Zhang Ziyi receives inaugural honorary achievement award at Lumière Film Festival

(ECNS) -- Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi received the inaugural Honorary Achievement Award at the 18th Lumière Film Festival in Lyon, France, on Sunday in recognition of her contributions to world cinema. 

The Cannes Film Festival's general delegate Thierry Frémaux presented the award.

Zhang also received a commemorative certificate featuring the opening frame of Workers Leaving the Lumière Factory, a landmark early film by the Lumière brothers that helped mark the birth of cinema.

"I'm truly surprised. I thought I was just here to say hello and had no idea this was planned. I love cinema. Thank you," Zhang said, visibly moved.

From Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Hero to The Grandmaster, Zhang has showcased Chinese acting talent to audiences worldwide through a series of internationally acclaimed films.

Zhang also attended the festival's opening as a guest of honor, led a master class and introduced a 4K-restored version of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon at the restoration's French premiere.

Reflecting on characters such as Jen Yu, whom she played in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Zhang said films gain meaning over time.

"Years later, when we watch and appreciate these works again, we may notice their flaws, but they cannot be replicated. That's part of cinema's appeal," she said. "Fortunately, the youngest, most headstrong and beautiful versions of me have been preserved on the big screen. Cinema is forever."

(By Helen Mo & intern Liu Shuangjing)