"Runaway, Runaway" Star Lee Shu-chen, a Former Child Actress and Taiwan University Graduate, Returns to Cannes After 37 Years

The classic Taiwanese film "Runaway, Runaway" (Lu Bing Hua) is returning to the big screen in a digitally restored version, 37 years after its initial release. The movie has been selected for the "Classics" section at the 79th Cannes Film Festival, making it the only Taiwanese film chosen for the prestigious program. Lee Shu-chen, who starred as the young Gu Cha-mei and won a Golden Horse Award for Best Supporting Actress at just 11 years old, has a remarkable dual career. Beyond her acting achievements, she also graduated from the Department of Social Work at National Taiwan University. "Runaway, Runaway," adapted from the novel by "Mother of Taiwanese Literature" Chung Chao-cheng, is directed by Yang Li-kuo and written by Wu Nien-jen. Set against the backdrop of rural Taiwan in the 1960s, the film portrays the struggles of families, class disparities, and the innocent dreams of children. Upon its release in 1989, the film became a national sensation. Lee Shu-chen's natural and heartfelt performance captivated audiences, earning her not only the Golden Horse Award but also the Best Actress award at the Rimouski Film Festival in Canada the same year. Her line, "Children of the wealthy can do everything better..." remains widely remembered. Despite her early success, Lee Shu-chen prioritized her education, later attending National Taiwan University. She has continued her acting career, appearing in dramas like "Ah Bian and Ah Zhen" and receiving accolades such as the Asian Television Award for Best Recommendation in 2011 and the Jury Special Award at the Seoul International Drama Awards in 2017 for "Wang Yue." The digitally restored "Runaway, Runaway" recently moved audiences to tears during its world premiere at Cannes, followed by a standing ovation. Lee Shu-chen expressed her excitement and honor at the film's selection, feeling proud to be part of a work that conveys Taiwan's love, resilience, and tolerance to the world.

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This is such a big surprise! It is a great honor, and I am once again moved by this film in my life!