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Zhang Yu

Acting Born Sep 25, 1982 Guizhou, China 24 credits

Biography

Zhang Yu (born September 25, 1982, in Guizhou, China) is a prominent actor from Mainland China, known for his transformative roles and deep commitment to independent cinema. Formerly credited under the name Zhang Xin, he is celebrated for embracing complex characters and unconventional projects, earning the reputation of being a "drama addict" within industry circles.

With over a decade dedicated to supporting and promoting independent films, Zhang has become an influential figure among contemporary Chinese actors. He rose to international attention with his powerful performance as Yu Cheng in An Elephant Sitting Still (2018), followed by widely praised roles in Dying to Survive, A Cool Fish, and Back to the Wharf. His work often explores themes of morality, societal pressure, and emotional nuance, setting him apart as a master of subtle intensity.

Zhang Yu has continued to expand his creative reach, appearing in more than 29 productions including film and television. He also serves as a part-time visual artist and script consultant, further reflecting his multifaceted approach to storytelling.

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Known for

Film

Her Story

as Xiao Ma

Full filmography

  • She's Got No Name (2025) as Dr. Liang
  • The First Shot (2024) as Jiang Xiaohai
  • Man's Inhumanity to Man (2025) as Chen Ruping / Ryohei Arakawa
  • Her Story (2024) as Xiao Ma
  • No One is Closer Than We (2026) as Li Weiyang
  • Dying to Survive (2018) as Peng Hao
  • Love, My Way (2023)
  • Nice View (2022) as Ma Yue
  • An Elephant Sitting Still (2018) as Yu Cheng
  • A Cool Fish (2018) as Hu Guangsheng
  • Manchurian Tiger (2022) as Xu Dong
  • Ciao Ciao (2017) as Li Wei
  • My People, My Homeland (2020) as Policeman
  • Snipers (2022) as Liu Wenwu
  • A Cool Fish 2 (2025) as Chen Sanjin
  • 幸福59厘米之爱有多久 (2011) as 鑫子
  • The One (2025)
  • Record Without Words (2023) as 李立忠
  • Tainted Love (2023) as Lin Zhiguang
  • The Break Away (2021)
  • Glad I Met You (2026) as Xiao Bai (voice)
  • Shanghai Dreams (2005) as Li Jun's friend
  • Pistol (2021)
  • She's Got No Name: Part Two