After winning the Best Actress award at the Venice International Film Festival, Xin Zhilei (辛芷蕾) gave herself a five-day break to cool down.
She is only the third Chinese actress to receive this honor, after Gong Li and Deanie Ip, and the first born after 1985 to win Best Actress at one of the three major international film festivals. The prestige speaks for itself.
While the public is thrilled, Xin describes her own joy as "like a pressure cooker finally releasing steam." She needed time to calm down and let the excitement settle.
Having just returned to China, she placed her trophy at home among fresh flowers and jokingly praised herself: "I'm amazing, I'm so incredible!" Off-camera, Xin Zhilei remains the same candid, humorous girl from Northeast China.
Yesterday evening, she gave her first post-victory interview with Yuli Studio. On the call, her happiness radiated through the phone. She shared the warm congratulations she's received from colleagues and friends—a support system she finds deeply moving.
"It's not easy for actresses in their middle years," she said. "None of us made it alone. We're all shining in our own ways."
Xin also reflected on her past doubts, realizing that focusing less on awards and more on the work often brings greater rewards. Her ambition has always been clear. Back in 2018, she boldly wrote, "I am international superstar Xin Zhilei." Today, she's made it come true.
At Venice, even when signaled to finish her acceptance speech, she held on to the microphone and delivered her message: "To every girl: if you have a dream, dare to dream it and dare to do it. One day, it might just come true."
Her win isn't only a personal triumph—it's an inspiration to many.
"Coming from an ordinary background, I hope my story can bring hope to others," she told Yuli Studio.
My Phone Nearly Exploded with Heartfelt Congratulations
Yuli: How have you spent your days since returning home?
Xin Zhilei: Sleeping, adjusting to the time difference, and catching up on news. It's been emotional. This award is a huge honor. But as I calm down, I feel maybe there's been too much praise for me alone. I hope people also focus on the film. A movie doesn't get into competition if it isn't strong—it's the result of an entire crew's effort. I hope more people support Chinese cinema.
Yuli: Netizens are revisiting your past work. Any comment that touched you most?
Xin Zhilei: When people said I brought honor to our country. Holding the trophy on the red carpet, I felt such pride as a Chinese actress.
Yuli: People also noticed you refused to cut your acceptance speech short.
Xin Zhilei: The time was enough—it just felt longer because of translation. Still, such moments are rare; I had to finish. But really, everyone should learn a foreign language well!
Yuli: How many messages have you received these days?
Xin Zhilei: My phone nearly exploded! Almost every friend I've worked with reached out. Gong Li, through mutual friends, said she'd seen my work and was proud of me. Zhou Xun also sent wishes. Ni Ni was congratulating me even before the winner was announced! After it became official, nearly all the actors I know sent messages. Our "Big Dipper" group of seven close actress friends all chimed in—it's been overwhelming.
Every director I've worked with wrote too. Wong Kar-wai joked, "Stop grinning so widely—where's your elegance?" but also reminded me: "Opportunities are everywhere now—stay true to yourself." Director Cao Baoping even predicted this back in July. He said, "I hope you win." I laughed, but he insisted he had a feeling. Turns out he was right.
What touched me most were messages from peers of my generation. Zhao Liying called me by a character name from a past drama: "Big sis, I'm so happy for you!" Ni Ni wrote: "I'm envious and a little jealous, but proud of you! Dress well and represent us all!" They were all so supportive.
That's why I don't like seeing netizens use my win to put down others. That's not the right spirit. We're all growing together. It's not easy for mid-career actresses, but everyone has their own light. We should celebrate one another.
For Xin Zhilei, this award is not the finish line but a turning point. She wants audiences to see her not just as a star but as part of a collective effort to elevate Chinese cinema on the world stage.
She is also aware of the responsibilities that come with sudden global attention. Friends and directors remind her to remain grounded, to keep her unique humor and honesty, and to use this moment to open more doors—not only for herself, but for others following behind.
The support from her peers proves that despite the competitive nature of the industry, there is solidarity. "It's already not easy for any of us," she says. "Why not celebrate each other's light?"
This Award Isn't Mine Alone
Yuli: Before the ceremony, there were already rumors you might win. How did you feel when the whispers started but the trophy wasn't yet in your hands?
Xin Zhilei: I tried not to think about it. I went in with no expectation of winning and told myself not to assume anything. I didn't want to be disappointed, so I kept calm.
Still, there were hints. Reporters were calling my name, and when I bumped into the festival chairman, he congratulated me—I thought it was for the film's selection. I thanked him and moved on, but those little signs planted a spark of hope. Even then, when my name was called, I was genuinely surprised. The moment I stepped on stage, I reminded myself I was representing Chinese cinema and actresses—I had to carry myself with grace.
Yuli: What was going through your mind right before the winner was announced?
Xin Zhilei: It felt sudden. Best Actress was the first award after the performance—I didn't expect it so quickly. When I heard my name, I couldn't believe it. I thought, "Well, the netizens called it!"
