In a blush embroidered Monique Lhullier gown, dripping in diamond jewellery by Chopard, Zhang Ziyi presented Antonio Banderas with the Best Actor Award at the closing ceremony of Cannes Film Festival just a few days ago. This was just one of numerous notable appearances she made at the Festival, including an appearance at the prestigious annual Cannes Masterclasses. Amidst it all, Hong Kong Tatler got the chance to speak to her about her career and the legacy she hopes to leave behind
Zhang Ziyi first walked Cannes Festival's famous red carpet at the screening of Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 19 years ago, then a wide-eyed, 21-year-old actress from Beijing, oblivious to the frenetic world that is Hollywood.
She would go on to become one of the most sought-after actresses of her generation, taking on some of cinema's most celebrated roles starring alongside the industry's biggest names. We sat down with her at Cannes as she reflects fondly on those earlier days, how she's handled fame, and how motherhood has changed her.
What is your most unforgettable experience to date at Cannes?
I have to say, it's the first time I attended the Cannes Film Festival 19 years ago. I can still remember the first time I walked the red carpet—it was my first Cannes Red Carpet experience, arm in arm with Ang Lee for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. That was very meaningful to me.
You've played numerous and varied roles in your 20-year careeer. What would you say is your most memorable role so far?
I think that would be my first starring role in my first-ever movie, The Road Home. That is the most memorable to me and favourite because that movie kept me in that age—you know, 18 years old, young, a girl in the big screen—you can never repeat that. So that’s very special to me.
What does it take to be a good actor?
Be real. Be genuine. And you have to learn through experience, observe people and know as much about human nature and personalities as you can. Then you can really take on roles.
What do you want to be remembered for?
I want to be remembered as a good actor. I have reached 20 years doing this and I strive still to be able to do this. I still want to be able to find real roles, real characters—those characters you can relate to.
