Zhu Shilin’s career can be grouped into three periods: the early Shanghai era, the difficult period during the Japanese Occupation and the very productive Hong Kong period. He is renowned for his sensitivity toward his times and the profound humanism in his work, formulating an unique style that embodies both Chinese classical lyricism and realist aesthetics. He was fond of simple stories set in big cities which, through astute observation and effective storytelling, offer pointed criticism and powerful comments of his times. He is a true auteur of Hong Kong and Chinese cinema.