Jia
Zhang-Ke

Awardee

Country

China (People's Republic of)

Jia Zhang-ke promotes free expression through film.

Themes
Free Expression / Civil Society
Disciplines
Film
Awards
Archive - Prince Claus Laureate 2010

Profile

Jia Zhang-ke is a filmmaker based in China. Known for his narratives that often reflect on societal changes and the human condition within Chinese culture, Jia has become a voice in contemporary cinema. His practice frequently explores themes of globalisation, identity, and the impact of China's political history on its citizens.Some of his most acclaimed works include "Still Life," which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival in 2006, and "A Touch of Sin," which was awarded Best Screenplay at Cannes in 2013. Jia's films have been showcased internationally, including at the Cannes, Venice, and Berlin film festivals, cementing his reputation as a storyteller with a critical eye on societal shifts. He studied at the Beijing Film Academy, which shaped his cinematic style and narrative approach. Through his films, Jia Zhang-ke creates a dialogue about the transformative impacts of modernity on traditional cultures, making a significant contribution to both cinema and social commentary.