TV Actress Reminisces on Shanghai's Changes over Past 40 Yrs

Zhang Zhihua, a native actress from Shanghai, recently gave an interview to talk about the changes of women in the coastal international city over the past 40 years as reflected in her modern TV roles.

For example, she said that during her research for the character she plays in the recently released TV series Pudong she conducted particularly careful, in-depth studies.

"The large scale lay-off of 320,000 textile workers in the 90s was a major event in Shanghai's reform and opening-up. The mother in the drama is from this group. She is plain and capable, and was sensible in following the leadership of the Party. She has not lived an affluent life; she was never afraid of the changes brought about by the times," said Zhang.

Zhang has also depicted a plump woman in the series Tolls of the Bund.

She said, "People often say women in the big city of Shanghai are urban petty bourgeois, who are always gossiping and scheming. Meanwhile, that woman is classy and always pursues a quality life despite her low economic and social status.

"We wanted to tell the audience that life is promising, and we want to show  Shanghai people's love towards life," said Zhang.

Zhang added that she may not be able to fully showcase the financial innovations, prosperity and development of the city, but she can give a good depiction of the middle-aged women living in the local alleys.

"Peace is a blessing for us ordinary people, and it is the achievements of the country's reform and opening-up. It has provided us with a better life and broader path for our children's development," Zhang added.

(Source: Cnwomen.cn/ Translated and edited by Women of China)