Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Zhang Yimou's 'Scare Out': Spy Thriller or State Propaganda?

2/18/2026

48 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Zhang Yimou, a Chinese filmmaker and fifth-generation director, has shifted from an arthouse darling to a state-sponsored director.
His latest film, Scare Out, depicts Shenzhen spies hunting a mole smuggling technology to Western rivals.
Critics say the film functions as pro-state propaganda, prioritizing loyalty over ideology.
It blends Mission: Impossible with Infernal Affairs and is compared to John Le Carré.

1 of 1

Story summary

Zhang Yimou, a Chinese filmmaker and fifth-generation director, has shifted from an arthouse darling to a state-sponsored director.
His latest film, Scare Out, depicts Shenzhen spies hunting a mole smuggling technology to Western rivals.
Critics say the film functions as pro-state propaganda, prioritizing loyalty over ideology.
It blends Mission: Impossible with Infernal Affairs and is compared to John Le Carré.