In the Chinese film industry, there is an experienced actor whose name may not be familiar to the audience but whose roles are deeply imprinted in their minds. 

He is Wang Yanhui, who played a hypocritical drug dealer in "Dying to Survive" and a criminal on trial in "The Dead End." Wang spoke to CGTN after the opening of the 3rd Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIIFF) in Sanya, Hainan Province on December 5.

In the interview, Wang described HIIFF as a fresh and vibrant festival where insiders gather. Filmmakers and the media can meet there to discuss film creation and development. In addition, the HIIFF held the first offline red carpet since the COVID-19 pandemic began, an achievement that deserves people's attention.

Throughout Wang's career, whether as the hated fake drug dealer in "Dying to Survive," or Tang Wanyuan in Chinese thriller drama "A or B" who is blinded by the desire for money, the characters he plays always leave a long-lasting impression. 

He told CGTN that there are only small actors, no small roles: no matter how big the role is, it should be worthy of a fine performance and also have a shining point.

"Because every flower needs a green leaf to accompany it," he added.

This year, Wang brought more of his work to the big screen. "Model," a feature-length film written and directed by young director Jing Ran and starring Shang Yuxian and Wang Yanhui, is among the nominees for director and actress of the year.

The film was also shortlisted in the 23rd Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) Asian New Talent Award section, and after screening has achieved good reviews.

The film's premiere and post-screening press conference will take place on December 10 and 11 respectively at Sanya Haitang Bay of HIIFF 2020.

(Cover image made by Zhang Zhijie)