Joan Chen
Biography
Joan Chong Chen, born on April 26, 1961, is a prominent Chinese American actress, director, screenwriter, and producer. She first gained recognition in China with her captivating role in the film *Little Flower* in 1979. However, it was her performance in the critically acclaimed film *The Last Emperor* in 1987 that brought her to the international stage, earning the film an Academy Award.
Joan's versatile acting skills have led her to take on memorable roles in various notable projects, including the cult classic television series *Twin Peaks*, the films *Red Rose White Rose*, *Saving Face*, and *The Home Song Stories*. In addition to her acting career, she has made significant contributions behind the camera, notably as the director of *Xiu Xiu: The Sent Down Girl*, showcasing her talent in storytelling and cinematic artistry.
With a career spanning several decades, Joan Chen continues to be a distinguished figure in the film industry, celebrated for her dynamic performances and impactful storytelling. Her work has left an indelible mark on both Chinese and international cinema, making her a revered artist in the world of film.
Filmography
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Montreal, My Beautiful
2026 • Feng Xia
No Other Love
2026 • Ms. Miao
What's Cooking?
2000 • Trinh Nguyen
Dìdi (弟弟)
2024 • Chungsing Wang
Saving Face
2004 • Ma
All God's Children Can Dance
2008 • Evelyn
1911
2011 • Longyu
Strangers
1992 • The Girl (Small Sounds and Tilting Shadows)
The Leap Years
2008 • Li-Ann (age 48)
Passion Island
2012 • Joanna
Dim Sum: A Little Bit of Heart
1985 • Young M.J. Player
Turtle Beach
1992 • Minou
The Wedding Banquet (2025)
2025 • May Chen
Tigertail
2020 • Yuan
The Night Stalker (1986)
1986 • Mai Wing
Ava (2020)
2020 • Toni
Golden Gate
1994 • Marilyn Song
Mao’s Last Dancer
2009 • Niang
Precious Find
1996 • Camilla Jones
The Hunted (1995)
1995 • Kirina
Heaven & Earth
1993 • Mama
Hemingway & Gellhorn
2012