Proven nobility

Character: Xiao Jiang

Background: Prostitute turned comfort woman

Implication: Courage

Actress: Jiang Yiyan

Character’s story: Initially, Xiao Jiang is a prostitute. A profession portrayed in a famous Tang poem by “Despite the crumbled realm the showgirl feels no somber.” However, when the Japanese soldiers demand Rabe hand over 100 comfort women from the safety zone so as to protect more people, Xiao Jiang is the first one who raises her hand to volunteer. She walks out calmly, teary-eyed, and full of pride. The character is based on a true historical figure.

Actress’ account: Very painful, in the six months after filming I have not taken on any other projects

Xiao Jiang is a woman of low status who does not get along with anyone. However, she ultimately sacrifices herself to save others, and therefore, although a nobody, she displays an admirable sense of humanity. I had not seen the script when I first joined the crew, and only knew that I was going to play a prostitute. When I joined the crew, the first scene the director asked me to act was my enrollment as a comfort woman. I thought later that maybe the director had wanted to test me– If I acted well, I would be allowed to act in other scenes, and if not, I would only act this single scene. In "City of Life and Death," every female character seems extremely tough, while in reality they are very desperate. They are, however, filled with hope because death cannot really defeat an individual. As filming progressed, the Japanese actors did not dare to look me in the eye. I thought it might be because of the strength reflected there. However, participating in this kind of film is really painful. In the six months since shooting finished, I have declined all offers of work and instead have been traveling a lot allowing myself to relax. Having seen suffering, you appreciate the beauty of life more.

Lu Chuan’s remarks: Wherever I go, I will announce that Jiang Yiyan is without doubt the surprise in this film. The prostitute she plays exhibits a very powerful character, and everyone who has seen a preview of the film likes her.