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.
| Tagline | In her village, she was the teacher. In the city, she discovered how much she had to learn. |
| Release Date: | Oct 30, 1999 |
| Genres: | Drama |
| Production Company: | Guangxi Film Studio, Bejing New Picture Distribution Company, Film Productions Asia, Columbia Pictures, CP Film Production Asia |
| Production Countries: | China, Hong Kong, United States of America |
| Casts: | Wei Minzhi, Zhang Huike, Tian Zhenda, Gao Enman, Sun Zhimei, Feng Yuying, Li Fanfan, Zhang Yichang, Zhanqing Xu, Liu Hanzhi, Ma Guolin |
| Status: | Released |
| Budget: | $0 |
| Revenue: | 0 |
The film Not One Less, adapted from Shi Xiansheng’s 1997 story A Sun in the Sky, highlights the real-life struggles of providing education in rural China during the 1990s. With a focus on the nation’s compulsory nine-year education policy, it brings attention to children who are forced to drop out due to poverty and work obligations. This issue remains relevant today, with dropout rates still present in many parts of the world, including Indonesia. Director Zhang Yimou used non-professional actors in their real-life roles, making the film’s emotional depth feel raw and authentic. Wei Minzhi’s portrayal as a determined substitute teacher stands out for her effort and realism, including unscripted moments like falling while chasing a vehicle. The linear plot and straightforward dialogue enhance the film’s sincerity and relatability. Beyond its awards and acclaim, the film delivers a strong message on the importance of equal access to education. It emphasizes that the responsibility to support children's learning doesn’t rest solely on governments. As members of society, we all have a role in ensuring education reaches even the most remote communities. Read the full review here: (Indonesian version : alunauwie.com)
