The Assassin

2015 · 2h00 · Film

Directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien

Starring Shu Qi, Chang Chen, Zhou Yun, Satoshi Tsumabuki, Ni Dahong, Yong Mei, Lei Zhenyu, Nikki Hsieh, Ethan Juan, Sheu Fang-Yi

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9th century China. Ten year old general’s daughter Nie Yinniang is abducted by a nun who initiates her into the martial arts, transforming her into an exceptional assassin charged with eliminating cruel and corrupt local governors. One day, having failed in a task, she is sent back by her mistress to the land of her birth, with orders to kill the man to whom she was promised - a cousin who now leads the largest military region in North China. After 13 years of exile, the young woman must confront her parents, her memories and her long-repressed feelings.

Original title

刺客聶隱娘

Original language

Chinese

Country

Hong Kong SAR China, Taiwan

Screenplay

Chu Tien-Wen, Hou Hsiao-hsien, Zhong A-Cheng, Hsieh Hai-Meng

Music

Lim Giong

Cinematography

Mark Lee Ping-Bing

Cast

Satoshi Tsumabuki, Ni Dahong, Yong Mei, Lei Zhenyu, Nikki Hsieh, Ethan Juan, Sheu Fang-Yi

Updated August 14, 2026

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