Michelle Yeoh Returns to Chinese-Language Cinema With Inspirational Drama ‘It’s My Time’
KUALA LUMPUR: Academy Award-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh is returning to Chinese-language cinema with It’s My Time, an inspirational drama that tells the story of resilience, determination and discovering new purpose later in life.
The film marks Yeoh’s first Chinese-language feature since her historic Best Actress Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All at Once and sees the Ipoh-born international star portraying Zhao Yanhong, a character inspired by the real-life journey of Zhejiang retiree Zhao Wenying.
Zhao Wenying gained international attention after becoming the fastest person aged over 60 to solve a Magic Cube while blindfolded, a remarkable achievement that forms the emotional foundation of the film.
For Yeoh, however, the project was never about returning to a particular language or market. Instead, she said it was the strength of the character and the message behind her story that convinced her to accept the role.
“It was never about where the film was made,” Yeoh said.
“I simply fell in love with Zhao Yanhong and her spirit.
“She reminds us that life doesn’t stop because we reach a certain age — that message felt very meaningful to me.”
To prepare for the role, Yeoh immersed herself in the daily routines of elderly women by observing them in local markets, carefully studying their body language, facial expressions and interactions in order to portray her character as naturally and authentically as possible.
One unexpected challenge came from the Magic Cube itself, which plays a central role throughout the story.
Despite portraying a woman with extraordinary cube-solving abilities, Yeoh admitted she had no prior experience solving one before filming began.
“I honestly thought, ‘How difficult can it be?’ Then I realised very quickly that it takes incredible patience and discipline.
“I definitely have a new respect for everyone who can solve one in seconds,” she said.
Meeting Zhao Wenying in person also left a lasting impression on the actress.
Rather than attempting to imitate the woman whose life inspired the film, Yeoh said she focused on capturing the kindness, humility and quiet determination that define her personality.
“She has such warmth and humility, and she never thinks she’s done anything extraordinary.
“She simply kept moving forward one step at a time.
“I did not want to imitate her; I wanted audiences to feel her heart and understand how her journey has touched so many people,” she said.
Directed and co-written by Bai Xue and produced by Wen Muye, It’s My Time follows 70-year-old Zhao Yanhong after she is sent to a nursing home by her son.
Her life takes an unexpected turn when a young coach discovers her remarkable talent for solving the Magic Cube, setting her on a journey that eventually transforms her into a television sensation.
The film premiered in China on June 30 and will open in Malaysian cinemas on July 23 through distributor Brilliant Pictures.
Alongside Yeoh, the cast includes Liu Haoran, Sa Rina, Bai Ke, Han Tongsheng, Qi Xi and Liu Yang, with special appearances by Tian Yu, Huang Yao and Chen Halin.
For Malaysian audiences, the film not only marks another milestone in Michelle Yeoh’s celebrated international career but also delivers a reminder that ambition, perseverance and personal growth have no age limit.
