Adapted from the novel Master of Mischief (1987) by Chinese writer Wang Shuo, The Troubleshooters is a groundbreaking work of contemporary Chinese comedy. Set in Beijing in the late 1980s, it tells the story of three young men who start a company that aims to solve other’s personal problems. Throughout their journey, they encounter people from all walks of life, each of whom offers a bizarre insight into a facet of contemporary society. Featuring a star-studded cast including Ge You, Zhang Guoli, and Liang Tian, the film was the inspiration for Feng Xiaogang’s 2013 comedy Personal Tailor. A realistic yet absurd portrait, The Troubleshooters incorporates unique audiovisual techniques interspersed with rock music, fashion shows, performances, and disco dancing that are just as compelling today as when the film was first released.

The screening on 3 March will be preceded by an introduction by Pi Li, Curator of Madame Song: Pioneering Art and Fashion in China in Mandarin.

Mi Jiashan (b. 1947, Hebei) is a director and screenwriter. After graduating with a degree in fine arts, he studied directing at the Beijing Film Academy. He co-directed Unending Horizon (1987) with Han Sanping at Emei Film Studio and pioneered the contracting model for directors at the state-owned studio with the making ofThe Troubleshooters in 1988.