The Golden Era has received mixed reviews for its storyline and unconventional style.[Photo provided to China Daily]

The Golden Era has been an unconventional project from the outset. It tells the story of Xiao Hong, a woman writer known for depictions of hunger and poverty in China during the 1920s and '30s. Hui compares her works with those of Emily Bronte, who also focuses on unpleasant realities.

Ann Hui, Tang Wei pose for movie magazine

Movie posters of 'The Golden Era'

Xiao Hong isn't well-known among today's youth, despite being a leading figure during her time.

Hui believes her story reveals a brilliant period when writers believed in the power of words against war and turmoil.

The promotional poster reads: "Live the way you like. Love the way you like. And curse the way you like. Everything is free."

The film traces Xiao's 31-year life from her escape from a marriage her parents forced her into, her troubled romance with writer Xiao Jun and her subsequent marriage to another writer she didn't love. There are also detailed depictions of her career and harrowing death in a war-ravaged Hong Kong hospital.

The 80 million yuan budget is high for an art-house film.

Roughly 30 actors spent five months portraying 1930s China's literary circle.

Hui asked them to not only act but also talk directly to the camera—an approach that risks alienating audiences from feeling close to the storyline.

The 67-year-old director describes the film as an adventure and herself as a gambler.

"Filmmaking for me is like gambling. I keep trying when I lose, and I win something back. I wouldn't stop at this time but instead put more money in it."