ZY: I would like to quote Milan Kundera's The Unbearable Lightness of Being. Kundera was from a socialist country like I am. It's difficult to make a good film without pressure, or perhaps that it's likely that pressure tends to lead to the production of more interesting work.

THC: What other influences have you had?

ZY: I have been thoroughly influenced by Chinese culture, but the things that have had a greater impact have been the Western writers.

THC: Did you always know that you wanted to be in film?

ZY: I was actually since age ten a painter by training.

THC: Have you ever considered relocating to the U.S. ? How important is it to you to be in an environment such as China, limiting as it may be to your artistic freedom?

ZY: I have a better understanding of the culture because I grew up there--lives, relationships among people. Ideally, China is the place that I would prefer to make my films.

THC: What is your view concerning the numerous Chinese actors who have found success here in the United States?

ZY: I feel that many Chinese actors, like Bai Ling, are excellent professionals. Yet I feel that, so far, they are still playing subordinate roles in Hollywood. Do you agree?

THC: Certainly, a comfortable niche hasn't yet been carved out. Do you feel a particular goal of your films is to make a greater impact on the world film industry for Asians?