Han Hsiang Li's lush epic re-creates the fascinating life and times of Tzu Hsi, the Manchu Qing dynasty empress who rose from the ranks of Emperor Xianfeng's many concubines to become the de facto ruler of China for nearly 50 years.

• Pearl River Film Studio
• Liu Xiaoqing
• Gong Li
• Chen Daoming
• Tony Leung Ka-Fai
• Chen Ye
• Yu Liwen
• Li Yan