Director Zhang Lu Premieres ‘Mothertongue’ at Tokyo Festival

Director Zhang Lu has unveiled his latest film, Mothertongue, at the Tokyo International Film Festival, following his success at the Busan International Film Festival, where he received the inaugural best film award for Gloaming in Luomo in October 2023. The two films, shot consecutively in locations a few hours apart, share lead actors, thematic elements, and even some costumes.

tells the poignant story of struggling actress Haruki, portrayed by Bai Baihe, who returns to her hometown after a decade in Beijing. Haruki’s inability to fluently speak her native dialect exacerbates her feelings of alienation. The narrative deepens as she reconnects with her old drama teacher, played by Liu Dan, who battles senility, while the teacher’s son, Wang Chuanjun, helps ground her during her emotional journey.

In a recent virtual interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Zhang reflected on the significance of his achievements and the creative process behind both films. When asked about winning the award at Busan, he emphasized the role of luck in recognition: “Winning an award is something to be happy about but not something to take too seriously. Getting an award doesn’t mean I’m better than others.”

Zhang’s journey into filmmaking has a unique origin story, reportedly stemming from a bet that anyone could direct a film. He noted, “That story about the bet is true — but that was just a catalyst. The impulse was already there.” His early sensitivity to sound and images laid the groundwork for his future in cinema.

With a background in literature, Zhang has often expressed the notion that his transition from writing to directing was more of a career evolution than a complete departure. “I divorced literature and married cinema,” he explained, “but the love from the first one lingers and shapes the later ones.” For Zhang, the emotional core unites both mediums, allowing him to explore complex human experiences.

The themes of migration and estrangement resonate deeply in Zhang’s work, often reflecting his own experiences as a Korean-Chinese individual. He noted, “I’m descended from immigrants: my grandparents moved from Korea to China. I’ve lived most of my life in constant motion, in unsettled environments.” These personal narratives emerge naturally in his films, shaping his characters and their journeys.

and Gloaming in Luomo are interlinked, sharing both cast and thematic concerns. Zhang described how the idea for emerged during a brief stop in Luomu after finishing . Captivated by the air and history of Luomu, he felt compelled to create another film. “I told the lead actors: ‘I don’t know what the story is yet, but I really want to make another film here right away,’” he recalled.

The creative process for both films was collaborative and organic. Zhang started with minimal outlines, allowing the actors to contribute their vitality to the performances. “When you start from something open, undefined, the actors respond instinctively,” he explained. This hands-on approach fosters a natural dialogue among characters, leading to authentic emotional connections on screen.

Zhang’s refusal to adhere to conventional narratives reflects his belief that true emotion resides in human interactions. “Only within the small, specific interactions between people can you glimpse a person’s genuine rhythm and true emotions,” he stated. As he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, Zhang remains open to the possibility of creating a more conventional film structure in the future, though he humorously acknowledged that it would require substantial resources.

As Mothertongue premieres in Tokyo, the film promises to resonate with audiences, exploring themes of disconnection and the quest for belonging through Zhang’s distinctive lens. The director’s journey, marked by a blend of personal history and artistic exploration, showcases the profound impact of place and emotion in storytelling.