Huang tang shi jian

Adapted from Zhang Yu's "The Appendix" and Chen Jun's "A Boring Story," the story revolves around Zhao Youliang, the mayor of a certain city, who holds significant power. However, his actions are constantly monitored closely by his secretary and wife, with the best intentions, making it difficult for him to act freely according to his own will, which distresses him. To implement the higher authorities' instructions for clean and honest governance, he begins to act alone frequently, wandering the streets and alleys like an ordinary citizen. He feels relaxed and enlightened, gaining insights he couldn't obtain from sitting in his office.

Directed by Li Xin, Huang tang shi jian leans on a strong ensemble — Zhao Youliang, Guan Zongxiang, Zhang Tianxi — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1990.