6. 'Only the River Flows'

A poster for "Only the River Flows." [Image courtesy of Infinite Films]

"Only the River Flows," a unique Chinese film adapted from a novel by renowned writer Yu Hua, chronicles the relentless pursuit of an obsessive detective (played by Zhu Yilong) as he hunts down a serial killer in a small town full of secrets. Written and directed by Wei Shujun, the film pays homage to the noir genre and presents a puzzle-like narrative. Set in 1990s China, it takes viewers on a structurally inventive journey, where the detective's quest for justice pushes him toward madness. This captivating and enigmatic neo-noir marked a notable comeback for Chinese cinema this year. It left audiences haunted, contemplating the intricacies of the puzzle long after the credits rolled. Wei's unique talent was also evident in his critically acclaimed 2023 film, "Ripples of Life," which combined philosophical musings with satirical reflections and critiques of the film industry.