"Beauty Remains" revolves around Fei, a charming, youthful girl who is the illegitimate daughter of a maid and the master of the household.  Having been cast out of the house many years ago, Fei has grown up in disgrace, deprived of her social identity, her father’s love, and the family’s vast wealth.  Given a chance to return to her former home and reclaim her good name, Fei embarks on a journey seeking independence and love.  What eventually follows is the choice she must make between her hatred and love for her family. 

During the script development process, I always felt Fei should gain our sympathies easily.  But during the shoot, I struggled with Fei’s character as she loses her innocence and hurts the ones that love her most.   Is she a good person?  Are her actions justified because of her family history?  Are any of us ever justified when we act upon our feelings and beliefs?  I was torn between rushing to judge Fei and my feelings of compassion for her. 

The solution wasn’t found until we shot the final scene.  The lighting was dim, and though I couldn’t see her face through the monitor, I could feel Fei’s laughter and tears.  At that moment, I knew I had gained the emotional balance that I was looking for.

—Ann Hu