Zhang Yu
Acting
Biography
Zhang Yu (born September 25, 1982, in Guizhou, China) is a prominent actor from Mainland China, known for his transformative roles and deep commitment to independent cinema. Formerly credited under the name Zhang Xin, he is celebrated for embracing complex characters and unconventional projects, earning the reputation of being a "drama addict" within industry circles. With over a decade dedicated to supporting and promoting independent films, Zhang has become an influential figure among contemporary Chinese actors. He rose to international attention with his powerful performance as Yu Cheng in An Elephant Sitting Still (2018), followed by widely praised roles in Dying to Survive, A Cool Fish, and Back to the Wharf. His work often explores themes of morality, societal pressure, and emotional nuance, setting him apart as a master of subtle intensity. Zhang Yu has continued to expand his creative reach, appearing in more than 29 productions including film and television. He also serves as a part-time visual artist and script consultant, further reflecting his multifaceted approach to storytelling.
Known For
In 1997, before the anti-drug bureau was established, Halan City in Northeast China formed a temporary elite team to tackle a sudden drug crisis. Despite their skills, they are unfamiliar with new drugs and must confront ruthless traffickers and devious smuggling methods while grappling with moral dilemmas and the tests of justice and humanity. United by their courage and determination, they create a stirring legend of fighting crime and corruption.
The First Shot
Wang Tiemei, a single mother, loses her job and moves, befriending neighbor Xiaoye who appears cheerful but is depressed. Their bond grows as Tiemei navigates relationships with her ex-husband causing trouble.
Her Story
Desperate to pay for his little sister's surgery, a young man takes part in a risky business venture - only to encounter some serious setbacks.
Nice View
A Chinese leukaemia patient smuggles cheap but untested pharmaceuticals from India to help hundreds of Chinese people suffering from cancer.
Dying to Survive
A bizarre case caused thousands of waves. There are different opinions on the truth. When the whole story of the case was gradually restored like pieces of a puzzle, people realized that the truth was not that important anymore.
She's Got No Name
In the northern Chinese city of Manzhouli, they say there is an elephant that simply sits and ignores the world. Manzhouli becomes an obsession for the protagonists of this film, a longed-for escape from the downward spiral in which they find themselves.
An Elephant Sitting Still
In different parts of rural China, various people explore what makes their communities unique.
My People, My Homeland
Two criminals hide in the apartment of a quadriplegic woman after a failed robbery attempt. Her brother, a disgraced officer, exploits the situation to return to the police force.
A Cool Fish
Featuring seven stories from seven auteurs from around the world, the film chronicles this unprecedented moment in time, and is a true love letter to the power of cinema and its storytellers.
The Year of the Everlasting Storm
The story of sharpshooter Zhang Taofang, a young army recruit who at age 22 sets a record during the Korean War by reportedly killing or wounding 214 American soldiers with 435 shots in just 32 days.
Snipers
At 17 years old, as the only hearing member in her hearing-impaired family, the girl has long navigated between her family's silent world and the outside world of sound, growing accustomed to serving as both bridge and interpreter. Their love and dependence entwine her like creeping vines, yet within her heart rages a fierce flame of longing for a broader world. An unexpected upheaval forces Yu Yan to confront the dilemma between pursuing her dreams and protecting her family. Through the crucible of growing pains, she begins to carve her own path while seeking a melody she can share with those she loves.
The One
A haunting look at the horrors of Unit 731’s biological warfare, reflecting on history’s wounds and urging a hope for lasting peace.
Man's Inhumanity to Man
On a dark night, Xueming hits a pedestrian with his car and flees the scene. Desperate to escape his feelings of guilt, he decides to approach the dead man's wife, Mrs. Liang. He develops an ambiguous relationship with the widow, while a policeman tries to resolve the investigation that will change his life forever.
Are You Lonesome Tonight?
A man wanted for negligent homicide returns to his hometown after 15 years, only to be haunted by his past, and getting mixed up in a scheme involving the daughter of his victim.
Back to the Wharf
During a time of unrest in Shazhou, a once-prosperous Tang Dynasty outpost now under Tibetan control, a rebellion led by Zhang Yichao sparks hope for liberation. As the conflict intensifies, a group of unlikely heroes—including a thief, a deserter, and a general’s daughter—unite to fight for their people’s freedom.
Heroes of Dunhuang
Sanjin, the little brother of Yiwu-based businessman Chen, ventures to Southeast Asia to expand his business and prove his mettle. Just as he strikes a deal with a television station, his business is hit by a global recession and a terrorist attack. Will Sanjin choose to be devoured by darkness, or will he be reborn from the ashes?
A Cool Fish 2
No description available.
The Old Dog
A sprawling true-crime case illuminating the fates of ordinary people amid the tides of changing times.
She's Got No Name: Part Two
A dark comedy follows a Siberian tiger, a dog, a forklift driver, a middle school teacher, a poet, a debt collector and a pregnant woman. Beneath the absurdities of an owner trying to avenge his dog and his pregnant wife is a story about reality.
Manchurian Tiger
Sanzhe, who was released from prison, broke into the lives of a family of three, and the fate of the four people was intertwined.