Born in Shanghai, she gained fame in China with "Little Flower" before moving to the U.S. in the early 1980s. Her Hollywood breakthrough came with "The Last Emperor" (1987), which won multiple Oscars. Known for her versatile roles, she appeared in "Twin Peaks" and films like "Heaven & Earth" and "Saving Face". Also a director, she helmed "Xiu Xiu: The Sent Down Girl". Her work spans international cinema, balancing acting and directing, contributing significantly to both American and Chinese film industries.