The Breaking Ice 2023
Anthony Chen's *The Breaking Ice* (2023) is a deeply atmospheric drama set against the stark, snow-laden streets of Yanji, a city on China's northern frontier.
Director: Anthony Chen
Cast
Zhou Dongyu
Nana
Liu Haoran
Hao Feng
Qu Chuxiao
Han Xiao
Ruguang Wei
Fugitive
Liu Baisha
Nana's Teammate
Zhao Wenhao
Coach Driver
Li Yusheng
The Groom
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Breaking Ice (2023) about?
The film follows Haofeng, a restless urbanite from Shanghai who escapes to the icy city of Yanji, where he meets Nana, a captivating tour guide, and Xiao, a frustrated restaurant worker. Together, they confront personal struggles and emotional barriers in a journey that blends melancholy with moments of warmth.
Who directed The Breaking Ice?
Anthony Chen, the acclaimed director behind films like *Ilo Ilo* and *Wet Season*, helms *The Breaking Ice* with a sensitive, introspective lens.
Who stars in The Breaking Ice?
The film stars Zhou Dongyu, Liu Haoran, and Qu Chuxiao, with Ruguang Wei, Liu Baisha, and Zhao Wenhao rounding out the ensemble cast.
Is The Breaking Ice (2023) worth watching?
While *The Breaking Ice* isn't a high-octane thriller, its quiet intensity and emotional depth make it a compelling watch for fans of character-driven dramas. The film's wintry atmosphere and thoughtful performances create a mood that's both haunting and rewarding.
How long is The Breaking Ice?
The Breaking Ice runs for 100 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
The Breaking Ice (2023): A Snowy Drama of Connection and Isolation
Anthony Chen's *The Breaking Ice* (2023) is a deeply atmospheric drama set against the stark, snow-laden streets of Yanji, a city on China's northern frontier. The film follows Haofeng, a disillusioned young man from Shanghai who escapes to the icy north, where he crosses paths with Nana, a charismatic tour guide, and Xiao, a restless restaurant worker. What begins as a fleeting weekend of camaraderie soon evolves into an intimate journey of self-discovery, as the trio confronts their buried traumas and the emotional walls that keep them trapped. Shot with a crisp, wintry visual style, the movie captures the raw, unspoken yearnings of its characters as they navigate love, loneliness, and the pursuit of liberation in a world that feels as frozen as the landscape.
With its contemplative pacing and layered performances, *The Breaking Ice* explores themes of connection and isolation with remarkable subtlety. Chen's direction weaves together moments of quiet reflection with bursts of emotional intensity, creating a film that lingers long after the credits roll. The chemistry between Zhou Dongyu, Liu Haoran, and Qu Chuxiao elevates the story, making their shared journey both compelling and deeply human.
