Gao Ye Recalls 13 Years Later Cooperation with Zhang Yimou: Gained 15 Pounds on Set

Sina Movies reports that at the press conference of "The Twentieth Clause," Gao Ye reminisced about working with Zhang Yimou after a thirteen-year hiatus. As early as 2010, Gao Ye had played a role in "In the Realm of the Senses" when she was still a senior in college.

Gao Ye expressed a unique feeling of finally having her turn to collaborate with director Yimou: "I thought I wouldn't be nervous about acting, but on the first day of shooting, I could hear my own heartbeat. I even thought, 'The microphone is right here; can everyone hear my heartbeat?' I sought advice from actor Lei Jiayin, and he said, 'You're nervous; who isn't nervous?'"

"Thirteen years ago, I gained 15 pounds on Yimou's set because the food was so delicious. This time, although the chef hasn't changed, I chose not to indulge and resisted."

Zhang Yimou also revealed that Gao Ye had once considered transitioning to behind the scenes but persevered on the path of an actress: "It's her effort and persistence that everyone sees. Thirteen years ago, she wanted to switch to behind the scenes and be an assistant director. At that time, she only played a small role, but she felt relaxed. I told Gao Ye, 'You should stick to acting.' She represents perseverance and the pursuit of performance. Even though she played small supporting roles in many films, she persisted, and there will be a day of reward."