Yuli: In the press interview, you said you truly deserved it—a very confident response.
Xin Zhilei: By then I'd heard the jury's decision was unanimous. I felt proud and thought, "Yes, I earned this." Maybe I sounded boastful, but it was a rare achievement and it caught me off guard.
Yuli: This year's competition was especially tough.
Xin Zhilei: They were all extraordinary actresses. Just being nominated alongside them was already an honor. Looking at their photos, I thought, "Look who I'm standing with." Winning was beyond imagination.
Yuli: Did Zhao Tao give you any hints beforehand?
Xin Zhilei: No, judges aren't accessible before the awards. I only saw her on stage, and it felt like meeting family abroad. When we hugged, I nearly cried. Her "Congratulations" was deeply moving.
Yuli: Did you talk with her afterwards?
Xin Zhilei: We were supposed to have dinner together, but I was delayed with interviews and she'd already left. I really wanted to thank her for speaking up for Chinese cinema. Missing that chance is one of my regrets.
Yuli: Who do you dedicate this award to?
Xin Zhilei: To everyone on our film. It's not just mine—it belongs to the whole team and to Chinese cinema.
"International Superstar" Has Always Driven Me
Yuli: Before Venice, you wrote in a VOGUE questionnaire that your next goal was a solo cover. Right after you returned, the magazine made it happen.
Xin Zhilei: I've realized the universe sends signals—if you never forget what you want, it echoes back. Even I find it magical.
Yuli: People admire how openly you express ambition.
Xin Zhilei: Sometimes you need to speak your goals out loud to motivate yourself and create opportunities. Why shy away? We're not asking for the impossible—we're working for it. If I want something, I go after it. There's nothing shameful in that—it's something to be proud of. I hope every girl lets go of outdated restraints and moves forward boldly.
Yuli: Back in 2018, you wrote on Weibo, "I am international superstar Xin Zhilei." Do you remember that moment?
Xin Zhilei: It's been a powerful motivator. Whenever I was exhausted in workouts or runs, I pictured that applause. Those images kept me going—and now they've become reality.
Yuli: Did you imagine which festival it would be?
Xin Zhilei: I didn't dare picture Venice—it felt too far. I never expected the universe to hand me such a gift. From the start, my role models were Maggie Cheung, Gong Li, Zhou Xun—that's the standard I aspired to. Why not say it out loud? How else will the universe hear?
Yuli: What would you say now to your 2018 self?
Xin Zhilei: You were brave, you were amazing, and you made it happen.
Perseverance, Not Perfection
Yuli: How does it feel that your first major award is Best Actress at Venice?
Xin Zhilei: It's incredibly special—like receiving a giant gift. But you have to persevere. If you give up, it may never come. I'm glad I held on and finally got this "big package." I want to use it meaningfully and not take it for granted.
Yuli: Before this, no award had recognized your acting. Did you ever feel discouraged?
Xin Zhilei: Of course. But eventually you stop dwelling. "Staying true to your original aspiration" isn't just a phrase. When I performed the Chinese adaptation of Prima Facie, my only goal was to deliver its message, test my limits, and let Tessa's voice be heard. Awards didn't matter. I realized that when you do something without chasing trophies, greater rewards often come.
If you only act for an outcome, you may end up with nothing. Free your mind, focus on what matters, do it well—and it will repay you.
Yuli: When did you doubt yourself the most?
Xin Zhilei: Right before Prima Facie. My mind was full of distractions, though they passed quickly. That play changed me. I went in without expectations, yet it led to an award. That felt like confirmation I was on the right path.
Yuli: I saw that performance. The script was powerful, and your solo act was nearly flawless.
Xin Zhilei: Honestly, even if Heart of Summer (日掛中天) hadn't won, I wouldn't regret it. I gave everything, and our film was seen internationally—that alone was meaningful. With that mindset, I wasn't overly nervous before going on stage.
Yuli: How do you handle doubts and distractions?
Xin Zhilei: You have to process and comfort yourself—it's part of growing. No one is born wise. Everyone needs that journey. Looking back, I'm grateful I faced those moments openly.
Winning at 39—Everything Happened at the Right Time
Yuli: How did your family react after your win?
Xin Zhilei: I thanked my mom on stage. Before that, she only knew I was going abroad for work but didn't know the specifics. When she found out my film was selected for Venice, she texted me—crying one moment, bursting with pride the next. After I won, she was laughing and crying at the same time. My mom and my brother are the softest parts of my heart. My mom thinks she's amazing for raising such an outstanding daughter—she's mostly praising herself, haha.
Yuli: Netizens also rediscovered a heartfelt long post you wrote in 2016 before attending the Berlin Film Festival, documenting your first experience at an international film festival. From Berlin to Venice—two moments shining on the international stage—what do these memories mean to you?
