Zhang Miaoyi addresses criticisms of her performance in "The Dream of the Red Chamber"
22 Aug - Zhang Miaoyi has recently taken to social media to express her thoughts over the criticisms against her portrayal of Lin Daiyu in "The Dream of the Red Chamber".
The actress, who plays the character in the movie version of the 18th-century Chinese novel authored by Cao Xueqin, expressed her thoughts on Weibo, saying that she has read a lot of criticisms about her performance as the character.
"Although I was mentally prepared, these days were still difficult. I have mixed feelings. Everyone would feel sad if they were scolded. Who doesn't have a sense of shame if they want to live a good life? But if I ask myself, would I still take this role if I can go back to seven years ago? I can't lie to myself. I would definitely take it," she expressed.
Zhang said that she was a newcomer when the offer came to her, and that the ignorance led to fearlessness. And it was because of that ignorance that she survived a talent show with thousands of participants and did her very best during the eight months preparation for the movie.
"Call me ugly, it doesn't matter, my appearance is natural and cannot be changed. That was me at that time. Call me superficial, that's fine, I can only grow through life experiences. The hardships of life will make me grow. After playing more roles in the past seven years, I know where my problems lie. I also believe that I am getting better and I will work hard to do better," she expressed.
However, Zhang said that she felt sorry for the director Hu Mei following the criticisms, especially since the director has put the most effort into the film.
"I think that the huge controversy and attention caused by "A Dream of Red Mansions" will be good for the popularisation of Chinese classical masterpieces if more people buy the original book to read and look for classic works to read. I will always remember the role of "Lin Daiyu" and it will always motivate myself," she added.
(Photo Source: On CC, SINA, China Times)
