an unexpected pleasure a i have hear nothing about this film . shameful since it warrant have a wider audience . a wonderfully humane story with a social message gently tell and although admittedly predictable in it resolution . solidly act by the principal . beautifully photograph with muted color float against grey that capture the nostalgic tone of the film . my recent foray into chinese film ( shower and the road home and not one less ) have be an excite one that i hope to continue explore . china and it people be an amazing canvas for film maker . the king of mask can be highly recommend a a starting point for anyone similarly interested in recent chinese film .