In cinema, what we hear is often as powerful as what we see.

Sound builds atmosphere, shapes characters, and guides emotion, driving the story forward. In post-production, sound becomes a form of "secondary creation," capable of completely transforming a film, said sound designer Zhao Nan. Zhao, whose credits include Shadow, Full River Red, Cliff Walkers and Snipers, has spent over two decades crafting stories through sound. 

By amplifying subtle details – like a restless hand, a faint hum, or even silence – sound can shift a scene from objective reality to a subjective experience, revealing a character's inner world, Zhao explains.

From footsteps to door closing, Zhao can read emotions through everyday noise. She continues to push beyond her field by drawing inspiration from visual arts, design, music and more.

Executive producer: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Directors: Chen Hongyu, Zhao Ying

Cameraman: Han Xu

Cover: Zhang Tao