Judge Zhan

The film is a courtroom-themed, socially conscious drama based on the real-life story of Judge Zhan Hongli, head of the Juvenile Court at the Yanping District Court in Nanping, Fujian. It portrays her dedication to rehabilitating troubled youth and highlights the compassion, resilience, and professionalism of judges in the new era. Played by Wu Junmei, the character of Judge Zhan has worked in the judiciary for 27 years, over a decade of which was spent in juvenile justice. She presided over more than 500 juvenile criminal cases: without a single retrial, wrongful conviction, complaint, or appeal. Her work successfully guided over 1,100 young offenders toward a better path and helped repair more than 70 families on the brink of collapse.

Directed by Dong Ling, Judge Zhan leans on a strong ensemble — Vivian Wu, Liao Jingsheng, Tang Yinuo — 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 2012.