Xie Fei (director)

Xie Fei (谢飞, born 1942) is a prominent Chinese film director and professor at the Beijing Film Academy. He is considered a member of the Fourth Generation of Chinese filmmakers, a group who resumed filmmaking after the Cultural Revolution.

Xie Fei is known for his films that often explore the complexities of Chinese society, culture, and history, particularly the lives of women and ethnic minorities. His works frequently examine themes of tradition versus modernity, individual freedom versus societal expectations, and the clash between different generations.

Some of his most celebrated films include:

• A Girl from Hunan (湘女萧萧, 1986), a story about a young girl forced into a loveless marriage in a rural setting.
• Black Snow (本命年, 1990), depicting the struggles of a recently released convict trying to reintegrate into society.
• Woman Sesame Oil Maker (香魂女, 1993), which won the Golden Bear at the 43rd Berlin International Film Festival. This film delves into the life of a rural woman who runs a sesame oil business.
• A Mongolian Tale (黑骏马, 1995), a visually stunning film about a young Mongolian shepherd and his love for his homeland.

Xie Fei's films are noted for their strong performances, realistic portrayal of Chinese life, and sensitive exploration of complex social issues. He has received numerous awards and accolades both in China and internationally for his contribution to cinema. He has also been an influential educator, shaping the next generation of Chinese filmmakers at the Beijing Film Academy. He advocates for a more independent and creative film industry in China.