Xin Zhilei: The first time, I was completely clueless—like Grandma Liu entering the Grand View Garden (a Chinese idiom meaning someone inexperienced marveling at new splendors). I remember staring at the incredibly red carpet and the blinding flashbulbs. "Crosscurrent" was my first leading role, and it was my first time attending one of the three major international film festivals. Back then, I didn't fully grasp the significance—I just thought it was fun, eating and drinking every day… I even gained weight.
But this time was completely different. Maybe it's growth—I felt I was representing not just myself or our crew, but Chinese cinema as a whole. Suddenly, there was this sense of honor and responsibility.
Yuli: Having two opportunities to shine at major international film festivals is also quite rare.
Xin Zhilei: I feel incredibly lucky, like the goddess of fortune smiled on me.
Yuli: Looking back now, which works do you feel were especially significant in your growth?
Xin Zhilei: Honestly, every project matters—they're all connected, and each one was necessary. "Crosscurrent," even my earliest TV drama "Embrace the Star's Moon," then "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace," "Mr. Right," "Brotherhood of Blades II," "Blossoms Shanghai"… every one of them was crucial. It's because of these works that I've gained the insights and understanding I have today.
Yuli: You've worked across both film and television. After this win, many are wondering—will you focus mainly on movies from now on?
Xin Zhilei: Probably not. I've always enjoyed acting itself—it doesn't matter to me whether it's TV dramas or films. As long as the role moves me and interests me, I'll take it. Each format has its own unique appeal: TV dramas, stage plays, films—they're all different, and I love them all. One isn't inherently better or more prestigious than the other. I'll follow my interests like I always have, playing roles I want to play. I don't want to be confined by any label.
Yuli: You won at 39. How do you feel about the timing?
Xin Zhilei: Everything happened just as it should. There's no "perfect moment"—every step I've taken has led me here. Sooner or later wouldn't have been better than today. Today is the most perfect timing. Like Director Wong Kar-wai said, now is just the beginning of my best years.
I'm grateful this award came when I'm 39—with life experience and the ability to fully embody roles. If it had happened earlier, I wouldn't have been ready. If I'd received it when I lacked the skill, I couldn't have handled it. That wouldn't have been a good thing.
Taking Five Days to Cool Down
Yuli: You mentioned earlier that Wong Kar-wai advised you to carefully evaluate the opportunities coming your way. Now, just a couple of days after winning, have you already noticed new offers appearing?
Xin Zhilei: I'm not sure—you'd have to ask my agent. After getting back, I told them I needed about five days to myself to cool down. I asked them not to update me about work matters during this time. I want to calm down and think things through clearly. I don't want to stay in this overexcited state—it could cloud my judgment. I hope to steady myself first before gradually easing back into work.
Yuli: Why five days?
Xin Zhilei: Haha, because I have work scheduled after that. I just wanted these few days completely free.
Yuli: It's your second day back—by now, how much has the excitement settled?
Xin Zhilei: I'm gradually calming down. I'd say I'm about 30% cooler now. The first few days felt like a pressure cooker blowing off steam—I'm slowly releasing that energy. If I don't, it might just explode.
Yuli: How would you describe your happiest moment throughout this experience?
Xin Zhilei: To be honest, I didn't cry on stage when accepting the award—I was just a bit choked up. But it hit me afterward.
Yuli: We can imagine—in the quiet of the night, when the world feels entirely yours, there must have been a lot of emotions.
Xin Zhilei: I kept looking at the trophy and praising myself: "I'm amazing, I'm so incredible!" Then a moment later, I'd say, "You've come such a long way," and then remind myself to stay calm, stay calm.
Yuli: That's adorable. Were you saying these things out loud or just thinking them?
Xin Zhilei: Oh, I said them out loud—haha, it feels better that way.
Yuli: Where have you placed the trophy at home?
Xin Zhilei: It's on a table, surrounded by colorful fresh flowers I bought. It looks beautiful—like it's blossoming.
Yuli: Now that you hold such an important accolade as the Venice Best Actress award, what's your next goal?
Xin Zhilei: I haven't thought that far yet. I'm still processing this huge achievement. Broadly speaking, I'll keep working hard and focus on acting sincerely. I'll share specifics once I figure them out.
Yuli: For instance, when it comes to selecting projects, will you have stronger preferences or requirements for directors or co-stars?
Xin Zhilei: Not for now. What matters most will always be the script—it's the foundation of any project. I really hope more people will watch Heart of Summer—it has an excellent script, a brilliant director, and is a truly compelling story.
Yuli: Winning this award has cemented your place in film history, and you're still at your creative peak—this is only the beginning. How do you feel about leaving a legacy in cinema?
Xin Zhilei: It feels incredible. It means even when I'm no longer here, my name will remain. That's surreal. And to be listed among so many remarkable actors—all I feel is pride.
Yuli: We look forward to your future works.
Xin Zhilei: I also hope to take on more meaningful roles and build a stronger filmography. There's still a long road ahead—I'm in no rush.
