China has a thriving film industry, producing some of the most visually stunning and thought-provoking films in recent years. 2018 was no exception, with many Chinese movies gaining critical acclaim and commercial success both at home and abroad. Here are the top 5 best Chinese movies of 2018:
- Dying to Survive
"Dying to Survive" is a heart-wrenching drama that tells the story of a man who smuggles cheap but unapproved cancer drugs from India to sell in China. The movie is based on a true story and highlights the lack of affordable medical treatment in China. "Dying to Survive" was a box-office hit in China and won multiple awards at the 55th Golden Horse Awards.
- An Elephant Sitting Still
"An Elephant Sitting Still" is a four-hour-long epic that follows the lives of four characters over the course of a single day. The film is a social commentary on the isolation and hopelessness of modern China, and the struggles of the younger generation. It was the directorial debut of Hu Bo, who sadly passed away shortly after completing the film.
- Operation Red Sea
"Operation Red Sea" is a high-octane action movie that follows the elite Chinese Navy's Jiaolong Assault Team as they try to rescue Chinese citizens and foreign nationals from a terrorist group in a fictional country. The film was praised for its realistic action sequences and attention to detail, and it was a huge box-office success in China.
- Shadow
"Shadow" is a visually stunning martial arts movie that tells the story of a commander who trains a shadow, a look-alike who takes his place when needed. The film was praised for its art direction, cinematography, and fight choreography, which was influenced by Chinese calligraphy. "Shadow" won multiple awards at the 55th Golden Horse Awards and was also selected as the Chinese entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 91st Academy Awards.
- Ash is Purest White
"Ash is Purest White" is a romantic drama that spans over a decade, following a gangster's girlfriend as she navigates changing times and personal struggles. The film was praised for its complex characters, stunning cinematography, and exploration of the shifting social and economic landscape in China. "Ash is Purest White" premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and was a critical success in China.
In conclusion, these five Chinese movies from 2018 showcased the diversity and creativity of the Chinese film industry. From heart-wrenching dramas to high-octane action movies, these films captivated audiences both in China and around the world, and will be remembered as some of the best films of their time.
