Zhang Zixian

Chen Sicheng’s (陈思诚) suspense thriller Malice (恶意) has ignited nationwide discourse with its unflinching critique of digital-age morality. Starring Zhang Xiaofei (张小斐) and Zhang Zixian (张子贤) as former allies turned ideological foes, the film dissects China’s obsession with viral content through a high-stakes ethical duel. Since its July 5 release, Malice has defied industry expectations—grossing nearly ¥200 million ($27.5M) amid fierce competition. Its Sunday-to-Monday box office surge, overtaking Hollywood blockbusters Jurassic World: Rebirth and F1: The Movie (F1：狂飙飞车), signals resonant storytelling. Central to its impact is a pivotal showdown where journalist Ye Pan (Zhang Xiaofei) denounces media mogul Xiao Baoqian’s (Zhang Zixian) ruthless tactics: "Stop acting like wolves—why not be human?" This confrontation crystallizes the film’s thesis: Truth cannot coexist with click-driven sensationalism. Journalistic Integrity Versus Viral Hunger The film’s explosive "Bottom Line Clash" scene exposes journalism’s moral decay. When Xiao Baoqian’s (萧保乾) company deliberately leaks ICU footage of cancer-stricken mother You Qian (尤茜)—framing her as a child murderer—Ye Pan (叶攀) storms his headquarters during a blackout. Their argument escalates as Xiao justifies manipulating tragedy for traffic, declaring "public interest" a facade for profit. Zhang Xiaofei’s controlled fury contrasts Zhang Zixian’s smug pragmatism, embodying China’s real-world debates about media responsibility.…