A new biopic about Shen Jilan, China's longest-serving national lawmaker, will be released in China on June 28, the third anniversary of her passing.

A photo of Shen Jilan is displayed on a big screen at the premiere of "Shen Jilan" at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, June 25, 2023. [Photo courtesy of China Movie Channel]

Shen was the only person to have served all 13 terms of the National People's Congress (NPC) since 1954. She died in 2020 at the age of 90, before completing the most recent five-year term, which started in 2018.

Shen Jilan was a remarkable figure in Chinese history. She proposed the landmark clause of "equal pay for equal work" between men and women, which was included in China's first constitution in 1954. Over the years, Shen submitted hundreds of proposals and suggestions to the NPC on issues such as poverty alleviation, rural development, education and anti-corruption, and even worked through serious illness. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the Medal of the Republic, China's highest state honor, in 2019.

In May 2020, Shen attended the third session of the 13th NPC in Beijing, which was the last time she exercised her duty. The film begins with her final journey to the legislature in 2020 and then looks back across her remarkable life.

Peng Qinghua, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the 14th NPC, praised the film highly in his speech at the premiere on Sunday for showcasing Shen's loyal, simple, dedicated and noble image and character. 

Wu Haiying, vice president and secretary of the Secretariat of the All-China Women's Federation, stated that Shen showed how a woman can achieve her potential through her own efforts, inspiring generations of Chinese women to be loyal to the Party and the country, self-reliant, and united in working for the common goal of national rejuvenation.

Actresses Yao Bingrong (left) and Yue Hong (right) pose for a photo at the premiere of "Shen Jilan" at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, June 25, 2023. Yue plays the main role in the film as the elder Shen Jilan, with Yao playing Shen during her younger years. [Photo courtesy of China Movie Channel] 

Director Hasi Chaolu said making the film was like "walking a tightrope." He and the other filmmakers were careful not to exaggerate Shen's story, but to show her ordinary side with a realistic and impartial approach.

Yue Hong, the actress who plays Shen Jilan, cherished the opportunity to portray such an exemplary figure. She said it was the "most difficult" role she ever had. Through her performance, Yue developed a deep respect for Shen, saying: "She was a mother, an ordinary person, but also a very great woman. Playing her has enriched my soul."

Family members share memories of Shen at the premiere of "Shen Jilan" held at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, June 25, 2023. [Photo courtesy of China Movie Channel]

Several of Shen's former colleagues, followers and family members were also invited to attend the premiere where they shared their feelings, memories and intimate stories. Looking at a photo of her mother on the screen, Shen's eldest daughter Zhang Lizhen called out affectionately, "Mom, you can rest assured that I'll always follow your example, carry on your legacy, and pass on your spirit!"

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