Not One Less
Rating (G)
Synopsis
When Goa, a teacher of a poor village needs to take a leave of absence, the only suitable replacement he can find is a thirteen year old girl who can barely read or write herself. The gawky young Wei is given strict instructions to maintain the current class number – when Goa returns, he expects to see the full class of 28 and not one less.
Enticed with a small fee if she is able to come through, Wei takes on her important role with a fierce determination. When one of her new students runs escapes to the city to look for work, she goes to extreme length to get him back.
Referencing the Italian neo-realism movement, director Yimou Zhang insisted on a cast made up of entirely non-professional actors. Using hidden cameras and microphones Zhang was able to capture the natural reactions from his amateur cast which result in breathtaking performances all around. Zhang’s unusual approach awarded his with a plethora of international film festival awards, including four at the 1999 Venice Film Fesitval - Golden Lion, Laterna Magica Prize, Sergio Trasatti Award, UNICEF Award.
When will this screen next?
Friday 29 October 10:25 PM
Encore Screenings
Saturday 30 October 11:55 AM
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