinese society. The film features Xin Zhilei as Meiyun, whose life is irrevocably altered by the reappearance of her former lover Baoshu, played by Zhang Songwen, who had previously been imprisoned for a crime she committed.
Co-starring Feng Shaofeng, the film offers a restrained take on moral dilemmas faced by individuals in today’s China. Cai reflects on the filmmaking journey that was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. He explains, “In 2017, I made a film called The Conformist. After that, I was preparing for a new film. The pandemic hit in 2019, creating a challenging environment for filmmaking in China. From 2019 to 2022, the lockdowns led to a relatively closed climate for creative expression.”
Exploring Themes of Morality and Change
In his latest project, Cai aims to address the evolving moral landscape in China. “This film focuses on themes of morality,” he states. “It’s a very Chinese story that discusses sacrifice and the reciprocal nature of such actions. It also examines kindness and the complex feelings of hatred that can coexist with it.” The narrative emphasizes the internal struggles faced by the characters, reflecting broader societal changes since the pandemic.
Working alongside South Korean cinematographer Kim Hyunseok and French editor Matthieu Laclau, Cai strived for a visual style that complements the emotional depth of the story. “I wanted the cinematography to follow the emotional logic of the characters,” he explains. “We aimed for the audience to engage deeply with the characters, rather than focusing on aesthetic choices.”
Cai also praised Laclau’s collaborative spirit during the editing process, noting, “It has been the most pleasant experience I’ve had with an editor. We created around 47 different versions of the film, continually refining our vision.” This level of commitment demonstrates their dedication to providing an authentic viewing experience.
Future Projects and Inspirations
As Cai looks towards future endeavors, he reveals plans for his next film, which will center on a male character in his 30s from a small town in China. Set during the Spring Festival, the story will explore themes of love and the quest for a partner, infused with elements of dark humor. “It will reflect the complexities of relationships in today’s society,” he notes.
The Sun Rises on Us All is produced by Guangzhou Mint Pictures and features a range of Chinese production partners. International sales are managed by Mk2 Films. As Cai returns to the Venice Film Festival, he expresses hope that his film will resonate with audiences, offering a nuanced perspective on morality in contemporary China. The film is set to premiere in March 2024, further heightening anticipation for its release.
