China on Screen: Must-Watch Films Playing in April
- Sandra Bachmann
- Apr 16
- 2 min read
Zurich is buzzing with stories from China—on the big screen. Whether you're into sweeping historical epics, indie gems, or the latest arthouse buzz, this spring brings a diverse set of Chinese films to local cinemas. We’ve curated a small selection to pique your curiosity and deepen your understanding of China through its cinematic lens.
⭐️ Jia Zhang-Ke - different film screenings
Filmpodium, Nüschelerstrasse 11, 8001 Zürich
1 April - 15 May 2025
more info and screening times
Jia's diverse cinematic styles—ranging from gangster epics to melodramas, neorealistic street cinema, and documentaries—create a compelling visual language. With the premiere of his latest film, "Caught by the Tides" (2024), a delicate love story filmed over 23 years, we reflect on his unique body of work. On April 23 and 24, Filmpodium welcomes Tony Rayns, a leading expert on Chinese cinema and longtime follower of Jia's work.
⭐️ Escape from the 21st Century
Brugggore Film Festival, Schulthess-Allee 1, 5200 Brugg
23 April 2025, 20:30
Discovering you can time travel 20 years with a sneeze is truly life-changing. That's the reality for a group of teens from Planet K, who must navigate youth's hurdles while saving the world. The film "ESCAPE FROM THE 21ST CENTURY" captures this with relentless energy, humor, and jaw-dropping special effects, showcasing the pinnacle of modern cinematic technology.
⭐️ Only the River Flows
STATTKINO Luzern, Bourbaki Panorama, Löwenplatz 11, Luzern
25 April 2025, 18:00 - 20:00
"Only the River Flows" has all the elements of a classic crime thriller. Yet, the adaptation of a novella by author Yu Hua is much more than that. Director Wei Shujun masterfully intertwines the protagonist's investigations with his personal downward spiral and societal constraints. The tone is dark, and the atmosphere is damp and cold. However, occasional quirky humor breaks lighten the proceedings.
Introduction to the film and, after the screening, a discussion with Andrea Riemenschnitter, emeritus professor of Modern Chinese Language and Literature.
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