Article 20

Synopsis

A burned-out prosecutor takes on a controversial self-defense case that forces him to choose between safe conformity and doing what's right. Zhang Yimou's legal dramedy sparked nationwide debate about China's self-defense laws. Douban 7.5.

Overview

Article 20 (Chinese: 第二十条) is a 2024 Chinese legal comedy-drama directed by Zhang Yimou, starring Lei Jiayin and Ma Li. Named after Article 20 of China's Criminal Law — the self-defense provision — the film uses humor and heart to ask a fundamental question: should the law protect good people or bad?

Released on February 10, 2024 (Chinese New Year), the film ignited nationwide debate about self-defense laws in China. Douban rating: 7.5.

Plot Summary

Middle-aged prosecutor Han Ming (Lei Jiayin) has lost the fire of his youth. His daily life revolves around trivialities, and his biggest concern is converting his temporary posting into a permanent position. Then a case from Kang Village disrupts everything.

Villager Wang Yongqiang (Pan Binlong) has endured years of bullying and humiliation by local tyrant Liu Wenjing. When Liu attacks again and threatens to stab Wang, Wang fights back with scissors, fatally wounding Liu. Wang is charged with intentional homicide.

As Han Ming investigates, he realizes this is not a simple assault case. Was Wang acting in self-defense? Should the law protect the person who defended himself? Through a mix of sharp comedy and profound moral inquiry, the film builds to a powerful conclusion.

Cast

Cultural Significance

Article 20 is one of the rare Chinese commercial films to directly address a specific legal provision. After its release, self-defense law became a trending topic across Chinese social media. Zhang Yimou used comedy to make a serious legal question accessible, asking audiences: should good people be afraid of the law?

References

1. Douban: https://movie.douban.com/subject/36208094/
2. Wikipedia: https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/第二十条
3. IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27911