Recently, Yang Mi's halo as China's drama goddess has dimmed, with consecutive failures in three dramas. In desperate need of a successful new work, she, alongside her close friend Liu Shishi, appeared on the official cast list for Zhang Yimou's new film, "Silent Awakening," on the 14th. However, neither of them is the leading actress; the lead role is played by Song Jia, who became famous in China through the hit period drama "The World." This marks Yang Mi and Liu Shishi's first collaboration in 16 years since "Chinese Paladin 3" in 2009. The reason why they are both willing to act as supporting roles for Song Jia has thus been revealed, sparking a wave of online discussions.
For Yang Mi, joining Zhang Yimou's new film is a dream come true. As far back as October 24, 2010, while attending an event celebrating the 60th anniversary of Beijing Film Academy with Zhang Yimou, Yang Mi was introduced as an outstanding graduate. They happily conversed, and Yang Mi publicly stated that if Zhang ever needed her for a film, she would participate even if it was just showing her silhouette. Fifteen years later, Yang Mi finally fulfilled her wish to be part of Zhang Yimou’s cast, which is the main reason she is willing to play a supporting role to Song Jia in "Silent Awakening." The performances of Song Jia, Liu Shishi, and Yang Mi in the film have thus become the focus of public attention.
As for Liu Shishi, being a newcomer in the film industry, working in a Zhang Yimou film is an excellent starting point. In recent years, many top actresses born in the 1985s have ventured into the film world. From Zhao Liying's activity in films such as "Article 20," "Qiao Yan's Mind," "Road of Rebirth," and "Sunflower," to the ridicule Yang Mi faced for her acting and box office performance in "Things That Can Be Solved by a Hotpot Meal." This trend reveals the ambition these actresses have to develop in the film industry, and Liu Shishi is no exception. Her participation in "Silent Awakening" naturally brings twofold buzz: partaking in a Zhang Yimou film and reuniting with Yang Mi after 16 years, making it highly talked about.
Source: Upmedia Trends