Waiting Until Smoke is Warm and Rain is Gone

In a remote village, a young woman, desperate to break free from her oppressive life and marriage, sets off on a journey. She encounters various characters and situations that challenge her perceptions of freedom and belonging. The film explores themes of isolation, desire, and the search for identity in a traditional society.

Zhang Tao's debut feature garnered attention on the festival circuit for its stark visual style and raw portrayal of a woman's internal struggle. While praised for its artistic ambition and unique atmosphere, some found its pacing slow and its narrative elliptical.

• Praised for its striking cinematography and atmospheric tension.

• Commended for its sensitive exploration of a woman's psychological journey.

• Criticized by some for its deliberate pacing and ambiguous storytelling.

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Screened at the Shanghai International Film Festival.

The film was shot in a remote village in China, using natural light to enhance its evocative and often melancholic atmosphere.