Se, Jie (aka Lust, Caution) (2007)

Set in 1938 Hong Kong and later 1942 Shanghai under the Japanese occupation, a young student (Tang Wei) is recruited into a resistance movement that plots to assassinate an important Chinese official (Tony Leung) who is collaborating with the Japanese. To this end, she eventually becomes his mistress in order to obtain necessary information but their relationship becomes complex on both their sides which causes her conflict. Directed by Ang Lee (BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN) and based on a novella by Eileen Chang, this is a rich and fascinating examination of a naive young girl who's basically turned into a whore for her country and how she is unable to sustain the necessary distance and not surrender to her emotions to accomplish her mission. The young Tang Wei gives a beautifully modulated performance capturing both the innocent young girl and the woman torn apart with inner conflict. The period look is impeccable, in large part to costume designer Lai Pan and the six art directors, handsomely shot by Rodrigo Prieto (BABEL) who imparts an authentic period feel. The haunting score is by the wonderful Alexandre Desplat. With Joan Chen as Leung's mahjong playing wife.