Set in the People's Republic of China during the 1990s, the film centers on a 13-year-old substitute teacher, Wei Minzhi, in the Chinese countryside. Called in to substitute for a village teacher for one month, Wei is told not to lose any students.
In a impoverished rural village in China, a 13-year-old girl named Wei Min is tasked with looking after the class of young children while the teacher is away. She's promised a small sum of money if she can keep all the students, especially the troublesome Zhang Huike, from leaving. When Zhang Huike's family faces financial hardship and he leaves for the city to find work, Wei Min embarks on a long and arduous journey to the city to bring him back, proving her dedication and resourcefulness.
Zhang Yimou's "Not One Less" was widely acclaimed for its poignant realism and social commentary, lauded as a return to form for the director. Critics praised its authentic portrayal of rural Chinese life and the compelling performance of its young protagonist. Audiences were moved by its heartfelt story and the underlying message about the importance of education.
Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's heartwarming story and its realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by children in impoverished areas, with many commending its educational message.
Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival
The film was shot entirely on location with non-professional actors, contributing to its documentary-like realism.
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