Trailer for Homecoming reveals less flash, more depth

"Homecoming" sees the reunion of director Zhang Yimou and probably his most beloved muse, Gong Li.

"Homecoming" is set to hit China's big screens in May and will also have IMAX versions.

"Homecoming" sees the reunion of director Zhang Yimou and probably his most beloved muse, Gong Li.

It's based on Yan Gelin's novel "The Criminal Lu Yanshi", but Zhang only took the last 30 pages and turned it into a two-hour long film.

The story spans seven decades and tells the story of a man's incarceration, culminating in his eventual return and the events that follow.

Zhang is known for using bold colors and elaborate decor in his films, like "Red Sorghum" or "The Flowers of War". But judging from the new trailer, he seems to be headed in the opposite direction.

"This time it's back to basics. To present that piece of history in detail and focus on the actors' performances. It's probably the biggest challenge in my directing career." Zhang Yimou said.

Close-ups of the actors' facial expressions take up a third of the trailer, which hints at the movie's emotional depth.

"The film is very demanding on the actors. Their performances have to be genuine and natural. I've spent a lot of time talking with the two leading actors, Gong Li and Chen Daoming. I want them to inspire the younger cast members." Zhang Yimou said.

"Homecoming" is set to hit China's big screens in May and will also have IMAX versions.

Zhang is also planning to take the film to this year's Cannes Film Festival in May.

Meanwhile, when it comes to big winners at international film festivals, one Chinese film stands out.

Chinese director Diao Yinan's "Black Coal Thin Ice" recently took home the coveted Golden Bear prize for Best Picture at the Berlin Film Festival.

The screenwriter turned director spent five years polishing the script of the film.

"I still believe we should tell stories about China. Films that reflect the China of today and are carefully plotted can be competitive at international film festivals." Diao Yinan, Director said.

"Police Diary", another crime thriller similar to "Black Coal Thin Ice", has also gotten international attention.

It was crowned the "Tokyo Sakura Grand Prix" at this year's Tokyo International Film Festival.