Cai Shangjun, the acclaimed director who won the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival, returns with his new film, The Sun Rises on Us All. This drama delves into themes of guilt, complicity, and the complex nature of forgiveness. The film features Xin Zhilei as Meiyun, whose life drastically changes upon reconnecting with her former lover Baoshu, played by Zhang Songwen. Baoshu previously served time for a crime Meiyun committed, adding layers of tension to their reunion. The cast also includes Feng Shaofeng, known for his role in Wolf Totem.
Cai’s Reflection on the Pandemic’s Impact
Cai, who previously earned the best director prize in 2011 for People Mountain People Sea, shared insights into how the pandemic reshaped his approach to filmmaking. He noted that after releasing The Conformist in 2017, he faced significant challenges in developing new projects due to restrictive conditions in China during the pandemic. “From 2019 to 2022, during those three years China was in lockdown, there was a relatively closed climate for making films,” he explained. Cai’s collaboration with his wife, Han Nianjin, who wrote the screenplay, became a pivotal moment during this period of uncertainty.
As he reflected on his past works, Cai observed, “In People Mountain People Sea and The Conformist, I perhaps focused more on the less prominent characters in society.” He emphasized that his latest film explores the spiritual and moral dilemmas faced by contemporary Chinese society, stating, “Now what I’m looking at more is the spiritual life of the Chinese people.”
Exploring Morality in Contemporary China
Cai’s new film tackles profound themes such as sacrifice, benevolence, and the complexities of morality. He describes it as “a very Chinese story about morals in China,” addressing the layers of kindness and hatred that coexist within human relationships. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of significant societal changes in China, particularly post-COVID, leading to shifts in cultural perspectives.
To achieve the film’s emotional depth, Cai collaborated with South Korean cinematographer Kim Hyunseok and French editor Matthieu Laclau. He aimed for a cinematographic style that aligns with the emotional arcs of the characters rather than relying on overt visual flair. “I wanted it to follow the emotional logic of the characters in the film,” he stated. The editing process, which involved around 47 versions, was described by Cai as one of the most enjoyable experiences of his career, highlighting his synergy with Laclau.
Looking ahead, Cai is already contemplating his next project. He envisions a story centered on a male character in his 30s from a small town in China. Set during the Spring Festival, the narrative will explore themes of love and the quest for companionship, infused with elements of black humor.
Produced by Guangzhou Mint Pictures and supported by a consortium of Chinese partners, The Sun Rises on Us All represents a significant exploration of moral complexities in modern Chinese life. As international audiences await its release, Cai Shangjun continues to navigate the delicate balance between personal storytelling and broader societal reflections.
