Latest news with #Mandarin-language
Scroll.in
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scroll.in
Start the week with a film: Texture and layers in murder mystery ‘Only the River Flows'
Some murder mysteries lose their allure when the killer's identity is revealed. Only the River Flows is not that kind of movie. Chinese director Wei Shujun's film has the atmospherics, open-endedness and enigma that are often missing from the usual blunt-edged procedural. Only the River Flows (2023), adapted from acclaimed Chinese writer Yun Hua's novel Mistakes by the River, is a cerebral crime drama that alludes to the changes sweeping across rural China in the 1990s. Only the River Flows is set in 1995 in a village, where a flowing river proves to be the only element that is predictable. An old woman is clubbed to death by the riverside. The police chief instructs detective Ma Zhe (Zhu Yilong) to solve the case quickly. An abandoned cinema hall is repurposed as the investigation unit. The strict, taciturn and chain-smoking Ma Zhe quickly arrives at the modus operandi, but he's flummoxed when there are more murders. Is a serial killer at work? Ma Zhe isn't satisfied with the person designated as the perpetrator. His probe carries on even after he has submitted his official report, amidst his wife's difficult pregnancy and pressure from his superiors. The Mandarin-language film is available on Prime Video. The murder investigation in Only the River Flows expands into a subtly allegorical portrait of a fast-changing but also timeless China. Hierarchy, the emphasis on conformity and individual achievement all play a part in Ma Zhe's probe. An audio tape that lovers use to communicate, the sighting of a long-haired woman, the elderly victim's adoption of a mentally challenged man – these are clues not just into the killings but also the prevalent value system in an authoritarian, rule-bound country. Cinematographer Zhiyuan Chengma brilliantly captures the period detail, with the use of 16mm film stock adding texture and layers to the plot. Chengma's contribution is felt not just in the noirish scenes but also in the moments between Ma Zhe and his wife. Zhu Yilong makes a fine policeman, as mysterious as his target. The ending of Only the River Flows raises questions rather than supplying pat answers. It's that kind of movie. Play
The Sun
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
‘Gou Li Hao Xi' – Groundbreaking musical explores mental health with warmth and heart
THE stage is set for a powerful and moving theatrical experience as Gou Li Hao Xi makes its much-anticipated debut at the Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC) this September. A first-of-its-kind original Mandarin-language musical by KK Wong, the production boldly addresses mental health through uplifting music, dance, and heartfelt storytelling. Blending vibrant choreography, soul-stirring melodies, and human-centred narratives, Gou Li Hao Xi seeks to destigmatise emotional struggles such as anxiety, depression, and burnout—issues still often unspoken within Asian communities. Instead of a sombre tone, the musical embraces joy, compassion, and hope to encourage healing and connection. At the heart of the show lies a simple yet resonant message: 'Take the first step, and love will be there—every day is a new beginning.' This 2025 production marks KK Wong's first role as executive producer, and sees the return of acclaimed director Ryon Lee to the stage after 15 years. Music is helmed by celebrated duo Jiahui Wu and Chan Yi Yi, with each composition and movement crafted to offer solace and strength to those battling emotional turmoil. The star-studded cast includes Cheryl Lee, Orange Tan, Rickman Chia, Loo Aye Keng, Remon Lim, Wayne Cai, Kopi Lim, Reno Lee, and Terry Ong—who also co-produces the show. Adding fresh energy are four rising stars—Richard Tan, Olio Tan, Andrew Lim, and JY Lim—selected through a nationwide audition. 'In a time where emotional exhaustion is a growing concern, we need art that heals,' said KK Wong. 'Through musical theatre, we hope to spark conversations, deepen empathy, and offer audiences both entertainment and comfort.' In a show of social commitment, part of the proceeds will be donated to the Life Line Association Malaysia, a national mental health support hotline. Gou Li Hao Xi will run from 26 to 28 September 2025, with tickets priced between RM88 and RM228. A limited-time early bird promotion offers up to 25% off with the code EB25, valid until July 9 on
First Post
26-06-2025
- Politics
- First Post
China Accuses CIA of 'Baffling Incompetence' Over Recruitment Videos Firstpost America
