Act two, take one: banned filmmaker directs Beijing Opening Night spectacle

The World

Renegade filmmaker Zhang Yimou (“Hero,” “The Road Home,” “Shanghai Triad,” “To Live,” “Ju Dou”) is the mastermind behind Beijing’s Opening Night’s ceremonies. His films, which often showcased China’s ugly side to the outside world, were banned by the Chinese government and seldom seen by his fellow countrymen. Tonight’s ceremonies symbolize the conversion of Mr. Zhang, from a censored filmmaker to one of China’s most celebrated artists.
Guest: David Barboza, New York Times reporter

Tell us about your experience accessing The World

We want to hear your feedback so we can keep improving our website, theworld.org. Please fill out this quick survey and let us know your thoughts (your answers will be anonymous). Thanks for your time!