China Accuses CIA of 'Baffling Incompetence' Over Recruitment Videos | Firstpost America | N18G China Accuses CIA of 'Baffling Incompetence' Over Recruitment Videos | Firstpost America | N18G China's Ministry of State Security has launched a fresh attack on the CIA, criticising its recent Mandarin-language recruitment videos as amateurish and absurd. In a statement published on Chinese social media and fully published by a media outlet, Beijing accused the US of violating international norms and suffering internal CIA turmoil. The criticism follows earlier Chinese condemnation in May over the same videos. Meanwhile, Washington has charged Chinese hackers, sanctioned a tech firm, and announced rewards for information on alleged cyber activities. Both nations continue to trade espionage accusations amid escalating intelligence tensions. Watch to know more. See More
Yahoo
08-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Trump's CIA director details strategy using Mandarin videos to tap Chinese dissent for intelligence gains
CIA Director John Ratcliffe detailed the reasoning behind the agency's strategy of releasing two Mandarin-language videos aimed at encouraging Chinese nationals to reach out through the dark web, part of a broader effort to gather intelligence from inside America's top adversary. In an interview on "My View with Lara Trump," Ratcliffe said the initiative was designed to tap into dissatisfaction among Chinese citizens and collect key information on the Chinese Communist Party [CCP] and its operations. "We released two Mandarin-speaking videos to the Chinese people, inviting them to contact us through the dark web because a lot of the people in China are not happy with what's happening," he shared on Saturday. Cia Videos Aim To Turn Chinese Officials And 'Steal Secrets' "They can be great sources of intelligence for us." The campaign was part of a larger strategy to counter threats from foreign and domestic adversaries and bolster U.S. leverage in high-stakes negotiations, including President Donald Trump's efforts to secure deals with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Read On The Fox News App Cia Director Says China Is #1 Priority, Poses Biggest Challenge From Adversary In Us History Ratcliffe also emphasized his commitment to depoliticizing the CIA and returning the agency to its core mission of intelligence-gathering – not political interference. He cited the use of the Steele dossier and attitudes that dismissed the Hunter Biden laptop as "Russian disinformation" as evidence. "Those were the types of politicization that really tarnish what the intelligence community is supposed to do," he said. "We're supposed to be apolitical, and that's what President Trump wants me to be. We're going to be better. We're gonna get back to what made the CIA great."Original article source: Trump's CIA director details strategy using Mandarin videos to tap Chinese dissent for intelligence gains
The Star
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Capturing country's diversity through art
Penangite's solo exhibition at Bukit Jalil mall features unity through texture, colour and emotion A PENANG-born artist is capturing the essence of Malaysia's unity and beauty through vibrant textured paintings that celebrate diversity, nature and positive energy. Sandy Lau Lai Pheng, 55, channels her multicultural upbringing into artwork that explores themes of harmony, belonging and the Malaysian spirit. Using textured acrylic techniques and abstract forms, she creates pieces that are both visually captivating and emotionally resonant. 'Growing up in a diverse state like Penang, taught me to appreciate my surroundings and the people around me. 'I want my paintings to evoke unity and bring good vibes,' she said during an interview at The Star's office in Jalan Hang Tuah, Melaka. Lau, who began painting professionally in 2015 after graduating from the Malaysian Institute of Art, said her work was a reflection of her life journey and love for the country's natural and cultural richness. 'I've always been passionate about art. 'It's a way for me to tell stories from my childhood, about growing up in a multiethnic community and to express the strength of our shared identity,' she said. Lau is the author of a Mandarin-language book titled Listen to My Heart, which explores personal reflections and emotional healing themes that often appear in her artwork. Her paintings blend images of hills, rivers, coastlines and everyday life to evoke nostalgia and connection. 'We may not be able to go back to the past, but we can still honour it through art,' she said. Spirituality and inner peace are also central to her creative process. 'My work often carries visions that help others find calmness and healing. 'I believe art can touch the soul and connect us in meaningful ways,' she said. Lau's solo exhibition will be held at Tsutaya Books in Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, until June 29. It features her latest series celebrating Malaysia's unity through texture, colour and emotion.
